D'ANDREA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (2001)

HIGH SIERRA REGION

Semi-Private - 18 hole -cost: $70 - $80

2351 North D'Andrea Parkway, Sparks, NV 89434

Tel: (TI5) 331-6363

Designed by Keith Foster. Accuracy is important because each hole is separated by desert, so the likelihood of hitting another fairway is slim to none. The course rises 450 feet above the valley floor and provides some excellent views. There are a few forced carries, so keep it in the fairway, and you will be OK. Reciprocal play with other members-only clubs is allowed. From Reno: (about eight miles northeast to the course) Take I-80 east. Exit on Vista Boulevard. Go left over free­way and continue almost two miles. Turn right on North D'Andrea Parkway and follow the signs.

DAIRY CREEK GOLF COURSE (1997)

CENTRAL COAST REGION

Muncipal - 18 hole -cost: $16 - $40

2990 Dairy Creek Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

Tel: (805) 782-8060

Designed by John Harbottle. Many a golf ball has given up its life at Dairy Creek. The course has three large lakes that come into play and a creek (Dairy Creek) that appears on nearly every hole. The greens are large, but subtle in slope. Off the tee, aiming for the cart path could save you many strokes. The cart paths run away from hazards, and balls hit in that direction tend to funnel back into the middle of the fairway. From within San Luis Obispo: From US 101, exit onto Highway 1 toward Morro Bay. After about six miles, at the light, turn right onto Dairy Creek Road. Stay to the left. These are the types of courses that are in short supply in California. Dairy Creek won't blow you away from a design standpoint, but it is a user -friendly layout with good service at a reasonable price.