EMPIRE RANCH GOLF COURSE (1997)

HIGH SIERRA REGION

Public - 27 hole -cost: $25 - $40

1875 Fair Way, Carson City, NV 89701

Tel: (775) 885-2100

Designed by Cary Bickler. Located in the Carson Valley, This user friendly 27-hole layout plays through a valley setting enhanced by many water hazards. Afternoon winds can be a factor. The yardage listed is for the Sierra-Comstock combination. From South Lake Tahoe (about 29 miles northeast to the course): Take US 50 east. Turn right on Empire Ranch Road and then left on Clubhouse Way.

ENCINITAS RANCH GOLF COURSE (1998)

SAN DIEGO REGION

Municipal - 18 hole -cost: $27 - $76

1275 website: uail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024

Tel: (760) 944-1936

Designed by Cary Bickler. This is a flowing, open course near the coast and affords excellent views. To score well at Encinitas, you will need to do two things. First, play in the morning -- the afternoon wind will add several strokes to your score. Second, don't go left unless you like re-teeing. The greens are on the stiff side, but putt extremely true and you can attack them in a variety of ways. Residents and Southern Californian rates are available. Walking is allowed. Carts are not included in the the green fees. From San Diego (about 23 miles north to the course): Head north on I-5, exit at Leucadia, and drive east one mile. Turn left on Quail Gardens Drive. A fun course with some good ocean views.