Category: Golf

In the world of golf, where every aspect of a swing is meticulously analyzed, one often overlooked element is the tempo of the swing. While swing mechanics and clubhead speed receive ample attention, the rhythm and timing of the entire movement often go unnoticed. We recently asked our Head Golf Professional, Keith Kelly, for some basic guidelines on the impact of tempo on the overall performance of a golfer’s swing. Here’s his wise advice:

“When talking about the golf swing, very few people talk about the tempo of the swing. There was a good study on tempo in the early 2000s, and the results were astonishing. Most tour pros who were successful in golf had the same tempo of 3:1. When they got out of this tempo, their game suffered. Most amateurs have too slow of a backswing, and their tempo is off. Tempo can affect many things in the swing that we do not realize. The two main things it affects are distance and consistency in shot patterns. I always talk to my students about avoiding hitting the ball hard with their upper body. This happens because the tempo is off, and they are trying to speed the swing up.

It is not easy to fix on your own, but there are some good tools out there to help you fix tempo. There is an app that costs about $25 called Tour Temp that you can put on your phone to help fix tempo (Also a book written about it with the same title if you don’t like apps). There is also the swing tool called the Orange Whip that can help fix your tempo. Will it fix everything in your swing? Of course not, but it will make you more consistent in your ball striking.”

While these tools offer valuable support, mastering tempo requires a combination of practice and self-awareness. Golfers must carefully monitor their swing, consciously maintaining the 3:1 tempo ratio. With dedication and perseverance, golfers can unlock the power of tempo and elevate their game to new heights.

For other ways to improve your game, we’re happy to help – especially if you are starting to learn how to play golf. Our friendly golf pros offer private and group lessons for people of all ages and skill levels. Moreover, playing our award-winning Weiskopf/Morrish-designed course is a wonderfully entertaining activity you will not soon forget. We invite you to experience it for yourself — call the Pro Shop to arrange lessons, or go ahead and book your tee time online today.

Georgia is renowned for its picturesque golf courses, boasting stunning landscapes and top-notch facilities that entice golf enthusiasts worldwide. Among these, Harbor Club on Lake Oconee stands as a gem, capturing the essence of what makes golf courses in Georgia so exceptional. Situated in Greensboro, Harbor Club combines natural beauty, immaculate course design, and numerous accolades, making it one of the best golf courses in Georgia.

Harbor Club on Lake Oconee is a golfer’s paradise, perfectly encapsulating the essence of golf courses in Georgia. With breathtaking views of Lake Oconee, it offers an unparalleled golfing experience for players of all skill levels. The course’s design and the scenic backdrop of Georgia’s lush landscapes create a harmonious blend of challenge and natural beauty.

Harbor Club’s golf course is an 18-hole masterpiece meticulously designed by renowned golf architects Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish. The duo crafted the course to harmonize with the existing topography, seamlessly blending fairways and greens into the natural surroundings. This design philosophy allows golfers to immerse themselves in Georgia’s gorgeous landscapes while enjoying a challenging game.

One of the standout features of Harbor Club is its commitment to excellence, resulting in numerous accolades and recognition in the realm of golf courses in Georgia. Ranked #4 for “Best Courses You Can Play” in Georgia by GOLF Magazine and nationally recognized as “Best Residential Golf Course” by Golfweek Magazine, Harbor Club has established itself as a premier destination among golf courses in Georgia. The course’s top-notch reputation is a testament to the dedication to providing an exceptional golfing experience for locals and visitors alike.

And for those interested in golf memberships in Georgia, especially in Lake Country, Harbor Club offers a variety of options that cater to many lifestyles. There are Full Golf, Corporate Golf, Junior Golf, Weekday Golf, and Social Memberships available, as are refundable options. A Harbor Club membership is both distinctive and rewarding. With it, you can promote your professionalism and conduct business in a unique and impressive way. So whatever you’re looking for — increased wellness, better networking opportunities, or more friendships, you’ve got it with an exclusive Harbor Club membership. 

As you plan your next golfing adventure, consider Harbor Club on Lake Oconee as a top choice among golf courses in Georgia. Experience the joy of a well-designed course set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Oconee and Georgia’s stunning landscapes. Book your tee time online and embark on a golfing journey that combines challenge, natural beauty, and the best of what golf courses in Georgia have to offer.

The gentle rustle of leaves, the crisp morning air, and the vibrant foliage — it’s fall, and for golf enthusiasts, that means one thing: a perfect season to play at a golf course in Georgia. Georgia’s courses provide an exceptional golfing experience, especially at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee. Here are seven compelling reasons why fall golf in Georgia is amazing.

Fall foliage = gorgeous colors

As summer bids farewell and the trees prepare for winter slumber, Georgia’s golf courses transform into breathtaking autumn hues. The fairways and greens come alive with shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a picturesque backdrop for a memorable golf game. Strolling through and viewing all the natural beauty is a fantastic experience, making your rounds during fall even more enjoyable.

Mild and invigorating weather

Fall in Georgia means a pleasant break from the summer heat. The weather during this season is mild and invigorating, offering an ideal climate for a leisurely day on the golf course. With the sun gently warming the greens and a refreshing breeze, your golf swing will surely be on point, allowing you to thoroughly savor every moment on the course.

Fewer crowds = a better experience

Many people return to their routines at the end of summer vacation, so golf courses tend to be less crowded during fall. That means a more intimate and personalized golfing experience. You can take your time, enjoy each hole at your own pace, and perhaps even have some picturesque holes all to yourself, immersing yourself fully in the game and the awe-inspiring surroundings.

Autumn is a time for reflection

As the year nears its end, fall offers an excellent time for reflecting on your golf game. Evaluate your progress and identify areas for improvement. It’s the perfect time to learn new golf strategies and set goals for the upcoming season. The serene ambiance of fall fosters a reflective mood, enabling you to hone your skills for an even better game next year.

Nature is in full swing

Fall is a season of migration and activity for many animals. You might see some fascinating wildlife when you’re out on the golf course in autumn. From graceful deer to colorful birds, golf courses in Georgia (and especially our award-winning track on Lake Oconee) offer a front-row seat to the wonders of nature while enjoying your game.

Pristine Course Conditions: Optimal Playing Surface

The fall season often means that Georgia golf courses are at their best. In fact, Harbor Club’s A1/A4 bentgrass greens dominate in fall. Our Penn A-1 / Penn A-4 creeping bentgrass turf is a cool-season grass that thrives from October through May. When asked about Harbor Club’s greens, our head golf pro, Keith Kelly, shared this fascinating fact on Instagram with Pete Pappas (@pgapappas): “They’re A1/A4 bentgrass greens. They’re the same thing that’s at Augusta National. We don’t quite have the SubAir systems that they do, but they are very nice greens. In the spring and fall, they generally run anywhere from 13 to 15, depending on how firm our superintendent decides to make them. In the summertime, we slow them down a little bit to make them survive, but they’re still usually running between 11 and 12.“

More tee time availability

With the slightly reduced demand for tee times during fall, you’ll likely find a broader range of available slots that suit your schedule. Whether you’re an early riser or prefer a late afternoon round, fall allows you to choose your preferred tee time without the rush or limitations often experienced during the busier seasons.

So, seize the moment and embrace the serenity of fall golf in Georgia. Head to Harbor Club on Lake Oconee, one of Georgia’s premier golf courses, and immerse yourself in the season’s beauty while enjoying a memorable round. Don’t wait – experience the magic of fall golf at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee and book your tee time today.

When teeing off on any golf course in Georgia, it’s essential to do more than just hit the ball as far as possible and hope for the best. One key aspect of improving your golf game is effective course management, and this month’s pro tip focuses on just that. While many golfers often neglect the importance of planning their rounds strategically, doing so significantly impacts scoring. The strategy we’re about to share, inspired by college golf wisdom, transformed our Head Golf Professional, Keith Kelly’s game, and it can do the same for you. By tailoring your approach to different types of holes—par 4s, par 5s, and par 3s—you can optimize your chances of success on any golf course, including ours.

Here’s what Keith has to say:

“Most golfers try to hit the ball as far as possible and then hit it again. That is usually the most they touch on planning their round out before they play. However, planning your golf round can make a big difference in your scoring. Below is a strategy that was given to me back when I played college golf, and it made a big difference in my scoring.

Par 4s – Pick a distance you can reach with your drive on every par four that will leave you the same distance into the hole. For example – I can hit my tee shot on every par 4 to the 150-yard marker. The distance to the 150-yard marker from the tee box will determine the club I will tee off with. If the hole is 400 yards, then I would hit 3-wood off the tee. If the hole was 350 yards, I would hit a 4-iron off the tee. When a hole is too long (example #13), play it like the par 5’s. This will allow you to hit the same club into the green on all the par 4s.

Par 5s – Pick a distance to hit your 3rd shot into the green. Plan on the 3rd shot being 100 yards. Then, plan how to get to the 100-yard marker the safest way. Example – 550-yard hole. I need my 1st and 2nd shots to equal 450 yards. That would be a 3-wood off the tee box for me and a 4-iron for my 2nd shot. This, again, will allow you to hit the same club into all the par 5s. The only exception on par 5s is if you need an eagle to win an event. Then you take the chance of hitting the green in 2.

Par 3s – They are what they are, but you plan on the safest route for the hole. Say you have a bunker on the right side and nothing on the left. Your aiming point should be to the left side of the green, where your chances of making par are greater.

The first time I implemented this strategy in a practice round, I ended up shooting 5-under par. My average scoring that year was around 1 or 2 over par. To make that much of a difference on the first attempt convinced me that was the way to go in individual tournament situations.“

For more helpful golf tips, we’re happy to help. Our friendly golf pros offer private and group golf lessons for people of all ages and skill levels. Moreover, playing our award-winning Weiskopf/Morrish-designed course is an enjoyable activity you’ll never forget. We invite you to experience it for yourself — call the Pro Shop to arrange lessons or book your tee time online today.

Want to gain a unique competitive advantage in golf? Perfecting your putt is the secret to lowering your handicap, not just at our golf course in Georgia but at any course, anywhere. Putting is nearly 40 percent of the game at virtually every level of play. That’s why diligent practice will improve your performance and enhance your green reading, speed control, and confidence. We recently asked our Head Golf Professional, Keith Kelly, for some helpful tips and guidelines on putting, including the importance of practice and how to best accomplish it. Here’s what he has to say:

Something most players try to avoid is practicing putting, but it is one of the most important aspects of golf to score well. If you hit every green in regulation and two putt every hole, then putting will be half of all the strokes you make to shoot 72. So, imagine if you have more than 36 putts and don’t hit every green in regulation. Your score will go up greatly. So having the correct technique and practicing can be the quickest way to lower your handicap.  

When putting, make sure you are holding the putter in the palms of your hands. This will help eliminate the turning of the face at impact. Make sure you use your shoulders to move the putter back and forth, and not your wrists. This will help you control speed much better when putting. Then it is a matter of practicing certain drills to improve your confidence and speed control.

Three drills I recommend are listed below:

First drill – Put four tees around the hole about three feet away. Putt three balls in a row into the hole before moving to the next tee. Once you have putted from all four tees, move on to another hole on the putting green. The goal is to do this at all the holes on the putting green in less than 30 minutes. Once you do this, you can back it up to five feet instead of three. This will give you confidence on short putts around the hole.

Second drill – Put two balls at five feet, two balls at 10 feet, and two balls at 15 feet. Start at the five-foot putt and try to get it within a foot of the hole with the first ball. Then back up to 10 feet and try to get it within a foot of the hole. Then back up to 15 feet and try to get it within a foot of the hole. Then putt the 15-foot second ball, the 10-foot second ball, and the five-foot second ball. Move to the next hole once you can get all six putts within one foot of the hole.

Third drill – Line up a putt from 10 feet. Once you are all set, close your eyes and hit the putt. Before opening your eyes, make a prediction of what the ball did. Was it short or long, or did you miss it left or right? This will help develop your feel while keeping your head still and not having to look up at putts.

You should dedicate at least three 30-minute practice sessions a week if you really want to improve at putting. You will not believe how quickly your scoring will go down if you do.

For more helpful golf tips, we’re happy to help. Our friendly golf pros offer private and group golf lessons for people of all ages and skill levels. Moreover, playing our award-winning Weiskopf/Morrish-designed course is an enjoyable activity you’ll not soon forget. We invite you to experience it for yourself — call the Pro Shop to arrange lessons or book your tee time online today.

Playing the best golf course in Georgia during summer requires some planning. To beat the heat, it’s best to use strategies for staying cool on a hot day. But to make your summer season rounds even better, here are eight more tips for enjoyable play on our award-winning Georgia golf course:

More daylight = more play

Summer in Georgia offers plenty of long daylight hours, meaning more time to play. Playing two rounds (36 holes), back-to-back in the summertime is possible, especially when using a golf cart (which we recommend.) And if two rounds seem like too much, use the extra daylight to practice putting during the evening instead.

Play a late round

Most players typically enjoy an early morning round during the summertime. However, playing a round late on a summer day offers slightly cooler temperatures and, even better, special twilight rates. While it may not be quite as cool as early morning, the humidity and dew points are often lower, making it easier for your body to stay cool and dry. 

Lighten your load

By this, we mean clean out your golf bag. When was the last time you completely emptied it? If it’s been a while, do yourself a favor and clean it out thoroughly so you’re not carrying around any unnecessary weight.

Select your club wisely

Think twice before choosing your club during summertime. When the weather is warmer, your golf ball travels farther. This is because cold air is more dense than warm air, creating more friction and drag. Also, consider the fact that our muscles are more flexible and responsive at higher temperatures, which helps the efficiency of your golf swing.

Use a mini fan

A small, battery-powered fan is easy to stash in your golf bag and is a welcome asset on a hot day. Some portable fans can easily clip onto your golf cart. Others have water misters built in, which help keep you even cooler.

Stay hydrated

We’ve mentioned it before–and we’ll mention it again – hydration is vital for top-notch performance on any Georgia golf course. The best fluids to drink while playing golf here during the summer months are sports drinks with electrolytes, coconut water, and plain fresh water. Avoid any sugary sodas, alcoholic beverages, and coffee drinks.

Remove your glove

Most golfers remove their gloves only when putting. During the summer, try taking it off after every hit. Doing so will not only be more comfortable for you, but it will also keep your glove dryer, help preserve its original shape, and keep it from stiffening up. 

Beware of lightning

Summer thunderstorms are common in the South. If there’s lightning in the area, play it safe and seek shelter immediately. Note that golf carts and trees are not safe places during thunderstorms. It’s better to hunker down in the safety of a substantial building – one like our Clubhouse, where you can ride out the storm and enjoy a snack and drink while doing so.

Summer or otherwise, playing golf here at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee is enjoyable any time of year. Don’t miss out – book your tee time today. We look forward to seeing you on our championship golf course soon. 

Golf carts are a staple on the golf course, providing golfers with an easy way to navigate the track. However, with this convenience comes a responsibility to follow proper golf cart etiquette. Here are some tips from our Head Golf Pro, Keith Kelly, for being a courteous and safe golf cart driver:

Par 3’s = cart path only

On most golf courses, par 3’s are cart paths only. Never drive a golf cart on the grass on a par 3, no matter the course conditions or what’s allowed on other holes. Unless you have special permission to drive your cart on the grass on a par 3, assume you can’t.

Use two carts per foursome

The pandemic is over, so there aren’t many reasons a foursome should use four golf carts. Strive to use two carts per foursome, as multiple solo carts add a lot more stress to the turf and the root systems for trees.

Follow the rules set by the course for the day

Before you start your round of golf, check the rules set by the course for the day. Here are some general ones to be aware of:

• Cart path only – When the ‘cart path only’ rule is in effect, keep your golf cart on designated routes. Drive on the path to where you’re parallel to your golf ball, stop your cart, get out, grab a couple of clubs you may need, then walk out to your ball.

• 90 degrees – The ’90-degree rule’ means you may drive your golf cart onto the grass but only at a 90-degree angle from the cart path. Drive on the cart path until you are parallel to your ball, then make a 90-degree turn off the cart path and drive straight across to where it rests.

• Enter and exit posts – Look for the “Enter Here” and “Exit Here” markers along the cart paths. Follow them, and don’t drive beyond them. Note that the maintenance staff may periodically reposition the locations of these markers based on the amount of cart traffic.

Please don’t go there

It’s a well-known, unwritten rule, but worth restating. Never drive your golf cart onto tee boxes or 30 yards around a green. Also, if you notice wet ground, avoid driving on it, even if you’re permitted to drive on the course. When your golf cart slides, skids, or sinks, it causes immediate, lasting damage to the turf.

Declare cart damage

If you damage a golf cart, please inform a staff member of the problem. Being responsible for your actions is a courtesy to others. Plus, it helps ensure the next golfer using the cart will have a safe and reliable way to navigate the course.

Don’t drink and drive

Drinking and driving is never a good idea, regardless of the vehicle—cars, boats, or even golf carts. Never drive a golf cart if you’ve had too much to drink. While it may seem harmless, a golf cart is still a moving vehicle, and an accident in one could result in dire consequences. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Using a golf cart is a fun and convenient way to get around the course. However, not following the proper etiquette rules can ruin your or someone else’s day. Kindly follow our handy tips to help ensure that our championship course’s playing conditions remain top-notch and that everyone’s round on the course is the best it can be. We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you soon at Harbor Club. Don’t wait to play — book your tee time now.

Most golf courses have a formal dress code to maintain certain golf traditions. While some age-old traditions are still upheld, other courses are more contemporary. Overall, what you wear on a golf course typically depends on weather conditions and the type of golf course you’re playing. But, no matter what you wear, it should be functional without sacrificing style. Here are some top tips to follow when it comes to golf attire etiquette:

Proper men’s golf attire

Men’s tops

A collared shirt is the way to go when it comes to men’s tops. Sleeves, long or short, are also required. It’s wise to keep shirts tucked in at all times. For a more formal look, men can opt for a button-down shirt. Breathable fabrics are good for comfort on the golf course, especially during warmer months. For colder seasons, vests, sweaters, or windbreakers are ok. It’s best to avoid any t-shirts or jean jackets.

Men’s bottoms

Khakis, athletic pants, and nearly knee-length shorts are perfectly acceptable for men to wear on the golf course. Wrinkle-resistant fabrics are a good option. Avoid all denim, sweatpants, cargo pants, swimsuits, and cut-off shorts. 

Men’s shoes

Metal-spiked golf shoes are banned from almost all golf courses because of how the spikes dig up the playing surface, so make sure yours have soft spikes or are spikeless. White, black, or brown golf shoes are safe color options. Running shoes are typically permitted on a golf course, but golf shoes will grip the turf better. Always refrain from wearing flip-flops. 

Proper women’s golf attire

Women’s tops

Women have more flexibility when it comes to golf attire. There are more styles to choose from, but there’s also an emphasis on keeping outfits modest. A polo-style shirt is a great option. Unlike men, it’s acceptable for women to wear collared v-necks and sleeveless shirts. Vests, sweaters, or windbreakers are perfect for chilly weather. Avoid tank tops, t-shirts, and halters.

Women’s bottoms

Most women’s-specific golf skirts, shorts, dresses, and pants are acceptable at most golf courses. To be on the safe side, most women’s skirts and shorts should be knee-length. Some exclusive clubs may require skirt hemlines to be below the knee, but most clubs (like Harbor Club) will require the skirt not to be excessively short. Avoid all denim, yoga pants, leggings, sweats, cut-off jeans, short shorts, and sun dresses.

Women’s shoes

The same rule applies as it does to men’s shoes – women’s golf shoes should not have metal spikes. If you must have spikes, choose hard rubber or plastic ones instead. Sneakers are usually permitted on a golf course, but golf shoes will provide more grip. Refrain from wearing any flip-flops, heels, or sandals. 

Hats on the golf course

Men and women may wear hats on the golf course and should undoubtedly opt for one if the sun is strong. Choose simple visors or baseball caps and ensure the peak is always facing forward. Some straw hats, bucket hats, and beanies (for winter play) are acceptable too. But remember to always remove your hat upon entering a building.

Standard dress code etiquette

To ensure that your golf garb is respectful, follow these basic rules:

• Avoid clothing that’s overly casual or revealing
• Avoid wearing anything that may be considered offensive
• Ensure your clothes fit well and are clean and pressed

It’s best to err on the side of caution and dress more formally than less. And, if you’re still not sure about the dress code, call the golf course and ask. That way, you can avoid an embarrassing situation where you may be asked to leave to obtain the proper attire or purchase it at the Pro Shop and immediately change in the locker room. 

Stylish, functional golf attire will not only help you look like a pro on the course, but it may also help improve your game. Feel free to contact our golf professionals at Harbor Club if you have any questions, and while you’re at it, schedule your next tee time too. We look forward to seeing you on our award-winning golf course soon.

Proper etiquette is the equivalent of good manners – or “the golden rule,” meaning “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” It’s no different on the golf course. To truly enjoy golf, every player should demonstrate courtesy, honesty, and good sportsmanship. Here are five golf etiquette tips that will help make the game better for everyone:

Check your pace of play

All golfers have a responsibility to keep things moving on the course. Be ready to play at the beginning of your round to ensure a good pace of play. And while some players (especially novices) have struggles, those issues shouldn’t impact the pace of play. Here’s the rule: four over par should be the max score on any hole. Once a player has reached the limit, it’s time to pick up and move on.

When to let a group play through

Be aware of who is playing behind you. A foursome typically plays slower than a single or twosome. If no groups are playing right in front of you, and you’re holding up players behind you, move to the side of the hole and wave to let them play through. If this happens more than once in a round, especially if the groups behind you are multiple players, you likely need to pick up the pace.

Respect the course

Whenever a repair is required, go ahead and fix it. For example, anytime you make a divot in the fairway, replace it. If you make a mark or indentation on the green, fix it. Rake the sand after tramping through it. Be careful with practice swings to avoid tearing up the turf. And please throw all trash in the proper bins so that the wooded areas remain clean. 

Respect other players

Stay quiet and stand still when players are teeing off or preparing to putt. Don’t walk in a player’s line before or after the hole on the green. And be sure to have your phone in silent mode. Better yet, leave your (silenced) cell phone in your golf bag. Loud laughter, sneezing, coughing, phone ringers, or unnecessary activity make it more challenging for fellow players to prepare for a tricky swing.

Be kind

Keep frustrations under control and always show decorum while playing golf. To avoid an awkward conversation, refrain from bringing any outside coolers into the course. Also, be kind and respectful to all golf course employees. Be sure to tip your hardworking cart staff, beverage cart girl, and restaurant servers. And no matter what, when you finish your round, congratulate the winner, shake hands with each player, and thank each for participating. 

Everyone knows that a bit of courtesy goes a long way toward gaining respect from other golfers, maintaining good conditions, and enhancing your pace of play. So why not enjoy a fantastic golf experience here at Harbor Club? We strive to make it the best it can be. Book your tee time today – we look forward to seeing you soon.

The angle of attack (aka AoA) in golf is the vertical (up-down) angle your golf club is moving at the time of impact on the ball. A positive AoA means hitting up on the ball, while a negative AoA means hitting down on the ball. Since everyone has different swings, there’s no exact formula for your angle of attack with all your clubs. But understanding how AoA works and how to use it to your advantage can take your game to new heights (pun intended.) We recently asked our Head Golf Professional, Keith Kelly, for some basic guidelines on the proper angle of attack for hitting higher and lower. Here’s what he has to say:

“To change the height of your ball flight, you must change the angle of attack on the golf ball. We all find ourselves in the woods at some point in a round of golf. This means we may have to hit over something or under something.

To go over something (hit it higher), you must make your angle of attack steeper to get the ball up in the air quicker than your normal ball flight. You can also move the ball up slightly in your stance if something is directly in front of you. Just realize the ball will lose some distance since it is going up quicker.

To go under something (hit it lower), you must make your angle of attack flatter to keep the ball lower than your normal ball flight. You can also move the ball back in your stance slightly to keep the ball very low. This ball will get on the ground quicker, so it will also tend to go a shorter distance than your normal ball flight.

Due to lost distance with both shots, you may require more club to get the ball to the target.”

Speaking of clubs, it’s a good idea to work on setting up yours to match your unique delivery. Also, proper ball position and proper stance are other factors that can help improve your AoA. For more tips on upgrading the strick and trajectory of your shots, we’re happy to help. Our friendly golf pros offer private and group golf lessons for people of all ages and skill levels. Moreover, playing our award-winning Weiskopf/Morrish-designed course is an enjoyable activity you’ll not soon forget. We invite you to experience it for yourself — call the Pro Shop to arrange lessons or book your tee time online today.

Have you ever wondered if a golf club membership at Harbor Club was worthwhile? Most consider all the benefits and compare them to the cost, as it’s an easy way to determine value. But you should also consider some other, often-overlooked factors. Here are eight more great reasons to invest in a golf membership at Harbor Club: 

Better accessibility

One of the top reasons members enjoy a golf membership at Harbor Club is that our course is more accessible – meaning we have more available tee times. That makes it much easier to play during your preferred time of day, not one that’s stipulated for you. From what we hear, it’s a bit more challenging to get a preferred tee time at other golf courses in Georgia’s Lake Country, even if you’re a member. 

It’s a wise investment

All Harbor Club golf memberships offer various forms of unlimited golf. The membership cost, compared to your average number of golf rounds, provides a good starting point for determining value. If you and your family play golf often or take advantage of other membership benefits frequently, then it’s easy to see that it’s a wise investment.

You receive an official handicap

To receive an official golf handicap, you must submit three scorecards to your club where you’re a member. An official handicap gives you the ability to enter golf tournaments where you have the chance to win prizes and other accolades. Our golf pros can help you with your official golf handicap and sign you up for fun, upcoming tournaments. 

You’ll improve your game

Having a golf membership encourages more play – and everyone knows that practice makes (almost) perfect. Plus, you’ll have access to Harbor Club’s practice areas, including the driving range, short-game facility, and putting green. Of course, our golf pros are happy to help you perfect your swing, learn new approaches, shave strokes off your average score, and more.

Golf is a healthy activity

Playing golf is an excellent way to stay in shape and keep your heart healthy. Whether you play a quick round after a tough day of work or go for a Saturday morning tee time with friends, golf is a relatively low-impact form of exercise, not to mention a fantastic way to blow off steam.

You’ll expand your network

A golf membership at Harbor Club helps forge new friendships and create close bonds. The prestige of membership is a benefit, especially if you work in an industry where image and networking are essential. You’ll socialize and ​​rub elbows with like-minded people. Plus, Harbor Club is perfect for informal business meetings, closing important deals, impressing new clients, or securing a promotion. 

In addition to access to our award-winning Weiskopf/Morrish-designed 18-hole championship golf course, club members also enjoy the following:

Access other amenities

• A state-of-the-art fitness center with LifeFitness equipment and exercise classes
• Outdoor tennis and pickleball courts
• Junior Olympic-sized swimming pool
• Full calendar of golf and social events
• The Grove recreation campus includes hiking and Fit-Trails®, a quarter-mile running track, a sports field, a dog park, Victory Garden, Sanctuary Pond, and more. 

Enjoy discounts 

All Harbor Club members enjoy special discounts in and around the club, including:

• 10% discount at the Boathouse Marina for dry boat storage and fuel purchases
• 10% discount at our The Clubhouse Restaurant and The Boathouse Restaurant
• 10% discount at the Pro Shop on apparel

Whatever your lifestyle, there’s a Harbor Club golf membership that fits your needs. Each of the following memberships is available with refundable options:

• Full Golf – unlimited golf any day the course is open
• Corporate Golf – unlimited golf for business owners/officers any day the course is open
• Junior Golf – unlimited golf for players under 40 years old
• Weekday Golf – unlimited golf Tuesdays through Fridays
• Social Membership – access to the amenity centers, sports courts, events, and more (Available for Harbor Club property owners only)

If you live in Georgia’s Lake Country, we cordially invite you to join the club. To learn more, contact us today. Our friendly Membership Director, Don Forchilli, is happy to chat, answer questions, email more information, or arrange an exclusive tour of our facilities.

You may recall that last month’s valuable golf tip regarded ball position. It showed how important it is to have the proper stance and how far away you are from the ball. To add to that knowledgeable advice, we’re sharing part two. It’s about the ball position relative to the left and right foot in your stance. Here’s what our Head Golf Professional, Keith Kelly, had to say:

“One of the most important things in the setup for a golfer is ball position. You can do everything correctly in a swing, but if the ball position is off, then you will not hit the ball solidly. The second part of the ball position is the position relative to the left and right foot in the stance.

The position relative to the left and right foot in the stance – If you put the ball too far in front of your stance, you will tend to hit low on the face of the club, and you will roll the ball on the ground. If you do get it in the air, then the ball will tend to go left because the face will start to close. If the ball position is too far back in the stance, you will tend to hit on top of the ball and drive it into the ground. If you do get it in the air, the ball will tend to go right because the face of the club has not squared up yet.

To get the correct position, put the ball about a club head inside the lead foot. For shorter irons, your feet will be close together, putting the ball in the middle of the stance. For mid-irons, move back the right foot (if you are right-handed) so that your center moves back more behind the ball. For long irons, you do the same thing. Relative to the lead foot, the ball position will not change, but your center will move behind the ball more. Only when you go to woods or drivers will the ball move forward in the stance.

If you work on being consistent with this setup of ball position, then your strikes and trajectory will also become more consistent in your rounds.”

For more ways golf tips that are sure to improve your game, we’re happy to help – especially if you are learning to play golf. Our friendly golf pros offer private and group lessons for people of all ages and skill levels. What’s more, playing our award-winning Weiskopf/Morrish-designed course is an enjoyable activity you’ll not soon forget. We invite you to experience it for yourself — call the Pro Shop to arrange lessons or book your tee time online today.

Did you know that many golfers make mistakes before they even begin to swing their clubs? That’s why we’re offering a golf tip on proper ball position. It’s wise to double-check it before taking your club back. Why? Because if you get your ball position right, your odds of hitting a great shot will drastically improve. But, like most things in golf, correctly positioning your golf ball may seem like a simple task, but it’s actually somewhat complicated.

We recently asked our Head Golf Professional, Keith Kelly, for his input and advice on proper ball position. This time, he’s offering two strategic tips for your pre-shot checklist, the first of which is below. 

“One of the most important things in the setup for a golfer is ball position. You can do everything correctly in a swing, but if the ball position is off, then you will not hit the ball solidly. Ball position consists of two points. 

How far away you are from the ball – If you are too far away from the ball and reaching, it stops you from using your lower body correctly. This, in turn, affects the amount of speed you can generate to hit the golf ball. If you are too close to the ball, you will tend to put your weight on your heels and stand up out of the shot. To be in the correct position, get in an athletic stance with the weight on the balls of your feet. Then let your arms hang from your shoulders without reaching out. This should put you in the correct position and balance to hit the ball more consistently. 

Next month we will discuss the second part of ball position – the position relative to the left and right foot in the stance.”

Please stay tuned to our blog for the second tip in this series for improving your ball position. As Keith alluded, it’s all about the stance. 

For more ways to improve your game, we’re happy to help – especially if you are learning to play golf. Our friendly golf pros offer private and group lessons for people of all ages and skill levels. What’s more, playing our award-winning Weiskopf/Morrish-designed course is an enjoyable activity you’ll not soon forget. We invite you to experience it for yourself — call the Pro Shop to arrange lessons, or book your tee time online today.

Those that enjoy Masters Week in and around the Augusta, Georgia area know how incredible the event is for visiting golfers. The tournament represents an opportunity to play some memorable tracks, many designed by legendary Masters champions themselves. In fact, Harbor Club on Lake Oconee was designed by the late Tom Weiskopf (a four-time Masters runner-up himself) and Jay Morrish. Our award-winning championship course winds through wooded hillsides, skirts four creeks, and touches upon Lake Oconee six times. 

Per the renowned Weiskopf/Morrish-design, our Lake Oconee course is challenging yet fun to play. It’s constructed to embolden and encourage players to enjoy an epic game. Here, you’ll play two drivable par 4s that can have some rather impressive outcomes. For those who are aware, you know it’s all about risk and reward.

There are some fascinating similarities between Augusta National and Harbor Club, and over the years, many people have made it a tradition to play our course during Masters Week. Being just a few miles off Interstate 20 and only about a one-hour drive from either Atlanta or Augusta, it makes for an easy and convenient stop. Incoming golfers flying into Atlanta are wise to include a round at Harbor Club, as it’s an ideal way to break up, add to, or enhance a trip to Augusta National. There are several options this year for our exclusive Masters Week Golf Rates:

Masters Week Golf Package Rates

$235.00 + tax – 7:30 am – 2:50 pm

$209.00 + tax – 3:00 pm – Close

$80.00 Replay special

$209 + tax – Groups of 8

$179 + tax – Groups of 12 or more

$80 + tax – Rental set of clubs

Hotel Specials

$179 + tax – For guests of the Lodge on Lake Oconee, Tru by Hilton, Hampton Inn Madison, and Holiday Inn Express, Madison

Pricing for Harbor Club Member’s Guests

$90 + tax – Accompanied guest

$159 + tax – Unaccompanied guest

All Masters Week rates include golf cart, green fee, range balls, and a Masters-themed Harbor Club Hat. Masters Week Golf rates are available for tee times from March 31, 2023 – April 9, 2023. Tee times will be in high demand during Masters Week, so please don’t wait to make a reservation. Preview our course online and book your tee time by calling the Pro Shop at (706) 453-4414 or emailing kkelly@harborclub.com. We look forward to seeing you soon and making your Masters Week experience memorable.

A new year is almost here and we’re sharing another great golf tip from our head golf professional, Keith Kelly this week to kickstart your 2023 golf season!

Want to be a great putter? It’s attainable if you concentrate on your putting speed and distance control. Controlling your speed more effectively on the greens helps get the ball closer to the hole and will undoubtedly provide you with a better score.

However, even if you read the greens correctly, your chances of sinking that putt diminish significantly if you don’t have the right speed. Attaining it is not as elusive as you may think, and therefore, the motive for our latest golf tip.

“Over half of our strokes can be on the putting green. It is important to understand that speed control can help you eliminate three putts and help you make more putts. Most students who have a problem with speed control are using too much wrist action in their putts. A good way to eliminate this problem is to make sure you have the correct grip on the putter.

Whether you are putting conventional or cross-handed does not matter. Placing the grip in the palm of your hand on both hands will promote less wrist action and allow the shoulders to move the club instead of flipping your wrists. This will make your speed control much more consistent and will help eliminate three putts. Once you’re comfortable with the new grip, work on drills from different distances, along with practicing short putts from around the hole. You will be putting much better in no time, and your scores will come down.“

Spending more time challenging yourself on the practice greens is good advice. Put more purpose into your practice putts. By doing so, you’ll notice improvements on the course later when it truly counts. 

Also, consider trying out a new putter. Simply changing the feel of your putter can be advantageous. Our friendly team at the Pro Shop would be happy to help you experiment with some different options. 

Another recommendation for improving your overall performance on the course is indulging in a few golf lessons. Our knowledgeable golf pros can provide you with excellent, personalized advice that will easily take your game from good to great. 

No matter how you decide to give your game a boost, we invite you to play our award-winning Weiskopf/Morrish-designed course. It’s a fun and rewarding golf experience that you’ll not soon forget. Book your tee time online today. We look forward to seeing you at Harbor Club in 2023!

Happy New Year! 

The basic rules of etiquette are ingrained in most people, especially in the South. Common courtesy and Southern hospitality include fundamental protocols, like saying please, thank you, and holding the door open for the person behind you. However, some of the worst etiquette faux pas aren’t so readily obvious, especially when playing golf. In the past, we touched on proper etiquette on the putting green. To expand on that, here are six other mistakes to avoid on the golf course. 

Playing when it’s someone else’s turn

Playing out of turn means a player attempts to play their ball when it’s not their turn to do so. This violates the order in which strokes are played. In certain forms of golf, such as match play, playing out of turn is highly frowned upon, so pay close attention, and play only when it’s your turn.

Violating the basic dress code

Avoid embarrassment by wearing proper garb on the golf course. Most clubs stipulate that men wear collared shirts and women wear modest-looking ones, usually with collared tops. Refrain from wearing t-shirts, denim, backward caps, or cargo shorts. If you’re unsure about the dress code, call the Pro Shop ahead of time to find out for sure. 

Walking in a player’s line 

Walking into someone’s line is not only distracting, but it’s also disrespectful. And while there may be no physical effect on the putt your fellow player is about to make (unless the greens are spongy and impressionable), it’s just plain rude. Avoid the act. It’ll show you care about others and their success at play.

Giving unsolicited advice

Giving your golf partners unsolicited advice is generally considered a “no-no.” However, if you’re playing with a friend or family member who is a beginner golfer, it may be ok. In those rare instances, be thoughtful in your delivery and avoid coming across as condescending. Overall, it’s best only to give advice when asked. It’s not worth the social risk.

Failing at fixes

The golden rule of golf is, “Always leave the course in better condition than you found it.” Why? It’s polite and common courtesy for the players behind you. What’s more, it’s the right thing to do for the turf. At the very least, fix your own pitch marks and replace divots. After hitting your shot out of a bunker, rake the sand until it’s smooth. If you come across toppled stakes, downed ropes, or overturned tee markers, take a moment to put them back. Your kindness will likely be rewarded with good karma.

Hitting a ball into the group ahead of you

Never hit a ball when there’s a group ahead of you and within your distance. It’s always best to err on the side of caution. However, if you or someone in your group happens to hit a shot that could potentially hit another golfer, always yell, “Fore!” That way, golfers can duck and take cover to avoid getting hit or injured.

When you’re at the golf course, you want to have fun – just like everyone else. So in your interactions with other players, think about how you’d like to be treated and be friendly and personable with others. Show that you care by helping tend to the course too. Good golf etiquette equates to a better playing experience for everyone, including yourself. So see for yourself and book your tee time at Harbor Club today.

Our Instagram friend, Golf Lake Oconee, recently shared a helpful post with great tips for beating the heat on the golf course. Considering that summer is in full swing (pun intended), we wanted to expand on that to help keep golfers safe while having fun during their rounds.

So here are some tips and tricks for staying cool and enjoying golf during a hot summer day:

Play in the morning

Go for an early morning tee time to help avoid the hottest parts of the day. An 8:00 AM tee time will have you off the course at a reasonable time. The only issue about playing earlier in the day is that other golfers are vying for the same tee times, so book yours in advance to reserve your spot. 

Stay hydrated

Make sure you’re fully hydrated before your tee time. Bring a frozen bottle of water with you to sip on throughout the day. And while water is great, sports drinks are better since they provide electrolytes. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as those will dehydrate your body quickly. 

Freeze your golf towel

The night before your tee time, take a clean golf or hand towel, saturate it with water, and freeze it overnight. Then, pack the frozen towel in a cooler when you head out to the course. It’ll be a refreshing cold compress on your skin when you need a quick way to cool off.

Wear performance clothing

Utilize moisture-wicking clothing that will help keep you cool and dry. Lighter colors work best as dark colors absorb too much heat. In addition, some performance clothing offers special sun-block fabrics with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), which will help further protect your skin. And don’t forget to wear a comfortable, breathable hat with a band that absorbs perspiration. (Note: Our golf pros are happy to make recommendations and help you pick out stylish, high-performance gear in the Pro Shop.)

Ride in a golf cart

We admire all those who walk the golf course, as it’s an excellent workout with multiple benefits. However, on a hot day, it’s not advisable. Be kind to your body. A golf cart will make life a bit easier for toting yourself and your clubs around the course. Plus, it offers a nice breeze and welcome shade. 

Use your golf umbrella

Just like you would use it for a rain storm, you can just as easily use your golf umbrella to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. You’ll be glad to quickly pop it open during times when there’s no other shade available.

Wear sunscreen and sunglasses

Check your sunscreen to make sure it’s not expired. The expired stuff will not work anymore, so invest in a new bottle. Go for a brand that is sweat-proof. Mineral-based sunscreens work best as they physically block out the sun’s rays. And don’t forget to wear your sunglasses as they’ll help shield your eyes from the sun and improve your eyesight around the course. 

Listen to your body

If you don’t feel well, take it as a warning. Take a break and listen to your body. Just like you would with a bad thunderstorm, take heed and don’t be afraid to leave early. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Nourish yourself

After you’ve finished up your game, be sure to head over to the “19th hole.” At Harbor Club, that’s The Clubhouse Restaurant. You and your fellow players can replenish yourselves with refreshing beverages and lunch while enjoying a great view of 18. 

So don’t let the summer weather prevent you from playing golf at Harbor Club. Book your tee time today. We look forward to seeing you on our championship golf course soon. 

In 2021, Golfweek magazine stated that people were leaving densely-populated areas in search of more space. As a result, many found golf course homes to be a wise real estate investment. We’re not surprised. Thanks to our incredible Sales Director, Kathy Philips, Harbor Club achieved a record-breaking $53.3 million in real estate transactions last year. It shows that home buyers see the value of investing in a debt-free, amenity-rich golf and lake community like ours.

If you’re in the market to purchase a golf course home, here are seven tips to consider: 

Location, location, location

The location of your golf community matters. Is it in an area of the country that you love? What is the weather like throughout the year? Are there other things to do nearby besides playing golf? You’ll want to be near quality restaurants, medical care, grocery stores, shopping, and other fun year-round activities. If travel is important, you’ll want to be near an airport as well.

Cost of living

Think about where you can maximize the value of your new home investment. To get the most bang for your buck, the cost of living is an essential factor in choosing your location. Also, consider the other expenses of owning a golf course home, like club dues and membership fees. A seasoned real estate agent can advise you of the actual overall cost.

Home placement

Whether you’re interested in purchasing a resale or newly constructed golf home, note how the house is situated on the property. The view might be great, but you also want to avoid wayward golf balls. Granted, if you live between two holes or behind a tee box, there’s no need to worry. Nonetheless, privacy is another factor to consider. You may see golfers all day long – and they might see you too. There are effective ways to alleviate these concerns, and an excellent real estate agent who understands these issues can offer advice.

Amenities

Golf club communities are attractive to all kinds of people, not just golfers. Those communities that offer a wide variety of amenities are particularly appealing. People enjoy living where they can easily access things like a well-equipped gym, pool, restaurant, hiking trails, dog parks, tennis, and pickleball courts, to name a few. Great amenities mean you can enjoy a great social life both on and off the golf course.

Community rules

Most golf communities have rules in place to help protect the value of the residences and the community itself. Educate yourself on the rules, regulations, and design guidelines that the golf community stipulates to understand your role as a homeowner.

Visit and play the course

Be sure to visit the communities you are interested in and play golf there multiple times, ideally at different times of the year. Talk to residents and other club members while you’re there. Ask what they like best about living in the community. Also, check out the surrounding area, especially the schools, stores, medical, and other facilities that you plan on using. 

Work with a knowledgeable realtor

Ensure that your realtor truly knows the local area and the values of the homes within it. If a golf community you like has its own real estate team, utilize them. A professional, seasoned, highly knowledgeable community agent will know the neighborhood better — especially if they live there.

For more helpful real estate guidance, we can help – especially if you’re looking for a golf home in Georgia’s Lake Country. Our Director of Sales, Kathy Phillips, would love to help you find the home of your dreams. See our current real estate opportunities at Harbor Club, and feel free to contact us with any questions or schedule a tour.

A few years ago, we shared an article, “Best Golf Communities in Georgia: 10 Reasons Why Harbor Club is Tops.” And today, with over 11,000 hits, it certainly resonated. So, we’re revisiting the best Georgia golf communities subject because there are ten more reasons why Harbor Club is tops.

1 – Harbor Club is a debt-free community

How many lux golf and lake communities do you know of that are entirely debt-free? Harbor Club is one of the few, and The Matney family, who owns and operates Harbor Club, intends to keep it that way. The family is very involved in the community and works hard to continuously add more value for Harbor Club residents and members. As a result, those who live here take great pride in their neighborhood and have tremendous peace of mind knowing it’s financially secure. 

2 – Harbor Club is a modern country club

What exactly do you envision when you think of a “country club”? In your mind’s eye, the image likely includes a picturesque golf course. Golf is a fantastic and fun sport, but there is so much more to a modern country club than that. Here at Harbor Club, we’ve created a more contemporary club culture with a wide array of offerings and experiences that entice both golfers and non-golfers alike. The country club of today is more akin to a family-centric activity center. Besides the standard offerings of exclusive golf, tennis, and swimming, many other fun-filled fitness options and activities are available, like pickleball and yoga. What’s more, there are multiple social, leisurely, and educational events for all ages to appreciate here.

3 – Harbor Club is perfect for families

We’re excited about the new generation of young families who’ve made Harbor Club home in their pursuit of a better quality of life. They love living here in a thriving, safe environment where fun and beauty abound. Plus, there are several excellent educational institutions nearby, with one of the best charter schools in the state of Georgia located just a few miles from our gates. In addition, Harbor Club boasts over 80% full-time residents — an impressive feat for a resort-style, lake, and golf community such as ours. We truly live, work, and play here. 

4 – Harbor Club is idyllic for working remotely

The work-from-home trend isn’t expected to slow down, and some may never return to the office. Since the pandemic, several companies have increasingly allowed more employees to work remotely. Today, most people work and get educated from anywhere there’s high-speed internet access. Harbor Club homes are well-equipped with thoughtfully-designed home office spaces too. Those that live and work here do so with gorgeous views of Lake Oconee, a pristine golf course, peaceful woods, or a tranquil pond. They enjoy their lunch breaks like never before, with access to tons of fantastic amenities located right outside their door. So why go back to the office? Many have opted to make better use of their valuable time and continue working from home.

5 – Harbor Club offers top-notch, resort-style living 

When you work (and learn) from home, it’s nice to get a break now and then. Our residents are making the most of those respites by heading outside. Resort-style living at Harbor Club offers plenty of quick, fun things to do. You could bring the dog to the dog park, practice on the putting green, hit a bucket of balls at the driving range, go for a quick run or walk at the track, go for a boat ride on Lake Oconee, grab a delicious lunch, or indulge in a zen-like yoga class. When tons of fun options are readily available, it’s easy to take a break and enjoy well-earned recreational endeavors.

6 – Harbor Club is growing with new neighborhoods

We offer several beautiful neighborhoods within the Harbor Club community. We most recently unveiled the newest, The Enclave at Heron Ridge, built by Southvine Homes. The well-designed ranch homes are perfect for homebuyers who wish to age in place. The houses are configured for improved accessibility and easy, first-floor living – all without sacrificing luxury. With a fast-growing senior population in the U.S., we understand the requirements and strengths of older adults. We happily cater well to both the young and the “young at heart” with neighborhoods and impressive amenities that successfully combine the two. 

7 – Golf membership options abound

For those interested in golf memberships in Georgia, especially in Lake Country, Harbor Club offers a wide variety of options that cater to many lifestyles. There’s Full Golf, Corporate Golf, Junior Golf, Weekday Golf, and Social Memberships available, as are refundable options. A Harbor Club membership is both distinctive and rewarding. With it, you can promote your professionalism and conduct business in a unique and impressive way. So whatever you’re looking for — increased wellness, more networking opportunities, better friendships, or a haven from trying times—you’ve got it with an exclusive Harbor Club membership. 

8 – Kids love living at Harbor Club

Harbor Club offers a warm and inviting environment where kids socialize and create close friendships outside of school. What’s more, those interactions help children learn how to interact, respect, and behave around other kids and adults. Harbor Club caters to kids with fun events and activities like Junior Golf Camp, Breakfast with Santa, Easter egg hunts, Halloween costume parties, golf cart parades, corn hole, golf lessons, comedians, magicians, pool parties, playground, dog park, and more. 

9 – Harbor Club homes offer a great return on investment

Multiple factors make a Harbor Club home an excellent investment, especially since our location has become such a sought-after place to live. All of our homes are built by highly-vetted, quality builders. You’ll see that each house is perfectly situated to capitalize on gorgeous views of our rolling terrain, lovely woods, well-maintained green spaces, golf course, and (of course) Lake Oconee. Plus, Harbor Club is only an hour away from Atlanta and its bustling Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. What’s more, having one of the top-rated schools in the nation, Lake Oconee Academy, right outside our gates, is a huge asset, not to mention the nearby restaurants, stores, and an excellent, award-winning hospital too. And then there’s this…

10 – Harbor Club is the only Southern Living Inspired Community in Georgia

Southern Living Inspired Communities are a distinct collection of residential developments that exemplify the Southern Living lifestyle. The neighborhoods are hand-picked by Southern Living editors – choosing only those marked by charm, taste, and a Southern spirit that embodies a distinctive pride of place. Each community offers the best of Southern Living-inspired architecture, embraces the natural beauty of the Southern landscape, and creates multiple environments that foster gatherings. Harbor Club on Lake Oconee is the epitome of all these attributes and is proud to be the only Southern Living Inspired Community in the great state of Georgia. 

We invite you to see and experience Harbor Club for yourself. Once you visit, you’ll understand why Harbor Club is one of the best golf communities in Georgia. Contact us so we can start planning your visit today.

The game of golf is more popular than ever. Our award-winning course happily welcomes the many players indulging in our championship course – several of which are younger golfers. In fact, 2020 saw the biggest gain in youth golfers participating in the game since Tiger’s 1997 Masters win. That momentum continues to this day. So, what’s the draw?

We recently chatted with head golf pro Keith Kelly to get his thoughts on why golf is perfect for our youth. Here’s what we learned:

1. Excellent exercise
   Golf offers a terrific way to stay fit, increase endurance, and lose a few pounds. It gets the blood pumping because of all the walking, bending, reaching, stretching, and swinging of a club. Those types of exercises improve both strength and balance. Better yet, golf is an excellent exercise in patience too. 
2. Fresh air and beauty abound
   Playing golf is a great way to get clean, fresh air and sunshine — a nice dose of vitamin D. Plus, it’s a peaceful sport. Our course has especially gorgeous vistas and views. Here, the quiet solitude and sounds of nature offer a calming sense of tranquility.
3. Stress reducer plus other health benefits
   Speaking of calm, golf is a sport that does a great job of reducing stress, among other remarkable health benefits. Playing requires focus on the game and releases endorphins that help combat anxiety and depression. What’s more, playing golf can improve a player’s posture. Better posture boosts confidence and self-esteem – both significant assets for our youth today.
4. Cultivates and grows friendships
   Golf is an excellent way to make new friends, especially through our Junior Golf Camp program. Enjoying a round, hitting a bucket of balls, and practicing putts are all fantastic ways for friends to spend quality time together. There’s plenty of time to chat between shots and tons of fun playing and practicing together. 
5. Almost anyone can play
   Golf is an inclusive game. It’s available to almost anyone, regardless of age, gender, or size. Some kids may feel left out of certain athletics, like contact sports and other traditional team events. That’s not the case with golf. Plus, it’s a sport that can be enjoyed now and for decades to come.
6. Strengthens family bonds
   Considering that most anyone can play, golf is a game where youth can enjoy a round with multiple family members. Whether it be sisters, brothers, moms, dads, grandmas, grandpas, cousins – it doesn’t matter. The entire family can join in the fun.

We’ve happily welcomed the uptick of young golfers to Harbor Club and would love to help your young ones start playing too. If you have any questions on how to help your children get started with golf, we’re happy to assist. We currently offer discounted rates on individual lessons, a popular Junior Golf Camp in the summer, and more. For details, give our Pro Shop a call today at (706) 453-4414. We look forward to seeing your kids on the course at Harbor Club soon.

Masters Week around the Augusta area offers a unique opportunity for visiting golfers: the chance to play some fantastic tracks – some of which are designed by legendary Masters champions themselves. Take our course, Harbor Club on Lake Oconee, for example. Designed by Tom Weiskopf (a four-time Masters runner-up himself) and Jay Morrish, it winds through wooded hillsides, skirts four creeks, and touches upon Georgia’s second-largest lake six times. 

As per the typical Weiskopf-Morrish course, ours is challenging yet great fun to play. It’s designed and constructed to embolden and encourage players to enjoy a memorable game. In fact, there are two drivable par 4s that can have some rather impressive outcomes. Here, it’s all about risk and reward.

The best part? You’re invited to experience golf at Harbor Club during Masters Week. Rated #6 on Golfweek’s Best Courses You Can Play in Georgia, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to discover the joy of playing here for yourself. Being equidistant from Atlanta and Augusta (a little over an hour either way,) incoming golfers flying into Atlanta are wise to include golf at Harbor Club to break up, add to, or enhance their trip to Augusta National. Here are the exclusive package options available for 2022:

Masters Week Golf Package Rates

$225 + tax – 7:30 AM – 2:50 PM

$199 + tax – 3:00 PM – Close

$80 replay special

$199 + tax – Groups of eight

$169 + tax – Groups of 12 or more

$70 + tax – Rental set of clubs

Hotel Specials

$169 + tax – For guests of the Lodge on Lake Oconee, Tru by Hilton, Hampton Inn Madison, and Holiday Inn Express, Madison

Pricing for Harbor Club Member’s Guests

$85 + tax – Accompanied guest

$149 + tax – Unaccompanied guest

These rates are effective from April 1-10, 2022, and include golf cart rental, range balls, and a special Harbor Club cap.

Please don’t delay. Tee times are in high demand during Masters Week. Call (800) 505-GOLF or 706-705-5038 to book your tee time at Harbor Club today…and feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

We’re looking forward to seeing you and helping make your Masters Week golf experiences outside Augusta National just as memorable as those within.

The grass used on a golf course is known as turfgrass. Turfgrass has to be pretty tough, handle plenty of traffic, and repair itself quickly from damage. The type of turf grass used on courses can make a big difference in a golfer’s experience, with premium golf courses using the best of the best. That’s why Harbor Club utilizes A1/A4 bentgrass on its greens — making it a dominant course to play in the fall and spring. 

More formally known as Penn A-1 / Penn A-4 creeping bentgrass, it is a combination of two proven performers that, when blended, make for an outstanding playing surface. In Georgia, it’s a cool-season grass that thrives from October through May. It prefers a cooler, less humid climate for ideal growth.

When asked about Harbor Club’s greens, our head golf pro, Keith Kelly, recently shared this fascinating fact with Pete Pappas (@pgapappas) on Instagram:

“They’re A1/A4 bentgrass greens. They’re the same thing that’s at Augusta National. We don’t quite have the SubAir systems that they do, but they are very nice greens. In the spring and fall, they generally run anywhere from 13 to 15, depending on how firm our superintendent decides to make them. In the summertime, we slow them down a little bit to make them survive, but they’re still usually running between 11 and 12.”

Some of the things that make A1/A4 bentgrass greens exceptional are a quick spring green-up, a dark green color, a fine leaf texture, outstanding disease resistance, a dense and aggressive growth habit, and its ability to withstand hot and cold temperatures. 

A1/A4 creeping bentgrass thrives on low mowing and a dry environment. When A1/A4 bentgrass greens are properly maintained, they provide the highest-quality putting surface with a very tight and consistent turf. It’s both smooth and grainless, which is why Harbor Club’s greens run from 13 to 15 during the fall. October and November offer the best greens conditions since those months are usually dryer than the winter months. 

Golfers prefer our championship golf course for many reasons:

• The high-quality A1/A4 bentgrass greens make for a superior, smoother, and faster playing surface, especially in the fall and spring.
• The incredible course design by award-winning golf architects Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, especially with its challenging but fun risk/reward holes.
• The course touches the shoreline of Lake Oconee on six different holes and skirting four creeks, making for a stunning backdrop during play.
• Most importantly, the course is thoughtfully and meticulously maintained all year long by Superintendent Jeff Miller and his hardworking team.

We invite you to experience our course for yourself, especially this fall when the greens are at their very best. Book your tee time now for an enjoyable round that you won’t soon forget.

With the gorgeous fall season just around the corner, golfers are looking forward to playing our championship golf course. Sure, golfing in the summer is tons of fun, but it’s also pretty warm here in Lake Country. So, it’s no surprise that we’re welcoming the cooler weather, not to mention the colorful leaves and crisp air. But besides the milder conditions, here are five other reasons why fall golf is a favorite. 

Our best grass greens are at their best

Harbor Club’s greens are bentgrass. It’s renowned as the preferred cool-season grass where true ball roll is the priority for the surface. What’s more, bentgrass greens are at their peak in autumn. So if you like a firm, smooth, and quick playing surface, then fall is the perfect time to play Harbor Club.

Stunning fall colors

The fall foliage on Lake Oconee is a joy to see and experience, especially with the unique perspectives you can only encounter on the golf course. It’s breathtaking scenery. There are many colors — oranges, golds, and reds, shimmering glints of light on the lake, and a bright blue sky. Even if you’re not playing as well as you’d like, being surrounded by all that beauty is certainly a mood booster. 

The “leaf rule” applies

Speaking of foliage…and although not an actual golf regulation, many play by the “leaf rule” in autumn. Essentially, if you can’t find your ball in an area with lots of fallen leaves, then you’ll take a one-stroke penalty and drop another ball. Relaxed rules like this one mean less stress, quicker play, and more fun for all. 

It’s the best way to tailgate

Everyone knows that fall means football. No matter who you’re rooting for, we’re big fans of the sport in the South. So we ask you this — what’s better than strolling off the 18th green right in time for noon kickoff? It’s doable, just as long as you book an early tee time. Of course, you could always head over to the 19th hole (aka The Clubhouse Restaurant.) There we’ll happily serve you ice-cold beverages and delicious food while you watch the game and cheer for your favorite teams. 

Deals and discounts at the Pro Shop

The changing of the season also means changing out the inventory at the Pro Shop. So be on the lookout for exceptional bargains on brand-new equipment and performance apparel this autumn. Clearing out inventory helps us make room for next season’s shipment of top-notch goods, so it’s a win-win for everyone. 

No matter when you play at Harbor Club, our Golf Course Superintendent, Jeff Miller, and his hard-working team do a fantastic job keeping our course in excellent shape. Fall is an ideal time to play, but our mild climate offers the ability to play nearly any day of the year. We invite you to experience our award-winning course for yourself — book your tee time today.

Minding your manners on the putting green is as important as your etiquette on the rest of the golf course. Everyone knows that a bit of courtesy goes a long way toward gaining respect from other golfers, maintaining good conditions, and enhancing your pace of play. Here are nine tips to remember for a better experience on the putting green, not only for yourself but for other players too. 

Avoid marking the green 

The surface of a putting green is delicate. If you stand on any part of it for an extended period of time, you’ll leave footmarks behind and may even ruin the grass. If you foresee standing in one place on the green for too long, lay a hand towel down to protect the grass. Better yet, move more and avoid standing in the same place for too long. 

Watch for other player’s putts

Before hitting a long putt, check to ensure that your path is clear. If there are other golfers nearby, avoid putting or walking through their line. It’s ok to putt and walk around other players, but it’s not wise to putt or walk through their line. This same rule applies not only goes for the putting green but to the golf course too. 

Time your putting drills

Putting drills are great for perfecting your game but avoid doing them when the green is busy with other golfers. Putting drills can take up a lot of real estate, which can be annoying. It forces others to work around you. Since the practice green is a shared space, you’ll want to conduct your drills when there are fewer people about.

Avoid holes other people are using

We get it — on rare occasions, the green might be so busy that you and another golfer are putting to the same hole. If available, try practicing on a different one. That way, both you and the other golfer have more space to practice without negatively impacting each other’s sessions. 

Ditch chipping

The putting green is best utilized for putting, not chipping. Chipping creates damage on the green, which can ruin other golfer’s practice time, especially if you don’t repair your marks. What’s more, chipping allows a higher propensity for accidentally hitting another player — something you certainly want to avoid. Just remember, putting takes priority. 

Keep talking to a minimum

Golfers come to the putting green to practice not to strike up a conversation. It’s ok to ask a quick question — perhaps about the putter they’re using or a strategy they’re trying. Otherwise, it’s best to leave them alone so they can practice in peace.

Use three golf balls, tops

Using more than three golf balls on the putting green gets messy fast. We understand that you’re trying to better understand the speed of the greens, but you can learn a lot from utilizing just three balls. More than that, and it’ll take you longer to practice. So don’t be a ball hog. Ideally, one ball is best, especially if other golfers are patiently waiting to practice too.

Flag on the play

You aren’t required to remove the flagsticks (or pins) from the holes but if you do, set them to the fringe. If you lay them on the green, they’ll likely be in the way of another putter’s line. Besides, some like to leave the pins in the hole because they feel it increases the probability of making a putt. 

Pack in, pack out

Just like you would on a hike or a trip to the park, what you bring in is what you bring out. The goal is to preserve the land for all to enjoy. The same goes for a putting green. You’ll want to leave the putting green as pristine as you found it. So before heading out, check to be sure you’ve picked up your tees and golf balls and put all the pins back in the holes. 

We invite you to not only utilize our well-maintained putting green to fine-tune your game but to play a memorable round on our award-winning Weiskopf/Morrish-designed Lake Oconee golf course. You can easily book your tee-time online. While here, feel free to stop by the Pro Shop for some helpful advice on putters. Whether you plan on putting, driving, or playing (or all three), we look forward to providing you with a fantastic golf experience here at Harbor Club. See you soon.

Golf tournaments take on a whole new meaning when you change the format. Each type offers a unique twist on your game — making your typical experience into something atypical and a ton of fun. New and different strategies come into play with each, but what exactly are those formats and how are they played?

We reached out to our head golf pro, Keith Kelly, to define some of the more popular golf tournament formats enjoyed at Harbor Club. 

Alternate Shot

With this type of tournament, golfers compete in teams of two and use only one ball per team. Each player takes alternate shots until the hole is completed.

Shootout

With this type of tournament, either two or three-person teams play alternate-shot against other teams. Up to two teams are eliminated on each hole, based on the highest score. After that, play continues until two teams are left to compete for the championship.

Nassau

This tournament is usually done in a team format as well. It’s made up of three games: low score on the front nine, low score on the back nine, and low score over the full 18.

Blitz Points

Under this unique system, golfers receive points typically based on the following scale:

0 point – Double Bogey

1 point – Bogey

2 points – Par

4 points – Birdie

6 points – Eagle

You subtract your handicap strokes from 36, and that is how many points you have to pull. For example, if you have a 14 handicap, you’d subtract 14 from 36, showing you need 22 points to break even. If you get less than that, you’ll end up with a negative number. For example, if you got 20 points, you’ll be at -2. If you pulled 24 points, then you’re in positive territory with +2. The higher plus points you have, the better.

Scramble

The Scramble is a typical tournament played for golf associations and charity events. It is usually played with four-person teams, but two-person scrambles are popular, too. In a scramble, each player tees off on each hole. The best of the tee shots is chosen, and the other players pick up their balls and play their second shots from that location. Then the best of the second shots is determined, and the others play their third shots from that spot. Play continues in that manner until the ball is holed.

Texas Scramble

Texas scramble differs slightly from a regular scramble format in that players are required to each contribute at least four drives throughout the series.

Best Ball

Best ball tournaments usually involve two-person teams where each player plays their own ball throughout the round. After each hole, the player with the lowest score (or the “best ball”) serves as the team’s score. 

Superintendent’s Revenge

This is usually a four-person scramble with the golf course set up in a bunch of crazy ways. You’ll find wacky obstacles created by the turf care team, like tractors placed on the course, teeing off from non-traditional spots, small holes instead for standard size, bizarre obstacles on the greens, and more. 

The Superintendent’s Revenge is one of Harbor Club’s most popular golf tournaments. Others that are more specific to Harbor Club include:

Member-Guest

This tournament usually consists of flighted nine-hole matches. There are traditionally six teams in a flight, and each plays a round-robin of five matches so that everyone gets to play each team one time. Each hole is worth one point, plus one point for winning the nine-hole match. For this tournament, we limit the total points to seven until the last match, in which 10 points can be won. It’s done this way to keep it close (and more interesting) until the end of the tournament.

Member-Member

This tournament consists of two-person teams in flights playing different nine-hole formats over two days. For example, our upcoming MGA Member-Member tournament in July includes four formats: Texas Scramble and 2-Player Scramble on day one, and Texas Alternate Shot and Two-Player Best Ball on day two.

Couples Golf

These tournaments are a fun and laid-back way for couples to mix and mingle on and off the golf course. Couples meet at the driving range twice a month around 5 pm, and tee-off is a shotgun start at 5:30 pm. Everyone plays nine holes, either on the front or back nine, and afterward, gather at the Clubhouse Restaurant for a fun social hour with drinks and food specials. 

Club Championships

These tournaments involve individual stroke play. They are usually flighted by age groups that play from different tees. 

Harbor Club’s Men’s Golf Association (MGA) has playdays every Wednesday and Friday. They are usually individual stroke play, two-person teams, and four-person teams. They also have two-day weekend tournaments with varying formats (like the Member-Member tournament mentioned above.)

Harbor Club’s Ladies Golf Association (LGA) has playdays every Thursday with a different format each week. 

Have you ever thought about hosting a golf tournament? Our award-winning championship golf course welcomes all types of golf formats. We’d be happy to provide more information on tournament pricing and team up with you to make your tournament a memorable, fun event for all. Contact us today to learn more.

Father’s Day is right around the corner. Did you get a gift for dad (or grandad) yet? If not, we’ve got you covered. Of course, you can always treat pop to a memorable round of golf on our award-winning Weiskopf/Morrish-designed course on Lake Oconee. But there are other fun things you can give dad too. Here are some unique, golf-themed ideas:

Gather gifts from our Pro Shop 

The Harbor Club Pro Shop is your one-stop-shop for fantastic Father’s Day gifts. Give him some great new golf accessories that he both wants and needs. We’ve got high-quality, name-brand tees, polo shirts, balls, gloves, hats, shoes, clubs, jackets, and so much more. Stop by and ask about what’s exciting and new. You’ll be sure to walk away with some wonderful presents for pop.

Give a golf club fitting

The Pro Shop offers more than just top-notch merchandise. Help enhance dad’s golf game with better fitting clubs. Our golf pros are happy to help. Make an appointment to bring dad in so they can take his measurements, ask a few questions, and watch him swing some clubs. They’ll also get him on the range to hit balls, use a lie board, a launch monitor, and more — all to determine which clubs work best for him. It’s a great experience, especially if dad discovers the perfect clubs.

Get fit in Men’s Core for Golf class

This is a new class offered by one of our most popular fitness instructors, Mo Brower. It’s perfect for any gentleman golfers looking for a competitive edge. A strong core is a key to success on the golf course. Try it, and you’ll be amazed at how it improves your game over time. The class is available to Harbor Club members and their guests on Monday mornings from 8-8:45 AM. See our e-newsletter for details on how to sign up.

Practice makes perfect

Don’t have time to play a round of golf? That’s ok. Have a blast hitting a bucket of balls at the driving range together. Or get in some practice putts at the putting green. Or do both. Either is a fun bonding experience for the whole family to enjoy…but especially with dad.

Splurge at the 19th hole

Indulge pop with a thirst-quenching beverage and a fantastic meal at The Clubhouse Restaurant. It’s one of the best ways to conclude a golf game at Harbor Club. But even if you didn’t get to play a round, anytime is a good time to treat dad to a memorable lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch — all while enjoying stunning views of our 18th green and croquet lawn.

Give a golf membership

Want to give dad the ultimate Father’s Day gift? Wow him with a Harbor Club golf membership. There are four options available — full, corporate, junior, and weekday. All come with access to our award-winning golf course, driving range, short-game facility, putting green, fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, Junior Olympic-sized pool, dog parks, quarter-mile track, hiking trails, Sanctuary Pond, and more. It also includes a full calendar of golf and social events as well as discounts at our restaurants, Boathouse Marina, and Pro Shop. It’s truly the gift that keeps on giving all year long. 

We’re happy to lend a hand if you need help or have questions about any of these golf-themed gift ideas. Contact us today so we can help make this coming Father’s Day one of the best ever for your family.

It’s hard to believe that the last Masters tournament was just a few short months ago in November. (Thanks, COVID-19.) But here we are, well into 2021, and thankfully, The Masters is scheduled for April — its usual spring playdate. But when exactly is The Masters golf tournament being played? Is it allowing spectators? Are 2020 Masters tickets good for 2021 entry? And where’s a great place to play golf during Masters Week? We’ve answered these frequently asked questions and more for you.

When is The Masters?

The 2021 Masters Tournament will begin on Monday, April 5, and end on Sunday, April 11.

Will the 2021 Masters allow spectators?

After hosting the 2020 event without spectators this past November (six months after the usual spring date,) Augusta National Golf Club announced it would allow a limited number of spectators in attendance for the 2021 event.

Are my 2020 Masters tickets good for the 2021 Masters tournament?

Yes. Augusta National announced that 2020 ticket holders are guaranteed the same tickets for the 2021 Masters.

Are cell phones allowed at The Masters?

Cell phones and other electronic devices are strictly prohibited on the grounds of Augusta National at all times. Cameras are not permitted on tournament days, but they are allowed on practice rounds days.

What should I wear to The Masters?

Dress like you’re getting ready to play golf yourself. Do not wear jeans. Gentlemen can’t go wrong with khakis and a polo shirt. Ladies should avoid heels or short shorts. An appropriate-length dress or skirt is a better choice. A hat or sun visor is advisable for skin protection (along with sunscreen.) Attendees should wear comfortable shoes for walking throughout Augusta National. Also, note that any purses, bags, or backpacks you want to bring in can’t be larger than 10 x 10 x 12 inches, and all bags are subject to search.

Can I bring food or drinks into The Masters?

Yes, but why would you want to? Concessions, such as the famous pimento cheese sandwich, are available for sale. Nonetheless, fans who bring their lunch can check them at check stands next to the parking lots at the entrance gates. Keep in mind that no coolers or beverage containers of any type are allowed on the course. 

Where can I play golf during Masters Week?

Harbor Club on Lake Oconee is the perfect place to play golf. It’s renowned as one of the best places to play during Masters Week. Many have made playing Harbor Club an annual tradition during the tournament. It’s no surprise considering the impressive accolades our Weiskopf/Morrish-designed course has accumulated — including the #4 spot on Golfweek’s 2020 Best Courses You Can Play, State by State list. 

For those who wish to experience our award-winning course during Masters Week, we are offering the following special rates from April 5-11, 2021:

$189 + tax – 7:30am-2:58pm

$169 + tax – 3:00pm-Close

$80 replay special

$149 + tax – Hotels & Trade Times (Golfnow & Play 18)

$169 + tax – Groups of 8

$149 + tax – Groups of 12 or more

$70 + tax – Rental set of clubs

Pricing for Harbor Club member’s guests:

$80 + tax – Accompanied guest

$139 + tax – Unaccompanied guest

The Harbor Club course is conveniently located halfway between Augusta and Atlanta, just a few miles off Interstate 20. If you’re ready to enjoy a memorable golf experience on Lake Oconee, we encourage you to book your tee time today. Book online, or call us at (706) 453-4414. Tee times will be in high demand during Masters Week, so please don’t wait until the last minute to make a reservation. Take advantage of our Masters Week Golf Specials today. You’ll be glad you did.

Those who are familiar with our Southern Living-Inspired Community know that we are renowned for our wide array of resort-style amenities and activities. One of the most prominent is our award-winning, Weiskopf/Morrish-designed golf course. Our course is open to anyone who wants to play — especially women. Here at Harbor Club, the word “golf” is not synonymous with “gentlemen only, ladies forbidden.” We’re supportive and enthusiastic about all ladies who enjoy the game.

The future looks bright too, as both women and girls are increasingly taking part in golfing activities. Consider some of these fascinating facts about women in golf, then and now:

A historic beginning…

The first woman to play golf was Mary Queen of Scots. The infamous golf course at St. Andrews was built during her reign in 1552 and she is the one that coined the term “caddy” by calling her assistants “cadets”.

More women are playing golf now

In 2016, 34 percent of the 2.5 million new golfers were female. According to the National Golf Foundation’s 2018 Golf Industry Report, women make up 24 percent of all golfers. This represents an increase of more than 13 percent over the prior five years.

Girls are gaining an interest in golf

Of 2.9 million junior golfers in 2016, 33 percent were female (ages 6-17). This represents an increase of 17 percent since 1995. In 2017, girls made up 25 percent of participants in the PGA Junior League.

Golf aids women in the business world

According to a 2016 study with Sports and Leisure Research Group (SLRG) entitled “A New Context for Business Golf,” female executives agree that golf builds confidence and is an integral part of business. Almost 80 percent of women believe that playing golf in a business environment is a great networking tool for relationships with colleagues, clients, and potential clients. More than half of the businesswomen who play golf say that it has made them more comfortable being assertive, disciplined, and taking calculated risks. What’s more, nearly 60 percent of women golfers felt that playing golf has boosted their professional success and that it made them feel more included in work-related endeavors.

Women in the LPGA

There are now approximately 40 LPGA tournaments played each year, including four major tournaments. They are the Nabisco Championship, the U.S. Women’s Open, the LPGA Championship, and the Women’s British Open.

There are more women golfers — both “off-course” and online

Women account for 41 percent of “off-course golfers.” This stat suggests that places like Topgolf are increasing the sport’s exposure to females and, in turn, helps boost the health of the game. Instagram influencers are also proving that there is an interest in women who golf from both the brand and fan perspective, even if the focus is not on the LPGA players themselves. Tania Tare is a good example. She’s a golf trick shot artist with over 215,000 followers on Instagram alone.

Women continue to make progress in golf

In 2012, the home of The Masters, Augusta National Golf Club, invited former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and South Carolina financier Darla Moore to become the first women to wear green jackets when the club opened for a new season in October. (The 80-year old club had been under fire during the last several years due to its all-male membership.)

We love that our neighbor, Augusta National, allowed women to play golf at their prestigious course. At Harbor Club, we champion and celebrate girls and women of all ages to participate in the sport. Our highly-active Ladies Golf Association holds several events, play days, and tournaments that help empower both new and experienced female golfers alike. We understand that golf creates meaningful connections as well as teaches skills that last a lifetime for all who play. Try it for yourself and see. Get your group together and book a tee time today.

As you know by now, the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Rams went head-to-head in Super Bowl LIII — and the event played out just down the road from us in Atlanta, Georgia. The result of this much-anticipated game was the Patriots overtaking the Rams with a score of 13-3. What’s most impressive is that this was the Patriots second Super Bowl win in three years and their sixth championship since the 2001 season. Patriots fan or not, you have to admire their success. Reflecting on the game, and how both teams performed, we wanted to share five key takeaways for our friends who play golf. 

Winning demands experience

…and experience takes time. The Rams are young, talented and on the brink of greatness. The Patriots, however, are much more experienced, established, and they know how to win. It’s easy to understand that the Patriots were in the best position to capitalize on any of the Ram’s mishaps. However, it won’t be a big surprise to see the Rams play in a future Super Bowl.

Key takeaway for golfers: Keep practicing and playing. The experience you gain over time will help you in the future.

Persistence pays off

The Rams defense was incredible for the majority of the game. They were playing the champions and they held them to just 13 points. While yes, the Rams lost the game, that low score is quite impressive.

Key takeaway for golfers: If you’re struggling with your game, don’t give up. Persistence is a key to success, perhaps not always, but it will be in the long run.

Always keep your composure

Quarterbacks Jared Goff and Tom Brady both did a fantastic job of keeping their composure on the field, despite being under tremendous amounts of stress and pressure. Even when things didn’t go as planned for either one of them, they showed zero emotion and stayed focused on what needed to be done.

Key takeaway for golfers: No matter what, carry a calm, even-tempered demeanor on the golf course. It will enhance your inner pro, and you’ll be admired for your ability of mind over matter.

Age is just a number

Speaking of the quarterbacks, there is a 17-year age difference between Brady (41) and Goff (23). Age, obviously, didn’t matter in this game. Brady is a fantastic player who knows and understands that he doesn’t have to play the greatest game to be a success. What he does know is that he can be great when it’s needed the most, and, on Sunday, that’s precisely what he was.

Key takeaway for golfers: Don’t let your age be an excuse. Use it as an asset and play to the best of your ability when it counts the most.

Confidence is key

Both the Rams and the Patriots were there to win. You don’t play in the Super Bowl wondering if you’re going to win. You play in the Super Bowl with the mindset that you will win. No matter what, confidence is a crucial factor in winning the game.

Key takeaway for golfers: Believe in yourself and your abilities. It puts you in the right state of mind for every shot you take.

Why not put some of these takeaways to the test at Harbor Club? Every golf game you play here will help you gain valuable experience, practice your composure, increase your confidence, and more. Plus you’ll have a lot of fun in the process. Book your tee time today.

 

There are three kinds of golf courses in this world — public, private, and semi-private. Choosing the right one for you depends on the particular type of experience you want to have. Since Harbor Club’s award-winning, Weiskopf/Morrish-design course is semi-private, it exemplifies a hybrid of all the good things that come with both public and private courses.

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Consider these benefits, including the advantages a golf membership can provide:

Easy access

At Harbor Club, members gain access to high-end amenities like tennis and pickleball courts, a junior Olympic-size swimming pool, The Grove campus, a full schedule of fun social events, and more. Harbor Club’s golf course is semi-private, so there are no restrictions — anyone can book a tee time and play. Our course is open to the public, but we also offers memberships for those who want access to things like priority tee times, waived green fees, and other enviable perks.

A better pace of play

With open access at the cheapest price point, public courses can quickly get overrun and overbooked. These municipal courses are also where beginning golfers often get their start. Add these factors together, and you’ll often find a very busy, backed-up course. Alternatively, a semi-private course will be much less crowded, resulting in a better pace of play — and more enjoyable experience for all.

Affordable value

A semi-private course often requires non-members to pay more expensive green fees than what a public course charges. However, you also get a lot more value for your money. Unlike most public courses, a semi-private course (like ours) has fairways, greens, and tees that are maintained to the same standards as higher-end, private courses. You’ll also find better facilities for dining, practicing, and more. This makes it attractive for golfers who crave a private golf club experience but want it at a more reasonable price point. Harbor Club members gain even more value the more they use their exclusive club benefits.

And what are those benefits? Whether you are a resident of Harbor Club or not, there are many. All levels of Harbor Club membership include access to The Grove fitness and recreation facility, pickleball courts, tennis courts, junior Olympic-size swimming pool, Victory Garden, a full calendar of fun social events, discounts on fuel purchases at The Boathouse Marina, and more.

For those that live nearby or pass by our community entrance often (on a daily commute, for example) a golf membership is certainly worth considering. We offer Full, Weekday, Junior, and Corporate memberships, all of which provide unlimited golf options — making it easy for you to get in at least a few hours of play on our fun, challenging course. It certainly makes for a relaxing stop on the way home from work. Even if you don’t have a lot of time, you can play a short game, hit balls on the driving range, or practice your swing on the putting green. Alternatively, you could get in a great workout at the fitness center, or take a refreshing dip in the pool instead. No matter what amenity you indulge in, you’ll find the experience (and the exercise) worthwhile. Finish off with a delicious meal at The Clubhouse (or get it to go), and you’ll wonder how you and your family ever lived without all these gratifying conveniences.

Many have wisely invested in Harbor Club membership. Are you next? Contact us at membership@harborclub.com or 706-454-7047.

It’s not unusual to find our award-winning golf course somewhat quiet during the winter months, but that doesn’t mean that we haven’t been busy making it the absolute best it can be. In addition to daily maintenance, we have several other more significant projects in the works — all to update and make your golf experience at Harbor Club better than ever. Here’s the scoop:

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Enhance air flow

We removed almost 60 trees on holes 1, 3, 9, 11, 14, and 15. Some of these trees were already dead or had compromised health. We all know how important air flow is in golf, so you’ll be happy to find it much improved. You’ll notice that the apparent changes at holes 1, 3, 9, and 11.

Improve grass quality

You’ll find new sod installed at holes 9 and 11 where some of the tree removal had left a void. With so many trees removed, the grass quality will be much better throughout the course. There will be fewer tree roots for it to contend with, and the formerly shady areas will have more sunlight, making it healthier and stronger.

Create uniformity

A consistent, well-maintained landscape makes for a calming yet beautiful environment to play. Ornamental grasses are an excellent way to augment and enhance a golf course to express uniformity. So, you’ll now find these attractive grass features added or changed at holes 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 16, the driving range, and the putting green.

Add color

In addition to adding the ornamental grasses, we’re adding some pops of color to the course too. You’ll find pretty annual flower plantings near the putting green and behind the 9 green. We plan to change these out periodically to keep the flowers fresh and aesthetically pleasing.

Improve drainage

To ensure proper drainage, we’ve recently completed inspecting all putting green drain lines and outfalls. Leveling out the access points that surround the greens is a priority, as is improving the drainage with the fairway bunker on hole 5. Also, we plan to have a contractor make upgrades to the galvanized pipe and catch basin between holes 1 and 9.

Enhance the hardscape

The bridges on holes 7 and 18 have been resurfaced by our in-house builder to ensure appealing yet safe passage. Patriot Builders utilized high-quality “double treated” boards which will be painted soon when the air is drier. We have the bridges on holes 4 and 17 next in the queue for improvements. Also, we plan to upgrade the driving range bag stands this spring. They will not only be more aesthetically pleasing, but they are designed to effectively help with your performance as you work on your game.

There’s undoubtedly a lot of work going on, but we know that all of these endeavors and constant improvements are for you. We want to ensure that all who play golf at Harbor Club have a fantastic experience. So come check out all the great things we’ve done. Warmer weather is coming — book your tee time today.

Aren’t you excited? The holidays are upon us! It’s such a joyful time of year for family and friends to get together to enjoy the season. But with that excitement also comes a lot of planning — planning around menus, activities, and how best to burn off all those extra (delicious) goodies that we are preparing to consume.

It’s a time when we count our many blessings, but certainly not our calories as we feast on delicious meats, stuffing, butter-laden sides, and lots of pumpkin pie. So how does one keep their out-of-town friends and family happily occupied while also burning off second helpings of dessert? With a fantastic game of golf, no doubt! It’s hard to say “no” to playing a round or two on our award-winning golf course located on beautiful Lake Oconee. Here’s why:

The weather is great

The last few Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays have been quite mild here at Harbor Club. From what we’re hearing, we’ll be enjoying yet another balmy winter. Take advantage of our beautiful Georgia weather. Most of the time, all you’ll need to stay warm on the golf course is a few light layers. So don’t keep family cooped up in the house the whole time. Get outside and enjoy the fresh air, the bright sunshine, and the stunning views of Lake Oconee with your family and friends. Playing golf is a perfect way to absorb much-needed Vitamin D.

It’s a fun way to exercise

Playing golf is a great way to get some exercise, without feeling like you’re getting exercise. It gets the blood pumping in all sorts of ways. You’re walking, bending, reaching, stretching, and constantly swinging a club. And we bet you laugh quite a bit too. That’s sure to burn some extra calories, right? So, get off the couch, round up the troops, and book a tee time. Besides, playing a few rounds will put your mind at ease about partaking of seconds (or even thirds) during your holiday parties and feasts. After all, you do have much thankful for.

No one can say they are bored

Teens, in particular, may feel like “there’s nothing to do around here.” Not so! Playing golf is an excellent way to gather everyone together for a fun day outside. It’s a unique way to make special memories during the holidays — especially if Uncle Ned gets a hole-in-one. Not only can you get in some good family time on our golf course, but there are also other fun activities to take advantage of too. Go for a hike on the trails at The Grove. Go fishing on Lake Oconee or one of our many stocked ponds throughout the community. Take the dogs to the dog park. Play tennis or pickleball. There is much fun to be had at Harbor Club.

Speaking of which, we have one other festive activity for you. Take your family and friends on a special tour of our Southern Living inspired model home! Starting November 21, the model will be decked out in grand style for the holidays. The beautiful decor is sure to put everyone in a merry state of mind. Public tours continue on weekends in November and December. Be sure to check it out.

So, whether we see you out on the golf course, at The Grove, or at our Southern Living model home, we want to wish you and yours a very happy holiday season full of fun, love, and cheer. (PS – Don’t forget to book your golf tee times in advance to get the best time slots during the holidays!)

Fellow golfers, we found this really cool poem we thought you might enjoy. Happy Friday to you! Hope you find some time to get out there and hit some balls this weekend! 

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In My Hand I Hold A Ball,
White And Dimpled…Rather Small.
Oh, How Bland It Does Appear,
This Harmless Looking Little Sphere.

By Its Size I Could Not Guess
The Awesome Strength It Does Possess.

But Since I Fell Beneath Its Spell,

I’ve Wandered Through The Fires Of Hell.

My Life Has Not Been Quite The Same
Since I Chose To Play This Stupid Game.

It Rules My Mind For Hours On End;

A Fortune It Has Made Me Spend.

It Has Made Me Curse And Made Me Cry,

And Hate Myself And Want To Die.
It Promises Me A Thing Called Par,

If I Hit It Straight And Far.

To Master Such A Tiny Ball,

Should Not Be Very Hard At All.

But My Desires The Ball Refuses,

And Does Exactly As It Chooses.

It Hooks And Slices, Dribbles And Dies,

And Disappears Before My Eyes.
Often It Will Have A Whim,

To Hit A Tree Or Take A Swim.

With Miles Of Grass On Which To Land,

It Finds A Tiny Patch Of Sand.
Then Has Me Offering Up My Soul,

If Only It Would Find The Hole.

It’s Made Me Whimper Like A Pup,
And Swear That I Will Give It Up.

And Take To Drink To Ease My Sorrow,

But The Ball Knows … I’ll Be BackTomorrow.

Stand proud, noble swingers of clubs and losers of balls!

Recent studies found average golfers walk 900 miles a year.

Another study found golfers drink 22 gallons of alcohol a year.

This means, on average, golfers get 41 miles to the gallon!

Kind of makes you proud. Almost makes you feel like a hybrid…

~ Author: Allan Berman

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Come play a round or to at Harbor Club this weekend! Go here to book a tee time! 

With The Masters coming up at the highly prestigious Augusta National golf course, you may be pondering the idea of a golf membership of your very own. Obtaining one at Augusta National, however, is a challenging feat. There’s a waiting list of at least 300 people! Instead, we encourage you to check out nearby Harbor Club Golf Course (especially during Masters Week.) 

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It is a beautiful, challenging, yet fun course to play, but with easier access at a lower price point. And if you are a resident of the Lake Oconee area, a Harbor Club golf membership can make a lot of sense. You already know that playing golf often will improve your game, plus there are other surprising health benefits to be enjoyed as well. Here are six additional compelling reasons to consider a Harbor Club golf membership:

1. Garner enjoyable networking opportunities
   Need to foster some new client relationships? Or seek out new leads from a potential customer? Or perhaps entertain some of your best reps? An exclusive golf membership can help you do all of that and more. Playing a round or two at Harbor Club provides an excellent way to network, develop, and personalize important business relationships. What’s more, Harbor Club’s beautiful golf course and magnificent Club House are very inviting environments to relax, get to know one another and truly enjoy each other’s company.
2. Save money
   For those that are passionate about playing a lot of golf, or plan to play more golf in the near future, a membership can save a tidy sum on greens fees alone. Compare and contrast what the costs would be for each …and don’t forget to take into consideration the expenses for the other amenities that you gain access to (mentioned below.) When you add it all up, a membership can offer an incredible value.
3. Access additional (awesome!) amenities
   It’s not just the award-winning Weiskopf/Morrish designed 18-hole golf course that you would have access to. You also get to enjoy the golf practice facilities, tennis and pickleball courts, the <href=”#boathouse”>Boathouse Marina (including access to boat storage), all fitness and recreation facilities (including The Grove), swimming pool, men’s and ladies locker rooms and our fantastic dining and banquet facilities.
4. Play fun tournaments
   A Harbor Club golf membership can provide direct access to friendly tournaments and other exciting golf activities throughout the year. Members can join the fun with Oktoberfest, Summer Sizzler, and Power of Two (where both the LGA (Ladies Golf Association) and MGA (Men’s Golf Association play) tournaments, just to name a few. And don’t forget about getting first dibs on other Harbor Club tournaments, like our famous Superintendent’s Revenge, Turkey Shoot, and Santa Claus Open.
5. Gain warm friendships
   The more you play at one course (ours, in particular) the more likely you’ll cultivate new friendships with people who love to play golf just as much as you do. Plus, you’ll gain access to a full calendar of fun and entertaining events throughout the year, giving you more opportunities to socialize with a wonderful community of fantastic people.
6. Gain a sense of belonging
   As you get to know other Harbor Club members, as well as our friendly staff, you’ll become more ingrained in our community. Pretty soon, everyone will know your name! And perhaps the wait staff will remember your favorite beverage or entree. Soon, you’ll be a regular and feel like part of the Harbor Club family …and that’s a great feeling to have.

Want to experience that feeling for yourself? Our membership offerings are available to all Lake Oconee area residents. Call us at 706-454-7047 to learn more.