"That's not right"

"That's not right". I heard that exact line from a member today (Saturday) regarding how difficult it was to put spin on a wedge shot from our fairways as compared to a much newer golf course with totally different fairway grass. Now I'm a little confused here. The other course in question has a fairly pure stand of Kentucky bluegrass cut quite short and in good condition. We have fairways that are mostly annual bluegrass (Poa annua) cut quite short (1/2 inch) and in good condition (at least for how old they are and how much business they see). Is it easier to spin a ball from a fairway lie where a ball sits up due to the very upright growth habit of Kentucky bluegrass? Yes. But one should be able to do that at Highlands as well as there is very little grass getting between the club face and the ball. Maybe not on a Sunday afternoon but certainly during the week. What's not right? The fact we don't have the same fairway turf? That Highlands is about 70 years older? That conditions aren't the same at every course all things being equal? Which they certainly are not as we all know full well! That annual bluegrass isn't Kentucky bluegrass? Our fairways are not going to be mowed any shorter any time soon. We're doing what we can to improve the soil profile and we use our irrigation system correctly in order to improve the fairways. What is "not right" about different conditions? I'm not talking about drastic differences here but more subtle ones by the way. Golfing at other courses in our area is not another stop on the PGA Tour where conditions are standardized for the best players in the world.

I, for one, love going to other courses and playing in conditions that are different and maybe even better than Highlands. But before lamenting the fact we don't have this or we don't have that and somehow it's not right, all variables must be considered and appreciated. Then again enough money can change anything I guess. Although looking in my crystal ball I don't see a conversion to Kentucky bluegrass fairways in the near future.

Some might say I'm being defensive here. I'm not. I'm defending Highlands from an unfair comment. That's my nature. On the other hand if someone makes a comparison or point that has validity I will be the first one to agree. Usually. After I'm hit over the head a few times. Anyone laughing yet? Yes I can be stubborn but it is your golf course and I work for you. So say what you must but be ready for a response sometimes. Please enjoy Highlands for what it is. A pretty damn fine course in a great location that is improving year after year. My promise to you, the members, is to give you the best conditions that my budget, my staff and my expertise can deliver. Now, I'm going to go polish off a six pack of Diet Coke.

See you out there.