Christopher de Laat, CPGA, PCS (Director of Golf & Food Services)
In the late summer of 1978, Mayfield opened its first 6 holes. We humbly began with open fairways and trees sparsely scattered over the terrain. What stood out then is still our pride: our greens are always receptive. By the fall of 1979, our first 9 holes were completed, and by the summer of 1986 we were ready to open our 18-hole course. I vividly remember the day we opened the completed course. My father stood proudly on the front steps of the clubhouse, as much as to say he had accomplished his dream. The picture on our scorecard recreates that moment in time. If you look closely at the front rail, when you visit our clubhouse, you will see the years of wear from Dad’s arm.
The original front 9, now the Red Course, is sprawled over open terrain. Those once sparsely scattered trees now define the boundaries of their fairways. The Red Course plays the easiest of all three courses, but it also presents a number of challenging par 3s to keep even the best of players honest. Over the years’ my three favorite holes on this course became 7, 8, and 9. I can remember my father coaxing us to play with him in the summer twilight. This coaxing remains a tradition to this very day. Even now in his 90’s, Dad is often the last player to leave the course.
The original back 9, now the White Course, is the most picturesque of all three courses. In particular, the final three holes track through the heavily wooded valley. My favorite hole is the 7th. This elevated par 3 provides a beautiful panoramic view of the valley. In the early evening, when the ground is slightly warmer than the air, a light mist creeps over the ground. If you are willing to take a few moments to enjoy the sunset, this is a wonderful place to escape.
The new nine, our Blue Course, is completely different from the architecture of the original two courses. This nine sits geographically higher than the other two, which lets the westerly summer winds affect it more—challenging players to keep their shots low to maximize control and distance. The greens are elevated, and the fairways defined by large mounds. Among the most challenging holes are the 5th and 6th—two great back-to-back par 3s. In particular, the 6th hole challenges good players to play a left to right shot shape: the only reasonable approach to attack the well protected back right section of the green.
We are very pleased to offer courses that are suitable for all levels of play. We continue to invest in the shape and quality of the facility such that you can enjoy your round and our country hospitality.
