L.A. COUNTY SPOTLIGHT
> C L I C K H E R E T O V I S I T W H I T T I E R N A R R O W S O N L I N E F O R T E E T I M E S , T O U R N A M E N T I N F O R M AT I O N A N D M O R E
SHAKING
THINGS UP
American Golf takes the
reins at Whittier Narrows
W
hittier Narrows is a recre-
ational area with more
than 400 acres of wetlands
bordering the San Gabriel River. But
for most Southern Californians, the
name is most associated with a 5.9
earthquake centered there in 1987.
American Golf, which just took
over management of the course on
March 7, promises to shake up the
way golfers think about this facility,
which is comprised of two courses,
an 18-hole, 6,824-yard track designed
by William F. Bell and a 2,713-yard
9-hole track. While the property has
long offered a secluded experience in
a heavily urbanized area of L.A.
County, there hasn't been a great deal
of work on it in more than 40 years.
"It's ready for a big-time make-
over," said new General Manager
Steve Donar, who came aboard when
American Golf took over operations.
"We're not sure of the details yet, but
we'll definitely be focusing on the pro
shop, the restrooms and the club-
house in general, as well as some
course improvements."
The course is long enough from the
tips to challenge most golfers, but
what really makes it a test are the
small greens, which means "accuracy
is definitely a premium," Donar said.
That inherent challenge will re-
main the same, as will its scenery.
With the foothills of the San Gabriel
Mountains serving as a backdrop to
the north, Donar said, "The views are
just absolutely amazing."
The Rosemead course is accessible
from the 10, 605 and 60 freeways.
"It's really convenient to get to and
we'd like to see more players taking
advantage of that access during rush
hour," he said. "If drivers are stuck in
traffic, they can pull off and take ad-
vantage of the short course or driving
range, which is lit until 10 p.m."
Green fees for the 18-hole course
are $27 on weekdays and $36.50 on
weekends, and fees for the 9-hole
course are $17.50 on weekdays and
$22.75 on weekends.
The San Gabriel Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop.
JOIN THE CLUB!
O
ne new perk at Whittier Narrows
is The Players Club. For $39.99 a
month, members get free cart fees
after 11 a.m. if playing 18 holes and
free cart fees anytime on the 9-hole
course. They also receive $20 in range
balls daily, access to golf clinics and
one free beverage per day. Consider-
ing cart fees are $13 on the 18-hole
course, this package is quite a deal if
golfers play even a couple of times a
month.
CLICK HERE for more.
GAME IMPROVEMENT
