The Buzz: Greenfield Lakes is one of several so-called “power executive” courses around the Valley of the Sun that have become popular with golfers who don’t have the time to devote to playing on full championship courses, but still want a little more than a pitch-and-putt, so they can crank up an occasional driver or fairway metal. Greenfield Lakes, which was designed by Ray Pacioni and opened in 1997, plays to par 62 with three sets of tees at 4,107, 3,626 and 2,792 yards, and has a rating of 59.7 and slope of 90 from the back tees.
There are two par-5 holes at 460 and 531 yards, par 4s at 306, 346 and 351 and a nice variety of par 3s ranging from 108 to 203 yards. The course is relatively flat with open fairways and four lakes that bring water into play on half of the holes. The finishing hole is that 531-yard par 5 with a double dogleg that is uncommon on “execs.” Regulars here like the friendly atmosphere of the place and a web site where they can view updated scores, course statistics and tournament results, not to mention affordable green fees.
Along with its low daily rates, which include a replay rate of 10 bucks, Greenfield offers monthly passes for all you can play for $99. Its driving range, putting green, chipping green and short-game area are lighted and open until 10 p.m., which provides a nice break when Valley temperatures begin to climb. Early in 2011, the course began a clubhouse renovation with plans to add a club repair shop and a self-serve food counter.