Links Corner Course Database ID Number - 2104 |
Release Date |
CRZ Filesize |
Par |
Course Length |
2012-11-12 |
22,508 bytes |
69 |
5961 yards |
Type |
Style |
CRZ Filename |
REAL |
PARKLAND |
nc1.crz |
Course ID |
Course Key |
04df2efef4c345118ff2946d26d94a8f |
3f68cafdb74b6f055418d5bba06196c4 |
COURSE NOTES |
This Course lies on the Berkshire Downs overlooking Newbury Racecourse and was originally opened in 1873. Although relatively short by modern standards, there are a number of challenging "risk and reward" holes and the Course is great to play for both Visitors and Members.
Happy golfing,
John Brooks |
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CLIPNOTES by Ben Bateson (ousgg) |
Description Real, forest course |
Location Berkshire |
Conditions Quality control on the greens is mixed, and I'd stick with M*/S* |
Concept 7/10 A typically cosy and clean course from John Brooks, Newbury is one of England's oldest courses, and the age is evident in the way
the holes chart their course over and around the hillside, with few of the modern gimmicks. It works extremely well, and the difficulty
gradient has dated very nicely, substituting good fairway shape and trees for out-and-out hazarding. Several raised greens dissipate
the need for too many bunkers. |
Appearance 5/10 Almost an example of John's stock in trade, the course has a few good aspects (clean textures, no obvious mesh flaws) combined with
a few old problems: the panorama being a fraction too low and some low-res planting. The treeline has been very well managed to
look both authentic and reasonably clone free, but the course needs something special to lift it above the merely average. |
Playability 7/10 Like all John's courses, there is an inestimable sense of locale and intimacy that you just don't get from the fictional creations. A few
extras - location-specific sound planting, a good Readme and hole previews, and perhaps even a recognisable landmark or two -
would be a perfect finishing touch, but even without them, it's definitely possible to picture the real thing. |
Challenge 8/10 A pleasantly stiff test, this one, especially given the shortage of Par 5 holes. The front nine, in particular, use the hillside excellently and
rare will be the opportunity to set up a genuine putt for birdie. There are a few more target-driven holes on the inward half, and it's not
inconceivable that a shot or two will be picked up, but forget about trying to walk all over this course. |
Technical 5/10 A routine but standard technique has allowed John to turn out a succession of enjoyable courses. However, there are continually problems
with pin numbers and positioning, and it certainly feels as if the greens receive less attention than the landscaping as a whole. |
Overall |
A course where it's possible to appreciate and enjoy the original challenge. With
some shine on the Links port, it could be superb. |
32/50 |
Please remember that Clipnote reviews are the opinion of one person and do not constitute an 'Official' Links Corner review of the course. |
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