Belk Park Golf Course

I think this was the first time in my golfing career, I lost interest in golf during the round. After waiting 5-10 minutes on every shot, hole 17 was the hole where I truly lost interest. There were 3 groups on the 17th tee box – almost 4 groups. Holes 2 & 3 are very difficult and they always set the tone of slow play throughout the day.

The fairways were not good either. So many holes (especially in the landing areas), the drainage is so poor. There are numerous areas where there is no grass. Examples would be holes: 2, 4, 5, 7, 9 & 13.

The greens did look great, however, when you walked on them, they felt spongy. They were some of the slowest greens I’ve ever putted on. On hole 3, there were sections where tree roots were exposed on the green.

The tee boxes were not in the best shape either. Uneven, dirt patches, clover, etc.

The cart paths have never been repaired. Some of the roughest you will experience.

The only saving grace to this course was their price of $47. It was the top public course in the St. Louis area back before the mid-eighties. It also has some good design, especially the back nine.

It was really slow play but 2 guys passed us on the turn w/out asking us even though they couldn’t play any faster because of groups in front of us. Then they decided on 16 to hit like 5 or 6 balls into the green and chip and putt them. We called them out on that and they said they had to wait anyway so why not practice?

But the course was in pretty good condition.

It rained the day before, so it was cart path only. A lot of the fairways had standing water and didn’t get much roll.

Had some challenging holes, everything was in great condition, the individuals working check-in were a great help and very friendly, the people prices for food and drink were very reasonable, and luckily played with a some great people.

Pace of play was steady. Condition of the course was top notch.

It has always been a fun challenging course. With the addition of zoysia fairways a few years ago, it is one of the best values in the St. Louis area.