SCORE: 7.9
Long Meadow Video Review Here
Value: 7.3
Condition: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.4
By Tom Connolly -
Overview:
Ah, Mount Pleasant's little brother, Long Meadow. I know I'll take some heat for saying that, but it's simply out of fun. Long Meadow resides in the Belvidere section of Lowell, right on the Tewksbury line and a stone's throw from Trull Brook Golf Course. A private, 9 hole club that hosts one of the best finishing 9/18th hole's around, this this rocks.
Condition:
The rough & fairways are almost always plush and greens roll true here. I know a few seasons back they had a lot of trouble with the greens, but nature will be nature. The par 36/72 doesn't offer much of a different look on the 2nd loop, but is a solid 9 holer that is scorable if you know your way around the place.
The final stretch of two par 5's and a short par 4 is one of my favorite finishes to a course in all of New England. The par 5, 511 yard 8th hole requires a long drive down the left side, and a meticulous 3 wood carried over a pond to have a chance at Eagle. I've seen many hopes of winning the City Tournament go to die in that pond.
A fun fact - my first ever hole in 1 was on the 2nd hole here. 135 yard pitching wedge zipped back into the jar at 15 years old. You better believe I was given a hard time for not being able to buy a round at the bar.
Value:
Being a private club, it's hard to nail down the exact initiation and yearly dues. My understanding is it will run you 2-4K a year in dues, and probably similar in initiation. If you're looking for a place to play an afternoon 9, member guests, or maybe even make the Lowell City Tournament, it's a great spot to be a member and worth the dough.
Atmosphere:
The moment you've all been waiting for. The heckle deck and amphitheater overlooking the 9th hole creates an atmosphere that is tough to beat. A membership that might love to have fun more than they love golf, you won't leave Long Meadow having a bad time. Head Pro, Shawn Scott runs a fantastic crew and will ensure your experience is top notch. Take a stroll over to Belvidere for the City Tournament to experience it for yourself, you won't regret it.