The Ontario Bridge to Michigan Now Shines Brighter

 

Niagara Falls now has a serious contender in Windsor for anyone who wants to golf and gamble. Our brief layover began at the Caesar’s Windsor.  After leaving our car with the free valet parking, we checked in to an awesome room with 2 queen size beds, wall-to-wall full height windows, and an incredible view overlooking both the Detroit River and the Detroit cosmopolitan skyline.

The next morning brought a short 8 minute drive to the course. The Ambassador Club opened in 2005 and was immediately nominated the “Best New Golf Course in Canada” by Golf Digest and OG Magazine. In 2008 OG Magazine named it the #1 “Best Bang For The Buck” in Ontario, and I can see why!  You can play here for $45CAD during the week and $55 on weekends plus $10 for a power cart including taxes.

 Tom McBroom is one of Canada’s top Golf Course Architects, and once again has proven that he is able to design a great layout on any piece of property – in this case a very flat chunk of land across from Windsor Raceway. Since the only elevation changes here are man-made, McBroom has done an imaginative job of carving and mounding interesting and challenging holes that are surrounded by nasty fescue.   What this course lacks in trees, it more then makes up for in strategically placed bunkers (…and did I mention the fescue?). 

From the tips, The Ambassador Club measures out a 7,033 yards with a course rating of 74.3 but a slope rating of only 129 (hard to believe). Trust me, this course definitely toughens up when the wind blows – as it usually does.

 I think my favorite hole might be #15. A very short risk/reward par 4, that is reachable from the upper tees blocks, yet you still have to carry your drive over water to reach a very tough green.  Be forewarned, a well-conceived layout can come back to haunt you if you do not strike it well as sand does come into play since McBroom has lined the fairway with bunkers and no matter what club you select.

This has to be one of the best conditioned courses I have ever played. A few of the holes seemed similar to those already played, but given what McBroom had to start with, that makes this course even more incredible.

Whether you coming for the weekend, or passing through on your way to Michigan, make sure you stop and play The Ambassador Golf Club.  You will not be disappointed! To book your tee time call the Ambassador Golf Club at 1-519-966-2425 or visit their website at www.ambassadorgolfclub.com