SoCo golfer lists five fab local links

May 11, 8:07 AMSonoma County ExaminerLaura McHale Holland

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I used to watch adoringly as my father practiced putting in our backyard when I was a kid. But it never occurred to him to make me a little putter like my friend Dan Watkins' dad did for him when Dan was six or seven years old (much like Tiger Woods' dad did for the golf phenom). "He painted fingerprints on the grip where I was supposed to put my thumbs," Dan said. He's loved the sport ever since. In this interview, Dan, who modestly rates himself a "fair" golfer, shares his five favorite Sonoma County golf courses.

LMH: What keeps you playing the sport?

DW: I play mainly for the exercise of my mind and body. It is both relaxing and invigorating. Since it is played outdoors, you get a lot of fresh air and direct contact with the natural world. It is also relatively easy on the body in comparison to other sports like basketball or tennis. And it helps you to focus mentally. It challenges you to control your emotions and forces you to confront negative thoughts  -- I can't make this putt, I hope I don't hook my drive, etc.

LMH: What do you look for in a golf course?

DW: Well-manicured fairways and greens. Especially greens. Having a smooth, sure surface on which to putt is the most important part of a golf course, in my opinion. Temporary greens -- greens cut out of the fairways while the actual greens are tended to -- are the worst.

LMH: What are your favorite golf courses in Sonoma County?

1. Northwood. It's only nine holes, but it's a beautiful course in amongst the redwoods. The course is kept in good condition. You have to shape your shots in order to play well. The course architect was a Scotsman named Alistair McKenzie, who also helped golfing great Bobby Jones design Augusta National golf course, where the Masters is played.

2. Bodega Harbour Golf Links. This might be the hardest course in Sonoma County because it is right on the coast and exposed to the elements. It's also very hilly. But as a test of golf, it is very challenging, both from a mental and physical aspect.

3. Tayman Park. Nine holes but you have to play a variety of shots. Great view of the Russian River Valley. Lots of flora and fauna.

4. Rooster Run. This is one of the longer public courses. Good if you like to air it out off the tee. It's next to a private airport so you get a lot of private planes buzzing around. It also has good hot dogs.

5. Bennett Valley Golf Course. 18 holes with a nice mix of short and long holes. Good driving range.

LMH: Is there something you think Sonoma County could do to make the golf experience here more enjoyable?

Lower the fees on the more expensive courses. They would get more play and a greater variety of people. Only well-off golfers playing a particular course makes for a boring clubhouse.