With its spectacular views of the Cuyahoga River
Valley and classic layout, Sleepy Hollow Golf Course ranks
as one of the great golf challenges in Cleveland. The punitive
nature of the course can clearly be seen in the deep ravines
which can come into play on its 13 holes. The 64 sand bunkers
and large mature overhanging trees are also a threat. Not
as obvious, but still treacherous, are the small greens.
The course was designed by the flamboyant architect, Stanley
Thompson, and opened in 1925 as a private country club on
land leased from Cleveland Metroparks. The course opened
to public play in 1963. The Scottish links influence can
be seen throughout the course. Both nine holes go out, turn
around and come back. The early holes on both nines play
down hill and down the prevailing wind, therefore seeming
shorter than the yardage indicates. The incoming holes play
uphill and into the wind, and can play surprisingly long.
Some golfers have noted the huge greens on holes #2 and
#12 among the other 16 small greens. Those were at one time
double greens (currently another par 3 hole #6), which was
not an uncommon practice during the period the course was
designed.
It would be hard to find another course where so many holes
are praised for their aesthetic beauty as well as playability.
Hole #2 is an impressive par 3 and with the tees back, it's
a driver tee shot for all but the longest of hitters. It
is followed by par 4 hole #3, which stretches 495 yards
from the farthest tee position. The back nine is shorter
and more strategic. It features #14, a short par 5 and #17,
a short par 4 which are both classic risk/reward holes!
Features: pro shop, professional golf lessons, snack
bar, power and hand cart rental, club rental, practice putting
green, driving range, party rooms, shower service, watered
greens, tees and fairways.
