Ludlow, VT – It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. Envision golden fescue that waves gently in the breeze, lush green rolling fairways and impeccably manicured grounds. Okemo Valley Golf Club truly is a golf experience unrivaled in New England. Breathtaking views of Okemo's trail network highlight the entire 18-hole course layout.

"When the sun is shining on the course, it's one of the prettiest places on earth," comments Jim Remy, Director of Golf/GM at Okemo Valley Golf Club. "The experience will challenge not only your game, but your idea of what a really great golf facility should be."

The character of the course is unique as it encompasses classic bent grass fairways, tees and greens and features a variety of rolling hills with moderate elevation changes that occur gradually, keeping the course walkable. Its rolling fairways and strategically placed bunkers invite golfers to out duel the course by using a different approach to every hole. The greens are sweeping and fairly sculpted to reward short-game specialists. Four sets of tee boxes insure that all players can enjoy the course, while providing a challenge for the accomplished golfer. Lush green fairways, forgiving rough, well-placed hazards and manicured greens offer a challenge for golfers of all skill levels, without the blind spots that are characteristic of most mountain courses. While truly punishing features are few, risk-reward is the mantra, along with course knowledge.

Some Course "Know How"

Holes #1 and #2 can pose a fairly tough opening if a wayward tee shot is hit. But, a shot down the center of either fairway will have you perfectly positioned for an approach shot into the green. Be wary of the fairway bunkers, a drive too far to the right might get blocked out. Don't be stymied by the large tree to the left of the 2nd hole - it's also the #1 handicap hole.

The par 3, 8th hole has a magnificent view of Okemo Mountain and can play two clubs longer when played into the prevailing wind. If you have to miss the green, miss it to the right, but don't be long.

A dog leg right and strategically placed fairway hazards is characteristic of the par-5, 7th hole. It's reachable in two shots for a possible eagle, but the second shot is played into a small and elevated green. Be wary if you are positioned above the pin.

The par 5, 11th hole has a forgiving fairway unless you spray it right or left into the trees. So why does this hole seem to cause so much trouble for the average player? Fairway and greenside bunkers guard a small green that you only get a glimpse of. Course knowledge can pay off on this hole.

An elevated tee sets the stage for the long par 4, 15th hole. It's also the highest elevation on the course. The two-tiered fairway is forgiving, but the green can offer some of the most challenging putts on the course.

The water-wary need to brace themselves for the majestic 17th hole with its challenging natural wetland setting and well placed hazards. The par-3 measures 213-yards from the tips and can be very challenging given the multiple contours of the green.

The par 4 finishing hole is reachable in two and can be forgiving if you hit an errant tee shot. But, eight strategically positioned bunkers surround the large and undulating green.

The 19th hole can be the most gratifying of all after an incredible day on the course. A scenic outdoor terrace offers spectacular views of the course layout and mountain terrain. Soups, salads, hearty sandwiches, a wide selection of appetizers, along with Apres-golf cocktails are served daily on the terrace and inside the gracious clubhouse.

The facilities, services and amenities at the Okemo Valley Golf Club are unmatched by any other golf course in the area. It’s a signature for quality in the Okemo Resort family that continues to set the standard in the industry – it's truly “The Okemo Difference”.

Okemo Valley Golf Club is receiving high acclaim for its exceptional golf course and facility. Golf For Women Magazine rated Okemo Valley Golf Club one of the “Top 50 Courses for Women” in 2003 based on the course playability and “female-friendly" amenities. Golf Week Magazine voted Okemo Valley Golf Club as the top Modern Design Course in Vermont” and Golf Digest nominated Okemo Valley as Best New Course in America. Also home to the Vermont PGA Championship and Qualifier for the U.S. Women's Public Links Championship.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Pam Cruickshank, Director of Public Relations
Okemo Mountain Resort
Ludlow, VT 05149
(802) 228-1947 or pamc@okemo.com