This year, interest in Golf in Westchester is at levels we haven’t seen since since Tiger Woods came on the scene in 1996. Golf provides an outdoor pleasure that is easy to play safely, and also comply with social distancing.
This renewed interest in golf makes it tough to get a tee time on the Westchester County public courses. That is where Hollow Brook Golf Club, located on Oregon Road in Cortlandt Manor, becomes a possible destination for golfers and families.
Director of Golf Phil Eyre has been working at Hollow Brook Golf Club since 2007 and manages the golf operations, the golf shop and teaches golfers of all ages and abilities, including a notable young golfers program that is producing successful young golfers. For the family looking for a place that will teach their young golfer, consider Hollow Brook and Eyre, who is originally from England, and who teaches the ‘complete game.’
Eyre makes sure that everyone is comfortable, and pays special attention to young golfers. He calls Hollow Brook “an extended family atmosphere,” that has been more important to its members during COVID-19.
I played the course and found it in great shape. The challenging and unique 6,923 yard layout, sits on 250 picturesque acres, and provides golfers with a combination of classic Westchester style holes, with dramatic elevation changes on other holes.
My favorite holes are the 5th, a 100-yard, Par 3, from on top of a hill to the bottom, and the 18th, a classic Par four with the 22,000 square foot clubhouse in the background. Challenging holes include the 10th and 11th, which circle around a lake that was used decades ago as a private swim club and recreational park called Lakeland Acres. Both holes require a good tee shot and have sandy gravel cart paths surrounding the fairways.
Improvements made three years ago under Superintendent Chris Smith are still intact. Three stately bridges cross the waterways, which include a crystal clear trout stream that runs through the property. The course is walker friendly, and I was impressed with the quality of the course as we enter the summer. The greens were rolling true and the fairways were plush.
Most important, my round at Hollow Brook reminded me of what a different and unique course is waiting for you in Northern Westchester.
Because of its natural beauty, and large modern clubhouse, Hollow Brook is also a perfect venue for your wedding, special occasion or golf outing. Testimonials include, “A dream wedding,” and “absolute perfection.” A large outdoor swimming pool complete the package for the Westchester or Putnam family looking for a recreational getaway close to home.
The history of Hollow Brook before the course was build includes ownership by the Sisterhood of Saint Mary for one half of the property, with the other half the location for the Hollow Brook Drive in Movie Theater.
Visit golfhollowbrook.com or call 914-734-1500 for more information.
