Heritage Oaks Golf Club - Legacy 9

Course developing nicely for just RE-opening a few weeks back.

I never write reviews but trying to help fellow golfers. Back nine is in terrible shape. Water issues, huge patches without grass, greens not cared for, rough areas eat golf balls it’s so thick and uncared for, and guy at counter in clubhouse had no idea how to do his job.

They full 18 are in better shape.

I had not been to the Sportman’s facility before and as a North Shore resident it was great to discover this place which features a full length 18, 9 hole, par 3 course, decent range, and mini golf for the kids. We played the East 9 on a time crunch and though straightforward and simple, the East 9 was really fun to play. Tight to the marshland in spots, we definitely lost a few balls due to lack of course knowledge, but the gps in the carts was generally useful (missing several bunkers), and if we kept it straight, we were out of trouble. Staff was friendly, attentive, and fun. Will definitely be back!

Course was soggy due to all the rain recently. The rough hadn’t been cut in a while and was deeper than usual. Pace of play was extremely slow.

Played the course after a lot of rain the previous week. The course was soggy in some areas and the rough hadn’t been cut in a while. This course is much more enjoyable when it is drier.

When we arrived, the person checking you in at the clubhouse said that it was only a walking day since the course had experienced a good amount of rain the past week.

The only issue is we paid for a cart with GolfNow and the course couldn't give us a refund. I have NO clue how to get credit for this from GolfNow but totally deserve it.

The Good: Nice, little Edward Dearie Jr. design (a disciple of Donald Ross) in Northbrook, IL. One of the better 9-hole courses on the North Shore and a good peaceful stroll compared to the more challenging "Classic" 18-hole course. Good course conditions considering how rainy it was the Spring of 2019. Greens putted true but tended to be a little on the slow side. Good Par 3's! Very nice practice facilities with multiple short game areas perfect for junior practice.

The Bad: The Par 4's aren't overly interesting and seem to be all be straightaway / the same length. Sand traps are a little to be desired . The clubhouse and dining options are fairly rudimentary for a pretty pricey park district course.

The Verdict: While I typically feel that Sportsman's is on the expensive side for what you get, I was pleasantly surprised with the East course. It is playable, yet challenging enough to keep you thinking. Fun little course!

Best Hole: The short Par 3 8th is a tester despite it being a wedge. Two-tiered green can be demanding and back right pin location is just asking for trouble!