Davis Love III has accomplished many things in his time in the golf industry. Most golf enthusiasts know him as a tournament champion, but recently Love has been getting noticed for his award-winning designs as well, and his talents are certainly on display at the Love Course at Barefoot Resort, a par-72 that encompasses more than 7,000 yards. Similar to the Fazio Course, Loves uses a mix of GN-1 on the fairways and Tif-sport Bermuda grass on the approaches. The greens are comprised up of newly acquired Champion UltraDwarf grasses.
Love’s unique flair for tradition can be found first on No. 4, an intriguing par-4 measuring just 280 yards from the black tees. Despite playing uphill and being guarded by bunkers and water, this hole is drivable for many players. But be careful of balls that are hit too long, as there are Scottish castle ruins just beyond the green.
If you like a good dare, you will love the 13th. This short par-5 provides players all the risk/reward they can handle. A solid drive will leave you with eagle opportunities, but be cautious of the right side. A meandering stream guards that side of the green complex.
Love has always been known as a solid finisher on the course, and he continues that trend with his finishing hole at Barefoot Resort. At 596 yards from the platinum tee, this is no two-shot hole, but does provide plenty of drama. Your tee shot must be placed on the right-side of the fairway to avoid a waste area on the left. The lay-up shot must avoid water to the left and find a quickly narrowing fairway neck. Your final wedge of the day will be memorable, as narrow greens will yield few birdies, but it can happen.