Uvalde Memorial Park Golf Course

Originally opened around 1950, Uvalde's fun little 9-hole course has recently been upgraded to offer the complete 18-hole experience. It makes for an interesting combination, as architect Jep Willies reworked the hole combinations to integrate the new construction rather than tacking on a separate addition. The new areas are more modern and have immature trees, giving the course a links-style feel-the old areas have mature trees that get in the way, making it a more traditional, keep-it-in-the-fairway type of course. The new holes have bigger greens as well.

On the front, No. 2 is a 400-yard par 4 with trees on the left and lined by thick rough. A good tee shot is imperative on this hole if you have hopes of reaching the green in regulation.

On the back, No. 10 has a big lake coming into play off the tee, and No. 11 has a small pond in the fairway about 250 yards from the tee. You'll need to hit them well here. Hole 16 is the most difficult: a gnarly dogleg par 4 with a severely sloping green.

Other notes: During the recent build-out, archaeologists discovered Indian artifacts. PGA Tour veteran Miller Barber stopped by one year and won the annual Fourth of July Tournament. The pro shop is small and handles the basics. There is no grill-only snack foods are available. The course does not serve alcohol but allows golfers to bring their own until they start selling cold beer again.

Getting there : This course is located on Garden Street in Uvalde, 75 miles west of San Antonio.