No tricks needed at Indian Springs

Sometimes the simplest tests are the most challenging. A case in point would be the fourth hole at Indian Springs, a 432-yard par 4 without whistles or bells.

As the No. 1 handicap hole on the Jack Kidwell-designed course, the fourth hole stands its ground without the need of a water hazard, sand trap or big elevation change. It simply requires two stout shots. Anything less than that and a bogey or worse will likely find its way onto your scorecard. That's why it belongs in Oldgolfdawg's Elegant Eighteen list.

The hole begins from an elevated tee and demands a well-struck drive into a narrowing fairway flanked by tree trouble. Any straying from the straight and narrow will likely lead to a blocked second shot or a bad angle into the green that will require working the ball left or right. If you hit a straight drive, say 250 yards, you're still left with a shot of about 182 yards that plays longer because the fairway slowly rises as it approaches the green. There's also some overhanging tree branches from a group of trees on the left side of the fairway that come into play about 100 yards from the green.

The good-sized green, which slopes generally from back to front, is cut into a gentle hillside and is protected in front by a rise just before reaching the putting surface. Shots hit near the green but without enough force will often roll back down or slide off the rise. If the pin is in the front of the green, it is difficult to hit a second shot near it unless it is hit very high and lands softly. The green is fast. If you end up in the back of it and the cup is in the front or middle of the green, one has to be careful about not running putts way past the hole or even off the green.

Oldgolfdawg used to play Indian Springs, which is located about 37 miles west of downtown Columbus in Mechanicsburg on Rt. 161, three or four times a year when it first opened in 1990. The two nines, known as The Reserve and The Woods, combine for a rating of 72.0 and a slope of 135 from the middle tees, which play 6,630 yards. It's a tough track and one has to bring their A game to this venue if they hope to post a good score.

Perhaps that's why Oldgolfdawg cut back on the number of rounds he's played there in recent years, more a reflection on the state of his game than the course itself. It is a beautiful, well-manicured course with an interesting layout and a variety of straightforward challenges. If the idea of eating a little humble pie doesn't scare you away, you won't be disappointed by the examination Indian Springs will afford your game.

http://www.golfindiansprings.com/