Finally it is time to melt the ice and snow from my golf clubs and travel southward to kick off my 2011 golf season.  Currently I am in New Bern, North Carolina, where I just finished 18 holes at Harbour Pointe Golf Course.  Although the grass and greens are still in hibernation mode this far north (see pictures), the course was very enjoyable to play.  There are 4 sets of tees ranging from the gold at 6577 yards (slope 130) to the red at 4988 yards (slope 120).  (Blue at 6094 yd; White at 5642yd)

The golf courses in this area have suffered from the overall economic downturn, and the fact that many golfers by-pass the area as they travel another 150 miles southward to Myrtle Beach, have created a situation where local golfers have these courses to themselves.

The Harbour Pointe course is one of two golf courses in an older resort and developed community (Fairfield Harbour).  The area also provides an entry point to the Neuse River, leading to Pamlico Sound.  Over the last few years both courses have seen closures, but now the Harbour Pointe course is available for public play from Wednesdays through Sundays. It has minimal staff and services but is very attractive.

At $20 for 18 holes with cart, this is a very “Price Friendly” golf course.  While we have been here the course has received very little play. We have had the entire course nearly to ourselves.  Other reasonably priced golf courses are also nearby.

About 40 miles to the south is Atlantic Beach, Emerald Beach, and the well-known fishing ports of Beaufort and Moorehead City.  

We will be heading farther south over the next few days and be in Florida later this week.  Stay tuned.

Hit ‘em straight!

Phil Lawrence