June 6, 2010

STREETSBORO, OH — Boulder Creek Golf Club is an upscale golf course with the superb conditions and atmosphere like a resort. The 4 1/2 star ranked course by Golf Digest throughout its life (2002-2010) is now the 3rd best golf course in the state according to Golf Week Magazine. The Joe Salemi designed masterpiece is located in southeastern Cleveland and 30 yards from Interstate 80.

"I think Poplar Grove's brother lives in Ohio," says Greg Long, Chairman of the Captains Club. "The terrain and conditions at Boulder Creek are almost identical to Poplar Grove. The hole design is not only strong, but the property is beautiful.

This is a great facility with potential to hold its first national championship. It is surprising this course has hidden from my personal list for so many years."

The championship course is located in Streetsboro and opened in 2002. This spectacular course lies in heavily wooded terrain with mature pines and oaks covering hills, marshes and deep lakes. While bunkered conservatively, there are plenty of grassy hollows and bumps in addition to the challenging terrain of water, elevation changes and mature pines to keep you on your toes.

There are no lulls in this gem. Starting with the 1st hole, this great par 5 requires a good tee shot so that you can carry a large marsh on your second. An interesting split fairway at the 6th hole and a beautiful waterfall accompanies the 7th hole. You can actually see the par 4 9th hole from the Ohio Turnpike. A long and accurate tee shot is preferred there because your second shot must carry a large lake and bunkers to get home in regulation.

"The 11th hole is my personal favorite," says Long of the short downhill par 4. "One of the most beautiful holes ever played."

The grand golf opera finale occurs at the beautiful island par three 17th hole where wind always tricks you into under-clubbing. Then the monster 600+ yard par 5 18th hole where you will be rewarded you if you can get to the fairway downslope. "One of the largest greens ever played," says Long. "I would imagine the oval shaped 3-tiered green is 160 feet from front to back."

There are a number of hotels and entertainment options within 2 miles of the golf course. "The driving distance between vendors in Streetsboro would be similar to Rock Hollow and Peru, IN. Boulder Creek has confirmed tee time availability throughout the 4-day period surrounding June 2011. I am very pleased so far with the potential setup."

The Carl Spackler Open was held in Ohio back in June 2003. North Carolina and Virginia are the only states to host two events.

Boulder Creek Golf Club was added to the consideration stew being brewed by the Captains Club. The 2011 Carl Spackler Open Championship will be held May 18-22, 2011 or June 8-12, 2011. There are 68 to 84 participants expected for the 11th annual event. A decision on venue will be completed prior to November 1, 2010.