Marriott Golf – the division of Marriott that runs its many golf courses – has selected the Grande Pines Golf Club in Orlando as its "Property of the Year." One of the main reasons the club received this award was because of its high marks in the all-important "customer satisfaction" category.

I have played this course and it is very challenging at over 7,000 yards from the back tees with a 74.3/140 rating/slope. It is more fun from the middle tees – about 6,000 yards and 69.6/133. Noted golf architect Steve Smyers redesigned this layout in 2004 from the former International Golf Club Joe Lee design. It was noted for the nearly 80 bunkers scattered throughout the course. One of the things that has recently been done is the removal of 18 bunkers to make the course more playable and golfer friendly. This not only aids your score, but keeps things moving along as well.

A beautiful layout, Grande Pines GC has also been chosen as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, due to its many forms of birds and other wildlife all over the course.

The course is open to play by owners at the Marriott Vacation Resort, guests and the general public, so next time you are in the Orlando area, give them a call at (800) 371-1165 to set up your tee time. It is located just off International Drive, a short distance south of SeaWorld. You can see their website at: www.grandepinesgolfclub.com.