Golf 2010

Robert Gilbert

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  • The signature 17th hole at Clemson’s Walker Course
    The signature 17th hole at Clemson’s Walker Course
    There’s no doubt you’re in Clemson when you stand on the tee box of the signature 17th hole. The green and bunkers form a Tiger Paw, referencing the school’s mascot, against the backdrop of Lake Hartwell.
 

There's Orange on the Golf Course

Posted 5/17/2010 2:08:00 PM
As a diehard South Carolina Gamecock, it truly pains me to say this, but I’ve actually found something I really like about Clemson University — the beautiful Walker Golf Course.

Home to the Tiger’s golf team (2003 NCAA Champions), the D.J. DeVictor course is a great balance of value, beauty and challenge. First the value. At $45 (with cart) on the weekend, the Walker course represents one of the best deals in the upstate. While the front nine, with nearly every hole surrounded by wooded areas, is beautiful in its own right, the back nine is where you’ll really be blown away.

The Walker course finishes in style, with the final five holes, including the stellar 17th, winding along the shores of Lake Hartwell. From the moment you step on the 17th tee box, it’s obvious you’re looking at the course’s signature hole. Set against the stunning backdrop of Hartwell and its wooded shores in the distance, the green and a string of bunkers behind it form the school’s trademark Tiger Paw.

Don’t let the beautiful scenery distract you, though. You’re going to need every bit of focus to get around this tough layout. Forced carries and deep swales are used effectively to keep even the most consistent golfers on their toes. In terms of difficulty, the standout is the long par-4 9th hole, where strategically placed water forces a lot of golfers (myself included) to play for bogey.

Located on Clemson’s campus, the Walker course is easily accessible by Interstate 85 and definitely worth a visit -- even if orange and purple aren't your favorite colors.