Played Bradenton yesterday. Shot a very pedestrian 81…but it was enough to take money off the boys. Wonderful track in excellent condition. The staff were bragging that the undulating tift eagle greens roll to an average stimp meter speed of 10 to 10.5. Might as well blame that for my two three putts.
Designed by architect Donald Ross in 1924, the course was completely renovated by Ron Garl in 1999. Some may remember when the course went by the name The Palma Sola Golf Club. In addition to the par 71, 18 hole layout, the club offers seven lighted Har-Tru tennis courts, a Junior Olympic swimming pool ( heated year round ) and a Fitness Center that is open from 5am to 10pm daily ( Pilates, yoga, circuit training and water aerobics)
Went to visit Sarah Paul, the membership director, for the latest rates. The affordability is surprising. A Full membership ( golf,tennis,pool,fitness center and clubhouse) currently costs only $10,000 in initiation with a monthly of $436 + tax. Reciprocals at 16 other Sarasota and Manatee courses is included from May to October. Anyone living on Anna Maria would find this their best private club option as it is located at the end of Ninth Avenue West, close to the Manatee Avenue bridge to the island.
