THE ROCK (A Faldo Design) 705-765-ROCK
Review 9/02/04
NOTE - THIS COURSE CLOSED IN 2007 FOR RENOVATIONS - WILL RE-OPEN IN 2008
The Rock in Minett is a Nick Faldo designed, target style golf course that opened for play in May of 2004. This premium golf experience accentuates the natural beauty of the Muskoka region, and has been crafted around
natural hazards that encourage strategy, enhance playability and reward accuracy. On our late summer visit, we
found the layout to be in surprisingly good condition for a course that had been open for only a few months. The
incredible natural beauty cannot be disputed - as evidenced in the photos that are featured in this review. The
exceptional terrain boasts significant elevation changes from tee to green, with granite rock formations and
outcroppings forming considerable hazards as well as providing the shaping for many holes. On course and throughout the property, including from the clubhouse terrace, the views are spectacular.
Beginning with the opening holes, golfers will understand the nature of "The Rock". On the dogleg right par four
first the uphill approach must carry a granite formation that crosses the fairway about 100 yards out, and the par
three 2nd is framed by boulders on both sides. From the tee on three - which is an extremely challenging par
four, players can use the corner of the rock wall on the left as a target. Long hitters who can carry this hazard will
be left with a reasonable chance to reach in regulation, while those bailing out to the right will probably have to
lay up prior to the pond that fronts the green, and hope for a great up and down. On the pretty par four fifth, a
rock retaining wall defines the front of the green, while a large stone behind forms a perfect backdrop. The second and fourth green complexes are pictured below.
Holes five through seven provide some reasonable scoring opportunities, as does the aesthetically pleasing par
three 8th, which features a carry over a pond and is surrounded by a natural area. The par five ninth is the
longest hole of the layout, playing from 640 yards for golfers playing from the black tees, 588 from the golds and
a formidable 580 yards from the green tee areas. The four sets of tees at The Rock play to 6545 yards, 6122
yards, 5644 yards and 4839 yards. The slope ratings were being re-configurated on our visit - but the original
prognosis is that the tips will warrant a slope approaching 150. While not overly long - this is a particularly challenging layout, and one that demands precision off the tee as well as greenside.
As golfers make the turn to the back side it is difficult not to notice the impeccable landscaping around the
clubhouse, and beside the practice facility. In fact, the grounds around the entire property are meticulously taken
care of. Flowers and shrubbery abound, and the clubhouse itself is very upscale. On property is a pro shop,
locker rooms with showers, an outdoor patio with great views and a restaurant/lounge with menus for breakfast,
lunch and dinner items. The grass range features a section with the new artificial turf - the same used at Ford
Field in Detroit - which provides a feel as close as possible to natural turf. There are abundant target areas, and
a large putting green is also part of the practice facilities. On course golfers will find 150 yard stakes on par
fours and fives that also serve as directional devices, plus 100, 150 and 200 yardage blocks situated in the
fairways. Sprinkler heads are measured to the center of the green, and pin placement sheets (as well as ball
and club washers and weather covers) are standard on all golf carts. The L 93 Bent grass greens and fairways
provide a good feel and true roll - all that is left is for golfers to do is to hit the ball. And oh yes - hit it to the right spot.
The back side in our estimation, is more challenging than the front. The tenth presents a narrow fairway flanked by a thick
boulder formation on the right and trees left - with sand on both sides. Land on the fairway and a good score can be had. The 11th is a rolling three par with more rock formations front left and long right.
Now things really get interesting. Holes 12 through 16 got on the last nerve of my partner, making him wonder
what the heck Mr. Faldo was thinking. Of course, he said this as he was banking shots off of walls and trees,
playing a game more similar to billiards than golf…The 12th requires a lay up to around the 180-170 yard area,
which leaves an extremely downhill (and beautiful) approach to a green flanked by two bunkers left and another
trap short right. Thirteen is a monster. The tee shot must be long and played to the right side to compensate for
a severe sloping fairway that leans to the left. The green rests uphill to the right, past a granite formation that
blocks the view from many locations. If you have time, it is recommended that you drive up to the putting
complex so that you know exactly what you are dealing with. Par this hole and get out of town! Fourteen is a
pretty par three that demands a carry over marsh to a well bunkered green complex. Photos of the 12th and 14th holes are featured below.
Number 15 is a short par four with a long bunker lining the right side and trees bordering the left of a very
undulating fairway. The pond short right should not be in play, but greenside golfers will find significant bunkering
in front. Prior course knowledge could save some strokes on 16, as this hole features numerous levels of
fairway, with landing areas defined by rock walls and outcroppings. Those wondering where the fairway went
should realize that this hole is an example of target golf - hit the spots and par is possible - play wildly with a grip
it and rip it mentality and a big number may result. The 18th handicap follows as a simple par three with plenty of
room. Number 18 demands some precision, but played carefully with a lay up before the marsh area off the tee, can result in a good score to finish.
Be prepared to exhibit your "A" game when venturing to The Rock. The great practice facilities should help, and
the beautiful surroundings should help you to enjoy the round, regardless of whether or not your scores are low.
Accuracy is more important that brute power here - but there are opportunities to let loose as well. For more info visit our page for The Rock with a direct link to their website by clicking here .
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