Michigan Golf Journal July 2021

11 July 2021 www.michigangolfjournal.com its proximity to M-14 at the Sheldon Road exit and the numerous commercial and residential properties around, lots of golfers likely live or work close by. What I like about the three nines is that they each have their own personality but are also similar in shot-making requirements due to the type of land and water features. Luke and Mark have a few more open areas, with Matthew having a few tighter fairways. Trees are a main feature throughout, no doubt. My favorite stretch of holes on the Matthew course is 20-22. Hole 20 is a solid par 4 dogleg right. The fairway landing area is open and flat, with a valley to navigate on the second shot to an elevated green that is one of the more undulating putting surfaces. Hole 21 rolls and dips through two valleys that slope hard left to right, before reaching a green even more elevated than the previous par 4. Then the signature hole is the par 3 No. 22. It’s a picturesque downhill shot over a pond to a spacious green with tons of pin options. All three nines come in contact with the halfway house, an area that’s very relaxing and serene and typically displays the great effort by the grounds crew with nice landscaping. Rates are very favorable to all budgets, and the value is worthwhile to the experience. Having Carl’s Golfland and its newly updated TrackMan Range next door is another bonus for golfers needing equipment or other game adjustments. The overall St. Johns property began with nine holes, added another nine in the late 1970s when it became open to the public, and added yet another nine in the 1990s when the property was redeveloped and refurbished into the current Inn at St. Johns Conference Center. The restored property features inspirational Romanesque architecture throughout, including a grand ballroom space for up to 450 guests, an exquisite chapel available for weddings, two ballrooms with 25- foot ceilings, a two-story atrium and 22 meeting rooms. More information: https:// www.theinnatstjohns. com/golf.htm MGJ