The golf course is simply beautiful, with manicured fairways lined with golden native high grasses and fescue mounding. Wind can certainly be a factor here, as the layout is primarily open with few trees shielding the playing surfaces. The terrain is mildly rolling, with partial cart paths providing easy access for golfers using carts. There is a nice mix of open green complexes that encourage bump and run chips, with those that are heavily protected by bunkers, mounding and swales. Hawkshead is part of the Michigan Arthur Hills Golf Trail - never met an Arthur Hills course that wasn't appealing. These designs are built to satisfy the experienced golfers, while also providing an enjoyable round for mid and high handicappers.

Every year, I look for a spot to take a group of guys for a long weekend getaway that focuses first and foremost on golf. For the past 8 years we have stayed in the Midwest and 2011 was no exception.

Tapawingo National Golf Club (www.tapawingogolf.com) is one of the area golf courses designed by one of the biggest names in the world of golf, Gary Player. Just that alone can be a recipe for success, but in today's competitive golf landscape, there has to be more than just a name to keep golfers and events coming back.

Lake Valley Golf and Country Club (www.lakevalleygolf.com) provides the most unique scorecard of all the courses at the Lake. Their 6 – 6 – 6 layout, meaning 6 par 5's, 6 par-4's and 6 par-3's provides ample scoring chances, that is if you can find an uphill putt. Factor in the overall course length of just 6,373 from the back tees and you might think you are about to play a pushover round.

Of all the golf courses you hear about at the Lake of the Ozarks, The Golf Club at Deer Chase is a well kept secret.