We don’t want to brag too much, but Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club has one of the most unique golf courses in the state — if not the country and world. Not only are there rolling hills with up and downhill approaches, but the placement of homes throughout the community gives a sense of peace and solitude, prompting even the most seasoned golfers to recall the novelty of their favorite sport. And while you may be hard-pressed to find a tribute hole or two on most courses, Golden Ocala has eight, paying homage to Augusta National, Baltustrol, The Old Course-St. Andrews, Royal Troon and Muirfield, among others. They bring back memories for veteran golfers — not to mention recreate magical moments experienced by pros like Jordan Spieth. So, before you embark on this historically driven course — either again or for the very first time — there are a few things you must know.

Misconceptions and Advantages

While Golden Ocala is a member-based community, please do not let that discourage you or anyone you know from playing our course. Whether you’re staying on the property via a Royal Shell rental or your local club is a member of the Golf Business Network, you qualify!

And with seven setups, ranging from 4,440 to 7,063 yards, the course is fun for golfers of all skill levels. Our pace of play is generally under four hours, so everyone has plenty of time to enjoy.

If you need to brush up on your game before tee time, just make your way to practice holes 19 and 20 — recently ranked in the Top 50 Practice Facilities within private clubs across the U.S.

Advice from the Director of Golf

As with other sports, golf has rules that apply across the board. But for Golden Ocala, there are tips tailored to our surfaces. According to Director Ryan Gray, the putting surfaces can be difficult to read, so look at both sides of your putt and be aware of your surroundings — especially at hole #8, as it breaks more to 80^th Avenue than most golfers think.

And that’s not all:

• #3 Tee Ball — Always take the club that will not reach the bushes on the right, off the tee.
• #4 — Always go for the middle of the green, as that’s the biggest part to hit.
• #7 — Do not always hit the driver to score. Instead, be mindful of fairway placement.
• #11 (as suggested by Tiger Woods) — Always hit over the center bunker to avoid rolling your ball into the water.
• #13 — Always aim a bit to the left of the tee.
• #17 (as suggested by Troy Glaus) — Hit as far left of the tee and as far right of the green as possible.

For more tricks of the trade, call the Golden Ocala Golf Shop at (352) 671-3933.