Legends Golf and Country Club - Old Hickory Nine

The Legends Golf & Country Club (Old Hickory Nine)

In Edmonton, I happened to be done my mid-morning dental appointment earlier than planned so at the last minute I called around looking to play 18. Finding a venue was as painless as my dental visit as the second call I made was to The Legends G&CC. They could accommodate a last-minute walk on. I hadn't played here since 2009 but I do remember the golfing was good.

The Legends G&CC, which opened in 1994, is located just a few miles north of Sherwood Park. There are three separate nines (Champions, Old Hickory and Traditions) that make up this 27-hole layout. Check in with the well-stocked pro shop was quick and efficient. The pro shop had me playing the Champions & Old Hickory Nines today. Our group got around the Champions Nine in just under two hours and I was looking forward to taking my good play to the back nine.

The Old Hickory Nine plays 2,751 yards from the Red tees, 3,121 yards from the White tees and 3,387 yards from the Blue tees. The tee boxes are large and provide golfers a level platform from which to hit from. Fairways are fairly wide targets and the rough didn't seem to be too penal. Water hazards can come into play on two of the holes. There are around only 18 bunkers of variable size and shape that are scattered throughout the nine holes. Cart paths were good, fairways were plush and mown to a nice playing height. Greens and greens complexes are of considerable size and all appeared to be well maintained. The greens were holding well struck shots and rolled consistently and at a nice pace. There are numerous undulations and swales to navigate on the greens, so if you're looking for birdies, you'll need to pay attention. Holes 3 and Hole 5 afford scenic views of the course from their elevated tees. Pace of play was steady and our group completed our back nine in just over two hours.

I was pretty pleased with my round at The Legends. My 7 FIR, 11 GIR and 35 putts added up to a good score of 78. The Legends is good value, $60 for 18 holes with a cart. It's amazing how much better an after-round beer tastes when one is playing well.

I feel Legends is one of the best values in the Edmonton area. The Champions 9 with the Old Hickory 9 are to me a good test of golf even from the Whites. No forced carries unless you go for the green on the Champions 9. Play early as all 3 nines get busy in the afternoon.