Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/68546
Verna retired in 2008 from the sawmill business that they owned and operated for forty-six years. The culmination of years of blood, sweat and possibly a few tears, this 165 acre piece of property has now been transformed from a dense, bushy gold panning region to a landing strip for private aircraft to a now distinctive golf experience that will no doubt be a favourite local layout. The golf course is designed by Woodland Golf and it was one visitor's view on a recent visit that the layout looks to be a premium one, taking full advantage of the landscape, carved through gently rolling hills and natural vegetation. Following the natural contours of the property the golf course also avails itself of the stunning views available of the Golden Ears mountains and the Fraser Valley below. The dogleg right par-four 4th at Pagoda Ridge Golf Club may be the toughest on the course. With water running down the entire right side, tee shots will need to be kept left. Unfortunately the left hand side is bordered by wind-blown fescue that can be just as penalizing as the water. Things do not get any easier on the second shot. The narrow approach has trees left and right. Hidden behind some trees short right is a continuation of the pond that menaced errant drives. Also in the area are two bunkers just waiting to eat up any shots that are only slightly less to the starboard side. Says Larry Brown, "Don't be intimidated standing on the tee box, a good drive to the middle or better to the first pond on the right, gives you a good chance to be on in two." A par 72 stretching to over 7,000 yards from the tips, Pagoda Ridge is set to host the Tour Championship for the Vancouver Golf Tour this fall and at this stage it looks like the course will be more than capable of providing both a strong test of skill and of concentration with the views at hand. There are several strong par fours in the layout and the fairways are well defined, with 55 bunkers and just enough water to balance the hazard/aesthetics quotient. One of the most intriguing holes has to be the par 4 10th, which is slated to play at slightly less than 300 yards, with a green perched on a peninsula overlooking the Fraser Valley. It is a true risk/reward type hole that will vie with several others for the tag of 'signature hole' on this course. One wondered, was the 'Asian Infused Architecture' as it is referred to on the Pagoda Ridge website, borne of any family heritage or particular traveling experience? Continued On Next Page 76 2012 PAGODA RIDGE FEATURE