Rick Smith’s Course: The Tradition A Modern Masterpiece at Treetops
When you mention Treetops Resort to any serious golfer, eyes light up and stories start flowing. But there's one course at this northern Michigan golf mecca that truly embodies the spirit of modern golf architecture – Rick Smith's Tradition course. Buckle up, golf enthusiasts, because we're about to take a deep dive into a layout that's redefining what resort golf can be.
The Mastermind Behind the Magic
Rick Smith. His name carries significant weight in golf circles. Known for his work with some of the game's greatest players, Smith brought his wealth of knowledge and passion for the game to Treetops.
Play the Smith Tradition course today
A Links-Inspired Gem
When Rick Smith set out to design the Tradition course, he had a vision that was distinctly different from the other four courses at Treetops. Drawing inspiration from the birthplace of golf, Smith embarked on a journey to Ireland and Scotland, immersing himself in the essence of links-style golf.
The result? A course that transports you across the Atlantic without ever leaving Michigan. The Tradition stands as a testament to Smith's ability to blend the rugged charm of links golf with the lush landscape of northern Michigan.
Old World Inspiration, New World Execution
As you step onto the first tee, the links inspiration is immediately apparent. The wide-open feel, the undulating fairways, and the strategic bunkering all harken back to the coastal courses of the British Isles. But Smith didn't simply copy – he adapted.
The Tradition showcases how links-style elements can be masterfully integrated into an inland setting. The course features firm and fast playing conditions when possible, encouraging the ground game so essential to traditional links play. Natural hazards and native grasses frame the holes, adding both beauty and challenge to your round.
A Nod to His Roots
It's worth noting that the Tradition wasn't Smith's first foray into course design at Treetops. His award-winning Signature course, which preceded the Tradition, also benefited from his studies abroad. However, with the Tradition, Smith fully embraced the links aesthetic, creating a course that stands out not just at Treetops, but in all of Michigan.
Strategic Brilliance
As you make your way through the course, the strategic elements become clear. Take the par-4 7th, a drivable hole that tempts you to go for glory. The risk-reward calculation here is enough to make a statistician sweat. Do you lay up for a safer approach, or do you gun for the green, knowing that trouble lurks on all sides? It's holes like these that keep you coming back, determined to crack the code.
A Course for All
One of the most impressive aspects of The Tradition is its accessibility. Playing at just over 6,350 yards from the tips, it's not going to overwhelm you with length. But don't mistake shorter for easier – Smith's clever design ensures that golfers of all skill levels will find plenty of challenges.
The greens are a particular highlight. Subtly contoured and always true, they're fast enough to keep you honest without crossing into the realm of unfair. Missing on the wrong side here can turn a routine two-putt into a white-knuckle adventure.
The Signature Stretch
While every hole on The Tradition is a treat, the closing stretch is where Smith's design truly shines. The par-3 16th, with its elevated tee and green surrounded by trouble, is a white-knuckle thrill ride. Follow that up with the risk-reward par-5 17th and the demanding par-4 18th, and you've got a closing sequence that will leave you buzzing long after the final putt drops.
More Than Just Golf
Smith's vision extended beyond just the 18 holes. The Tradition's practice facilities are second to none, offering the perfect space to groove your swing before tackling the course. And let's not forget the views – on a clear day, you can see for miles across the rolling Michigan landscape. It's enough to make you forget about your score... almost.
A Modern Classic
Since its opening, The Tradition has earned its place among Michigan's finest public courses. It's a testament to Smith's design philosophy – challenging yet fair, classic yet modern, and above all, fun.
What sets The Tradition apart is its playability. This isn't a course that will beat you up and send you home with your tail between your legs. Instead, it's a course that invites you to think, to strategize, and to improve. Every round teaches you something new, whether it's about the course or about your own game.
The Lasting Impact
Rick Smith's Tradition course didn’t just added another feather to Treetops' already impressive cap – it redefined what resort golf can be, proving a course doesn't need to be 7,500 yards long or have a slope rating of 155 to provide a stern test of golf. Sometimes, the greatest challenges come in more subtle packages.
So, the next time you're planning a golf trip to Treetops, make sure The Tradition is on your must-play list. Come walk in the footsteps of the game's greats, test your skills against Rick Smith's design, and experience a true gem. Who knows? You might just discover a new tradition of your own.
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