DIAMOND BACK GOLF COURSE

Written by: Julie Hart
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It is well known that Florida is the number 1 golf destination in the world. Whether you are a complete beginner or an advanced golfer there is something for everyone and plenty to choose from. One of my own favourites is Diamondback which is located at Haines City. The course is set amidst the Florida swamp with not a house in sight. As you may have guessed the name Diamnondback refers to the rattlesnakes that take refuge in the nearby rough. If you’re like me, you may have been under the misconception that a rattlesnake, although very dangerous, is quite small. Wrong! Visit the pro shop at Diamondback where there is an unfortunate stuffed rattlesnake on show, which had to be destroyed by members of staff when it refused to leave the practise putting area (probably wasn’t wearing the correct clothing!) Believe me these things, aswell as being dangerous are huge. So when the staff advise you to abandon your ball if it goes too far into the rough take notice! Back to the course: It is owned by a group of private members consisting of retired professionals from the north. We were approached by one of these owners who made us very welcome. The course consists of 18 holes (par 72)and is not for the faint hearted. Some of the holes are very tight and a driver is not always the preferred club. The greens when we played were in beautiful condition but challenging. The picturesque 10th is backdropped by a stunning waterfall. I’ve played this course both in winter and spring, winter is peak season for golf and was considerably more expensive although still good value for money. One of our party rented clubs and was provided with an almost brand new set. All in all both days were a great experience which ended with drinks in the clubhouse, not the most luxurious I’ve ever visited, but this is easily compensated for by the beautiful view of a further waterfall which is the backdrop to the 18th. All the members were friendly and hospitable and this is definitely an experience I intend to repeat and would fully recommend it to anyone.