Links at Gettysburg
 Like "Pickett's Charge" we recently descended upon Gettysburg Pennsylvania to do battleat The Links at Gettysburg. Since it's opening in 1999 the course has produced a reputation for both exquisite design and test of game.Renowned course designer Lindsey Ervin put his best effort forward by creating and working with features that includes steep, 35' rock cliffs, stone-lined tee boxes, red rock cart paths, lakes, and waterfalls. As reputation would have it, all we previously heard was only a glimpse of a course that is one you have to experience first hand to truly appreciate. The beauty and design of the course is just one part of the overall "Links" experience. Carved out of the indigenous red rock formations, mature hardwood forests and meandering streams, the course is both a treat to see and play.  On a cool and windy late April day we arrived early at the course to warm up and made good use of the well- appointed practice area.
As our group approached the first tee, I couldn't help but admire the lush green of the bent grass fairways and thick second cut rough the course offers. The Links requires attention to course managementand has several holes requiring proper club selection both off the tee and with approach shots to the green. Amigos favorite Hole:On a course made of favorites we decided that the number-8 323-yard Par 4 was ours. This hole is the undeniable essence of true "risk reward". From the tee, the long stretch or red rock aligns three quarters of the entire right side of the fairway with a long fairway bunker guarding the deepest part of the fairway as you approach the green.  Depending on which set of tees you play, the green is reachable for long hitters. But be very careful there is little to no bail out room on either side of the fairway.The safe play is five or three wood off the tee leaving a short wedge into a green with a medium undulation.
All in all our round was a tremendous experience and we couldn't think of a course and venue better to treat yourself or regular foursome to the next time you decide to venture away from the home course. But before you make the tee time make sure your game is ready. The Links at Gettysburg welcomes all, but requires more than a "hacker" to "battle the Links".
Review Date:
04/25/2004
Course review ratings are conducted on a five point scale. ( 1 = Double Bogey 3 = Par 5 = Eagle)
Tees:
The five sets of tees offer a length for every skill set and at over 7000 yards at the tips to a nice challenge for even the scratch golfer. Each tee box was staggered well and nicely maintained.
Fairways:
The most beautiful set of fairways you will see anywhere. Flawless in all aspects of design and maintenance. The dedication of the grounds crew and superintendent of the course really show.
Rough:
Two cuts of rough with a second cut that is thick and punishing in areas. You want to stay in the fairway at the Links because wayward shots and battling the rough could make for a long day.
Traps:
Great placement both in the fairways and around the green. The fairway bunkers are staggered to effect every tee option and even due to heavy rain the night before there was no standing water anywhere.
Greens:
Very nicely shaped with both tiered levels and some with subtle undulation. With superb feel but not overwhelming speed all the greens seemed to roll true and fair.
Amenities:
Outstanding Clubhouse and Pro shop. The "Red Rock Grille" offers indoor and outdoor dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is a nice location for all pre round or post round festivities. The large veranda and outdoor grill overlooks the 18th green and is a good venue for both charity and corporate outings. Full grass range with practice area for both chipping and putting is available.
Staff Services:
Everyone in the Links staff was accommodating and nice during our round. There was no beverage cart attendant on the course during our round.
Pace of Play:
On a cool windy day with impending rain, most of the groups around us seemed to have bagged there round. We had no issue with pace during our entire round.
Overall Average:
4.8, Birdie Course
Outstanding Course, must play recommendation
The GolfinAmigos would like to thank Mr. Jim Picking the Manager of the Links of Gettysburg for aiding us in setting up the review.
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Location:
601 Mason Dixon Road, Gettysburg PA 17325
Tee Time Phone:
717-359-8000
Course Type:
Public
*The opinions expressed in this course review are those of the individual reviewer(s) and do not reflect the editorial opinion of
www.GolfinAmigos.com
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