Course Details
- Course Architect: Michael Hurdzan & Dana Fry (2003)
- Course Type: Resort, Public
- Par: 72
- Rating: 76.3
- Slope: 141
Course Accolades
- Golf Magazine: #3 in Alabama
- Golf Week: #29 Best New Course (2005), #68 Resort Course USA & #1 in Alabama
- Zagat: America’s Top Golf Courses (2012)
Course Score:
- Course Conditions: 8
- Green Complexes: 7
- Amenities: 9
- Practice Facilities: 8
- Service: 8
- Course Design: 9
- Value: 9
Overall Score: 8.28
The Good: Pursell Farms is an incredible 3,500 acre facility about an hour southeast of Birmingham. The resort centers around FarmLinks, the 18-hole Hurdzan/Fry designed golf course that is one of their best unknown public designs in the US. Rugged track with severe elevation, yet extremely fair, this course has some of the most fun Par 5’s, strong Par 4’s (particularly on the front half), and a Top 3 best foursome of Par 3’s that I’ve ever played. Great course conditions and good, large greens that only have slight undulation. Nice clubhouse that has a small dining area, while there is an extremely nice resort area that has multiple restaurants and lodging options. One of the better driving ranges you’ll find at a public course. Excellent staff and great value considering the quality of course.
The Bad: Greens were a little slow and the surrounding complexes weren’t in great shape, mostly impacted by a tough winter. Overall the design is fantastic, but some of the Par 4’s on the back nine tend to blend in or are too similar. Course had us tee-off on the back nine which was odd.
The Verdict: One of the best hidden gem courses in the country. Undoubtedly should get consideration for Top 100 public lists and worthy of high Alabama state rankings. One of the most fun, fair courses you will ever play.
Best Hole: The Par 3 5th has one of the biggest drops from tee-to-green that I’ve played. Unfortunately I didn’t take enough club…twice.
Midwest Golf Tripper 