Standing on the first tee, I asked the starter what his favorite hole is.
He said, "None of them, they all are hard."
He followed up with, "Most people struggle with the first hole.
He smiled and parted with a "good luck."
The first hole, par 5, sets the stage for the next 18 holes, dramatic views and drastic elevation changes. Perched high above the former rock quarry you can see 5-6 holes. While soaking up the breath taking view, I quickly noticed a few hazards - hills, ponds, long grass and wooded areas. To start your round off right, keep the ball in play by hitting the generous landing area. Big hitters could reach the lower area but it is tight. (Leave your ego in the bag and hit a 3 wood or hybrid if need be).
Morningstar provides 5 sets of tees , with the back tees playing at almost 6800 yards. The fairways and landing areas are generous although a few holes are visually intimidating.
At one of the lowest spots on the course, the 9th hole is framed in with a steep gradient on the left with a long pond running the length of the hole on the right. To make it feel even tighter the fairway narrows after the landing area creating a very visually intimating hole. Take a deep breath, forget about the water and swing smooth. (The advice worked for half our foursome)
The 16th is the longest par four on the course with a blind shot headed up hill. (429 yards from the blacks; 402 from blues). Aim for the left trap and if you hit your target it will set you up for a clear second shot. Spray right and a lone tree may obstruct your approach to the green. The closing stanza is a long elevated par 5 that will give you one last look at some spectacular views.
To close out a good round stay left the whole way as you head homeward bound. Following that advice will make the hole shorter and provide you the best angle into the elevated green.
The nineteen hole, Hickory Sticks Pub and Restaurant, is a spacious pub that serves a wide variety of sandwiches, burgers and wraps.
For more information visit www.golfthestar.com
S77 W26285 Prairieside Dr. Waukesha, WI 53189 Phone 262-662-1600
