North at NCR Country Club

The South is a test of golf in every way you're supposed to be tested. Strong par 3's, great bunkering, and challenging par 4's.

The North is the lesser known of NCRs two 18's but its a bit more playable/enjoyable than the South for novice golfers. I love a good links style course and this provides for a good time.

The Good: The South Course at NCR Country Club is Midwest parkland golf perfection at its finest, which very interesting topography and some of the most challenging, beautiful green complexes I have ever played. This mid 1950’s Dick Wilson Dayton, OH area design has a “Dubsdread on steroids” feel to it with its large trees and demanding sightlines, but it’s very playable off the tee and I didn’t find the greens too outrageous. Has one of the best quartets of Par-5’s that I’ve played in the Midwest and a very fun, diverse group of Par-3’s. Unpretentious staff and extremely nice clubhouse with expansive bar and outdoor dining area. Practice facilities were comprehensive with large putting green right by the first tee and driving range. GPS on the carts was a nice touch. Very good pace of play despite being fairly crowded during a weekday afternoon round.

The Bad: If I have to nitpick, I am not a huge fan of so many dogleg right Par-4’s. A few of the pin placements were a little overboard, but considering the severity of the green complexes, this makes sense. The 18th hole is a bit of a dud compared to some of the other private clubs that I’ve recently played. A few trees could afford to be tomahawked.

The Verdict: NCR (South) is the best course in the great state of Ohio that I’ve played out of 50 or so total golf courses. A brilliant overall experience that has a great “walk in the park” aura. Several that I respect says that it meets or exceeds the experience at its neighboring Moraine Country Club.

Best Hole: The signature Par-5 10th hole is an absolute gem. While benign off the tee, there is a great reveal about 200 yards out to a downhill green guarded by several huge bunkers. Bring your camera! Doesn’t hurt that I nearly holed out and made birdie!