Issue link: https://digital.insidegolfmedia.com/i/600273
W hen it comes to golf courses, you know you're in good company when the first-ever tee shot at your property is struck by one of the greatest players in history. And that's exactly what happened in 1933 when the great Bobby Jones hit the inaugural tee shot at Lakewood Country Club. Built by William Bell, one of Southern California's most respected and prolific architects who got his start during the Golden Age of golf course design, Lakewood is a 7,033-yard, old-school gem with large water features on both nines, most notably Bouton Lake that comes into play on holes 10-12. "The golf course is a classic layout with wide fairways, tall trees, and no surprises," said General Manager Joyce Shelton. "As a golfer, I am not a fan of being penalized for good tee shots. This can often happen with courses that have a lot of doglegs or blind shots. Here at Lakewood, you get what you see and see what you get." But the course still presents challenges. It's considered one of the longer layouts in the area, and you'll pay the price if you don't arrive ready to play. "If you're not striking the ball well, the length of the course will eat you up," Shelton said. In addition to its stellar layout, Lakewood Country Club is a full-service event facility that can accommodate up to 300 guests for weddings, banquests, and golf tournaments. "We have also recently introduced a weekend brunch menu," Shelton said. "It's available on Saturday and Sunday with 10 items crafted by our executive chef." Lakewood Country Club is also home to The Players Club, which offers members free practice range balls every day, access to free carts at specified times, free lessons, and more. "The Players Club is an incredible deal if you are a golfer, period," Shelton said. "Our members are really excited about the program and since our launch in June we have only been improving our benefits." OLDESCHOOL CHARM Lakewood Country Club features a classic, tree-lined layout – with plenty of modern amenities IMPROVEMENTS NEW PROJECTS ON THE HORIZON T wo player-friendly enhancement projects will soon get underway at Lakewood Country Club. First up will be creating 18 new "Family Tee" boxes built to appeal to a wider range of players. "These tees will be great for new golfers, seniors, juniors, and families to play our course without being intimidated by its challenging length," said General Manager Joyce Shelton. Early 2016 will also see renovations begin on the driving range, including a new tee line, additional hitting bays, and overhead coverage. In addition, a new cart barn and entryway are on the drawing board. "The renovation will open up our entry plaza tenfold with great views of the range and 18th green," Shelton said. Lakewood Country Club opened in 1933. FEATURED COURSE > C L I C K H E R E T O V I S I T L A K E W O O D C O U N T R Y C L U B O N L I N E F O R T E E T I M E S , T H E P L AY E R S C L U B, A N D M O R E