This Granddaddy Never Gets Old
Golfers have been teeing it up in Myrtle Beach for 91 years, and the course that welcomed those first players – Pine Lakes Country Club – continues to be among the area’s most popular layouts.
Affectionately known as “The Granddaddy,” Pine Lakes, once renowned for its Rolls Royce golf carts and serving mimosas at the turn, charms players with its rich history and timeless design.
— In celebrating its 90th birthday in 2017, Pine Lakes decided to turn back the clock. Bag drop attendants are again greeting players dressed in kilts and tartan bow ties. In the spring of 2018, the course resumed serving mimosas in champagne flutes, and this fall guests will again be offered their choice of a mimosa or a six-ounce cup of clam chowder. The decision to reclaim the traditions of Pine Lakes has been wildly popular.
— Just as 2017 marked the course’s 90th birthday, 2018 is the 10-year anniversary of architect Craig Schreiner’s renovation of the course. Using aerial photos of Robert White’s original design, Schreiner restored the essence of White’s work and golfers have responded.
— Don’t mistake this venerable Granddaddy for being a pushover. The most commonly played tees – set No. 3 – play 6,305 yards and the course is a par 70. The fairways are generous but with only two par 5s and a quartet of par 4s that play over 400 yards, Pine Lakes presents a formidable challenge.
— The hardest hole at Pine Lakes, particularly for mid to high handicappers, is the 426-yard (No. 3 tees) third hole (pictured). It’s long and water on the right squeezes the fairway over the final 100 yards, before running alongside the green. A 250-yard drive leaves a 175-yard approach and there isn’t a lot of room to lay up. Bogey isn’t a bad score. Easiest hole? It’s either the 334-yard fourth hole, giving you a chance to make up anything you may have lost on No. 3, or the 145-yard 11th hole. The par 3 is Pine Lakes’ most photographed hole, particularly in the spring when the perimeter of the green is ringed by blooming azaleas.
— If you want to play The Granddaddy, the Prime Times Rewards package is the way to go, and available through a number of providers including Paradise Resort. The stay-and-play offer allows your group to choose between Founders Group International’s 22 courses and everyone will receive a $100 gift card good for use in clubhouse restaurant, pro shop and beverage cart. The package is a no-brainer.
