MICHAEL GRANGE
Sports Reporter
Saturday, June 12, 1999

Golf course architecture can either fascinate or bore, according to a wide range of factors, but for those interested, the course at the Hockley Valley Resort on the outskirts of Orangeville, Ont., is a must-see and a must-play.

Taking in the course architecture isn't the only reason to go -- playing the almost flawlessly maintained 6,403-yard track through the Hockley Hills just less than an hour's drive from downtown Toronto is an excellent reason in itself.

It requires first-rate shot making and may be the prettiest setting for a golf course in greater Toronto.

But for design enthusiasts, Hockley Valley also marks the first solo project by Tom McBroom, the Toronto-based architect who has gone on to become Canada's best-known course builder.

Since Hockley Valley opened in 1990, McBroom has put his name beside the likes of National Pines in Barrie, Crowbush Cove in Prince Edward Island and Bell Bay in Cape Breton -- award winners all. Those in the know say his most recent work, ClubLink's 45-hole Rattlesnake Point facility in Milton, may be his best yet.

But it all started at Hockley Valley, and one can imagine the thrill and fear that the young designer may have felt when he won this job.

Thrill: the chance to carve his own course out of some of the most scenic terrain in Southern Ontario.

Fear: When he broke out the topographic maps and tried to figure out exactly how he was going to get 18 holes of golf into a piece of land with more elevation changes than your average ski hill.

Adding to the problem was the fact Hockley Valley was already a ski hill, not to mention a resort and corporate conference centre. The course would have to work its way around the existing buildings and facilities.

All this is to say if you come to Hockley Valley expecting an ordinary golf experience, you've come to the wrong place.

The first clue may be on the scorecard. Any course that measures a relatively modest 6,403 yards from the back tees, has water in play on only one hole (the 18th) and sand hazards on none but still carries a slope rating of 130 must have a few tricks up its sleeve.

As well, with six par-three holes, the course plays to a par 70, not the typical 72. Then there's the fact that course doesn't return to the clubhouse after nine holes. So if you're crying for your mother halfway around, you've got no choice but to play your way back in. Bring some extra balls.

For those looking for clues to the course's character, the first hole, a 429-yard dogleg par four, offers little. It's flat and generally plays the way you see it. That makes it the exception to the rule here.

A better example of what you'll be facing is the second hole, where the course begins its 300-foot ascent to the top of the valley. Carts are mandatory here, but that's a good thing. Only a billy goat would relish walking this course.

The 379-yard par four requires a blind tee shot to a fairway that lies on top of a 40-foot shelf that begins about 40 yards in front of the tee box.

Unless you strike your drive well -- more than 225 yards or so -- you might not be able to see the elevated green on your second shot either. Take it from me: play both shots to the left.

Blind shots are part of golf -- they offer a reward for those who have knowledge of the course and a test of nerve for those who don't. A sprinkling of them is fun. But Hockley Valley has lots of them, perhaps too many for some tastes.

There are plenty of compensations. Among them are the six par-threes. Stand on the tee box of these babies and you can see everything.

While hampered by the landscape in some respects, McBroom makes it work for him here as they all offer panoramic views of the valley and surrounding hills. The greens sitting beneath seem a long, long way down and each offer the opportunity to watch your ball cascade through the air for an unusually long amount of time, which is always fun.

One gets the sense that McBroom had plenty of fun putting this layout together, although not without encountering some headaches along the way.

Where: Hockley Valley Resort, Orangeville, Ont. From Toronto, take Highway 400 north to Highway 9. It's located on 3rd Line Mono, three kilometres north of Highway 9.

Head professional: James Sheppard

Statistics: 6,403 yards, par 70. Rated 71, with a slope of 130.

Facilities: Warm-up range only, putting green. Golfers have full access to resort facilities, including swimming pool, sauna and fitness room. Resort packages available.

Fees: $82 Monday to Friday, $95 on weekends; $59 after 3 p.m.; $49 after 5 p.m. Fall discounts begin on Sept. 27. All prices include power cart and taxes.

The word: A well-maintained course in a scenic setting that makes for some tough, fun golf. With lots of blind shots and elevation changes, bring some extra balls and consider your first visit an investment in your next.

Contact: 416-363-5490 or 519-942-0754, bookings can be taken a week in advance for daily players; unlimited booking time for hotel and corporate guests.