If you love golf like I do and are going to be in the Tampa area anytime soon, this one’s for you. Fox Hollow is one of the top three public-access courses in west central Florida and is one of the last courses designed and built by the legendary Robert Trent Jones, Sr. – one of the most prolific and innovative golf course designers of all time.
Jone’s par-71 championship course is as picturesque as it is playable and a wel-come respite from the pancake-flat layouts found elsewhere in Florida.
I love the rolling fairways, gentle undulations and abundant water hazards, as well as the excellent bunkering. All 18 tree-lined holes feature five sets of tees and offer new challenges every time you play here. Water comes into play on 11 holes and Jones’ other signature feature – plentiful, pro-found and penal bunker complexes – abound.
I’m always working on my short game and Fox Hollow’s large, sloping greens are especially fast so putting can be quite tricky. But fear not, because the 10,800 square foot putting green offers plenty of opportunities to practice before tee time.
All 18 greens, as well as the mammoth putting green, utilize SeaDwarf, Seashore Paspalum turf which is currently being used by just about every top-end Resort and Private Club across the southeast U.S. Pretty nice for a semi-public course. In addition to the putting green, you can hone your swing at the grass driving range which is equipped with over 25 hitting stations. There’s also a nice chipping green with a practice bunker.
FYI: Central Florida Magazine says the 18th hole, with its forced carry off the tee and water running the entire length of the hole on both sides of the fairway, is simply the “Best Par 4 in Florida.” Trust me, a slice or a hook on this hole can take you out in a nano second.
Bottom line: If you love golf, grab your sticks and head on up to Fox Hollow. It’s an absolute must play when you’re in Tampa
You can reserve your tee time online at foxhollowgolfclub.com or just call 737-376-6333
Fore!
