Golf in Wake Forest

Cleaved into the rolling bluffs of the Carolina countryside, The Country Club of Johnston County's 18-hole, Ellis Maples–designed course encompasses 6,573 yards of well-groomed fairways and greens. Dense tree lines guide clubbers across the picturesque par 72, obstructing shots as players attempt to keep orbs on fairways that dog-leg and kitty-purr their way toward distant greens. Ponds dot the emerald landscape on four different holes, threatening ill-struck orbs and foreshadowing eventual retreats to the Club's outdoor pool. The stately complex keeps guests energized with a menu of savory grill fare, while outdoor tennis courts sate appetites for loose yellow fuzz. A dazzling banquet hall stands at the Club's epicenter, where reunited friends and wedding parties can enjoy a warmly lit ballroom, dance floor, and bar.

Course at a Glance:

• Designed by Ellis Maples
• 18-hole, par-72 course
• Length of 6,573 yards from the farthest tees
• Course rating of 71.9 from the farthest tees
• Slope rating of 132 from the farthest tees
• Four tee options

With its first swing of the tee in 1917, Paschal Golf Club is a public course that has played host to legions of golf lovers, weekend warriors, and even the legendary Arnold Palmer. The verdant nine-hole course can be played from four different tee boxes, offering a challenge for golfers of all skill levels. Golfers can loop the nine-hole course twice, allowing them to correct errant shot selections on difficult holes such as the eighth, which presents a forced carry over an elongated pond to reach the green, a heavily fortified zone guarded by bunkers on both sides and another water hazard behind. The tranquil Richland Creek trickles through the course, treating eyes to frequent sightings of wildlife such as deer, birds, and grazing golf carts. A clubhouse, snack bar, and pro shop cater to players as they unwind or stock up on gear, and a putting green warms up pendulums before rounds.:m]]

The sun-bathed slopes and immaculate greenery of an 18-hole golf course welcome members and guests to the stately grounds of Timberlake Golf Club. Inspired by the sprawling links of the Emerald Isle, the 6,511-yard, par 71 layout challenges golfers with slick, bent-grass greens, cavernous pot bunkers, and grassy mounds that produce lies more awkward than a middle school dance. Before rounds, golfers can smooth out their swings and putting stroke at the club’s full driving range and recently installed practice green. Members can also work up a sweat while smashing forehands at the club’s tennis courts before tip-toeing, diving, or driving their golf cart into the cerulean waters of an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

Course at a Glance:

• 18-hole, par 71 course
• Bent-grass greens
• Length of 6,511 yards from the farthest tees
• Four tee options
• Link to scorecard

Capital Golf Center beckons visitors to its 20 verdant acres sprawling with hands-on, family-friendly activities. A small river populated by poker-playing otters surges through the 18-hole miniature golf course and curves around daunting sand traps, where swingers can practice their short game, launching sandy balls onto smooth greens. For more serious swinging, head to the 25 sheltered and heated hitting bays at the practice facility, which is open year-round. Those in need of back-swing advice can bone up in lessons from PGA–certified instructor Jeff Robinson, who boasts two decades of experience to assist golf scholars.

Recently brought under the umbrella of the Fred Smith Company and renovated with champion bermuda grass on its greens, Olde Liberty Golf Club adds 7,200 yards of pristine playing conditions to the company's impressive portfolio of courses. The design team of Michael Gleason and Joel Moulin sculpted each of the club’s 18 distinctively designed holes into the countryside’s wooded terrain. A total of four sets of tees mitigate the difficulties brought on by the imposing forest, allowing golfers of all abilities, from greenhorns to green jacket holders, to play an enjoyable, memorable round.

Course at a Glance:

• 18-hole, par 72 course

• Total length of 7,200 yards from the back tees

• Course rating of 74.5 from the back tees

• Course slope of 139 from the back tees

• Four sets of tees per hole

After assessing your golf background and problem areas, Williams will tailor your lesson to your needs. Beginners are welcome, or more experienced golfers can use the lesson to improve their swing. Lessons at Perfect Fit include instruction and usage of the Explanar golf-swing training system, which improves swing technique by guiding movement through a large, adjustable hoop made of wishes. You’ll go home with written notes for practice as well as a DVD copy of a swing video with voice-over commentary.