Ballyowen Golf Club at Crystal Springs Resort, Hamburg, New Jersey
7,094/4,903 Yards
Ballyowen models itself as a Scottish links-style course that is very pleasant to walk with a caddie. Although the skill and experience level of the caddies there have gone down in the past year or so, they try hard and do afford the player a chance to walk this lovely rolling terrain. There are only three moderately hilly holes (nos.9, 12 and 18); the biggest challenges to walking being some of the green-to-next tee paths on several holes that do have some pitch to them. The fairways are generally wide; the holes are moderately long and there are a lot great views.
Walking is the best way to appreciate this lovely layout. In the afternoon, around 5 PM a bagpiper adds to the enjoyment of this course. After walking this course on a warm day with a “senior” golfer friend, we both felt invigorated, and my playing partner who was apprehensive about walking thanked me for talking him into doing it. In sum, Ballyowen is highly recommended for walking golfers.
Review by Joseph Franceski
