A pre-Barclays round at Bethpage State Park's Red Course is a few strokes softer thanks to the behind-the-scenes work to prepare its next-door neighbor for the international spotlight. While the Black Course fills with tents and pavilions and all the trimmings associated with a professional golf event, the Red Course will go about its business until it closes to the public on August 18, but will boast a few yards less than normal along the way. The Red's classic par-4 opener is teeing off from the fairway while the area near the tee is scattered with equipment and trailers. Thanks to several Golf On Long Island readers for the tip.
Still, the hole plays around 360 uphill yards. Sure beats 471 yards (with a gallery of waiting golfers breathing down your neck).
Last day of play on the Red, Blue, Green and Yellow courses is Friday, August 17. The four will reopen on Thursday, August 30, followed by the Black on September 1.
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