NOT FOUND: blackhorse.jpgI hope everyone has enjoyed their break with the rain. I know recently there were plenty of occasions where I thought I would be able to get out and play a round of golf, only to watch inclement weather ruin that time. I even went so far as to plan on playing in the rain and bringing my rain gear only to find the winds so unplayable that any attempt at a round was futile.
Well, I did get a round in and found a new course to add as a favorite: Blackhorse in Seaside, CA. Blackhorse is part of the Blackhorse/ Bayonet Golf Club and is located just minutes outside of Monterey. These courses are truly the hidden gems of the area. Like its companion course, Black Horse is steeped in golf and military history. Originally opened in 1964, the golf course was created on the site of the former Fort Ord by General Robert B. McClure, who christened it in honor of the 11th Calvary Regiment (nicknamed “Black Horse”) that was then stationed nearby at The Presidio of Monterey.
The golf course has recently undergone an upgrade and is in near perfect condition. The fairways are lush and trimmed clean. The rough, while penal, is open to clean lies and shots to the greens. The greens are firm and fast. They roll true and could be some of the best greens I have ever played. That is saying a lot. Blackhorse ranges from 7024 yds at the tips to 5084 from the ladies’ tees, with two sets of tees in between. The course will definitely cause you to use all the clubs in your bag. Playing from the tips, you can use a driver on almost every hole, including one of the par 3s which measures 247 yds. If you can shape your shots off the tee you will have very favorable approaches to the greens. This course gives you some intimidating shots to both start and end your round as both are daunting par 5s. The eighteenth is especially so, as it measures 605 yds from the tips and is the toughest hole on the back nine.
I found the staff very nice and eager to help. When I arrived, the attendant told me which course was playing tougher today (Blackhorse) and which one had more traffic (Bayonet) to help me make my choice in playing. The prices are incredible for the area as they run from $38 at twilight to $100 for primetime, including a cart. Lately there have been plenty of specials going so you will be able to play for significantly less. I played for $38, with a cart, at 1PM. This left plenty of time to finish and enjoy the round. If you are down in the Monterey area and want to play quality golf without spending $100s, take a venture to Bayonet and Blackhorse; you won’t be disappointed.