NOVEMBER 29, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 12 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Elliott’s Custom Golf 712 N 77 Sunshine Strip #20 Harlingen, TX 78550 (877) 428-5448 • elliott@customclubs.net SKYTRACK LAUNCH MONITOR Improve your game and receive instant and real-time 3D shot analysis and ball-flight data. Identify strengths, weaknesses & dispersion • Bag Mapping to select the right clubs on the course • Wedge Matrix to master short game Five Star Customer Ratings - Google Reviews COMPUTERIZED CUSTOM CLUB FITTING pandemic, it has become harder and harder to find hidden gems on the golf course. Now, they’re precious gems. This year, we will be running a three-part series introducing these gems in three categories – lower, middle, and upper Valley. These hidden gems are recommended by the golf pros, or regulars, at the golf courses. Hidden gems, diamonds in the rough, unexpected surprises — like finding an extra $20 that was forgotten in the pocket of a pair of pants — can have a profound positive effect on one’s day. Similarly, golf courses have some gems of their own. Sure, they have their “signature holes,” usually the GOLF From pg. 1 most difficult, most scenic, or most unique (most of the times all three) hole on the course. But hidden away are those other holes that bring a smile to a golfer’s face (sometimes dread). Some of the courses in the Lower Rio Grande Valley that often appear on top of Winter Texans’ favorite places to play are no different. And, over the years have made some changes to not only improve the course but also have made some of their gems all “shiny and new again.” SOUTH PADRE ISLAND GOLF CLUB Whoever said beauty is only skin deep never had South Padre Island Golf Club in mind. This course, which should be the crème de la crème based on location alone, was working hard on becoming just “hidden.” Now, after years of labor, new owners, and a new vision (and renovations galore), have revived this course into returning to its glory days. It truly is a gem, and not hidden anymore. Eighteen rebuilt greens, an updated, well, new irrigation system and the addition of “lots of grass” are key upgrades that add to the best golf experiences in South Texas. The glorious view alone overlooking the Laguna Madre and the island is a mental photo you want to put on your wall for all to see. As expected on a beach course, the layout is challenging, and the wind can make things “break your club over your knee” challenging. The course has consistently worked on improving its cart paths, sand traps, natural beauty, and other areas in recent years. If you haven’t played here recently, it’s worth checking out again. You may end up out there more than you think – it’s that beautiful, it’s truly a gem among gems and only getting better. LONG ISLAND VILLAGE, PORT ISABEL This one could still be considered “hidden,” but it doesn’t in any way lower the value of this gem. In fact, it is the exact definition of a hidden gem. Tucked away off the main route in Port Isabel, this par-3 golf course is special. The course offers many activities within their “village” to guests, renters, and residents which include: 18hole, 3 par (Walking) Golf course, mini-golf course, shuffleboard, tennis, billiards, basketball, volleyball, table-top tennis, an outdoor and indoor pool, jacuzzis and, depending on when, you go, a plethora of seasonal activities. If you’re not a golf fan, this is a virtual “mall of fun on the golf course.” If you are a golfer, well, welcome to one of the most difficult layouts you will face. Actually, the biggest thing to deal with on this course isn’t the layout, pin placement or where the tees are set up, South Padre Island Golf Club. Long Island Village.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTczOTk5Mg==