Some people take golf extremely seriously. Its rich history combined with the term “gentleman’s game” can make golf seem like a sport designed only for the wealthy.
To others, though, golf is a sport that allows anyone and everyone to play. A sunny day combined with a cold beverage and the sound of laughter is what makes golf special.
Located in north Eugene is Oakway Golf Course.
Oakway does have a rich history; it has been around since 1929. But at the heart of the course, it really is a place of enjoyment and laughter.
“I love going to Oakway with my friends because, no matter what, we always have a good time,” local golfer Tyler Wells said. “We usually have a couple of beers with us.”
Neither Wells nor his friends are avid golfers. They would never considering going to one of the larger courses in Eugene.
That’s what makes Oakway perfect for them. From the short layout to the stress-free environment, golfers never feel pressured to play perfectly and can truly enjoy themselves.
Oakway is a par-61 golf course, shorter than the typical par-70-to-par-72 golf courses such as RiverRidge or Springfield Country Club.
Winding through the Cal Young and Spyglass neighborhoods, Oakway provides seven holes that are listed as a par 4, while 11 holes are listed as a par 3. As a shorter version of a standard golf course, it offers many positives to those who aren’t as talented as everyday golfers.
With the short course, participants can expect to play a round of golf in about three hours with very little delay between holes. Also, carts aren’t necessary since the distance between each hole is extremely short, making the walk at Oakway a pleasant one.
“I’ve walked the course a few times and it wasn’t bad at all,” Wells’ friend and fellow golfer Jeff DeLuna said. “Don’t get me wrong, having a cart is awesome because you can store more drinks, but walking the course isn’t a bad way to go either.”
Though it’s a short course, Oakway still presents many challenges to golfers who are more experienced than others.
Particularly, holes 5, 10, 12 and 17 all provide unique difficulties that require golfers to hit certain spots in order to make par or under. The blend of those holes with shorter ones is one of the things that makes Oakway different than any other course in the Eugene-Springfield area.
By far one of the best things about Oakway is the prices.
For $22, someone can play a full 18 holes, while it’s only $15 to play nine holes. Add in a cart for $15 and golfers can play a full round of golf for $37, nearly half the price of an 18-hole round at most courses.
With the combination of great prices, environments and layouts, Oakway is a hidden gem in Eugene that is begging to be discovered.
Follow Ryan Kostecka on Twitter: @Ryan_Kostecka