River Club (941-751-421)
Review 12/11/04
The River Club in Bradenton is a four star golf facility (Golf Digest Places to Play) designed by Ron Garl. This is
not your typical Florida layout - as the front nine presents rolling fairways with plentiful mounding, while the back
winds through dense forest with undulating putting surfaces. This semi-private club is open to the golfing public
seven days a week, and as the slope ratings indicate - is recommended for the serious golfer.
Five sets of tees play to distances and slope ranging from 7026 yards/135 slope, 6614 yards/130 slope, 6102
yards/125 slope, 5622 yards/119 slope and 5127 yards with a 121 slope from the forward tees. There are 100,
150 and 200 yard markers on the fairways, and pin placements are indicated by small markers on each flag
stick for front, middle or back hole locations. Water comes into play on 16 of the 18 holes, and while the
bunkering is understated (36 in total), the sand traps are strategically located and often huge in size, particularly
on the back side. All four par threes on the course will warrant mid to long irons, and require carries over water or sand.
The practice facilities on property include a Bermuda grass targeted range, plus a full short game area with
putting and chipping green with sand bunker. The clubhouse features a full service pro shop (with club fitting), a
restaurant and screened terrace with wonderful golf course views that is open seven days a week for breakfast
and lunch from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM, for dinner 5-9 on Thursdays and Fridays, and for Sunday Brunch 10 AM til 2
PM. The banquet room is available for outings and private functions, and members can enjoy tennis and an outdoor pool as well as other amenities.
Beautiful golf course, fine facilities, reasonable pricing...highly recommended. High lipped bunkers, mounding,
natural areas, ponds, rivers and creeks, plus small undulating greens will challenge all levels of players on this
tropically landscaped layout. The Florida Sports Fan Magazine has rated this course as one of the top 50 in the
state! Located just 1 1/2 mile east of I-75 on SR 70 (exit 217A), The River Club is easily accessible from Tampa
and St Petes. For more info, visit our page for the River Club with a direct link to their website, by clicking here.
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