This par-72, 6,748-yard course was designed by Gordy Lewis, evoking an equestrian theme. Situated in a large Pulte home development and graced with boulevards, lovely plantings and pleasant landscaping. The course winds like a steeplechase through woods, marshland and water (on 15 holes). Bunkers adorn elevated, massive greens. The 18th hole—a 498-yard par-5 finisher—doesn’t let you forget just how big: the green, 62 yards wide, could house a paddock of six Kentucky Derby winners.
The course highlights the trifectas. Three of the par 3s are handicapped as the toughest holes on the course. This is unusual until you stand on respective tee boxes and try to decipher the club selection. The 2nd hole, handicapped 1 (perhaps the only par 3 in Central Florida with that distinction), is a 233-yard carry over water to a two-tiered green that offers no solace. There is no fronting lay-up area to soften a short drive and several bunkers travel up the left side of the front-sloping green, which is protected by a bunker in front, left, and a high-lipped mounded bunker in the rear. The circular green is nearly 30 yards in diameter. It’s an intriguing hole and a thoroughbred par 3.
The 5th requires you to carry water and marsh over 223 yards to a green virtually encircled by a horseshoe shaped bunker. The 17th is a mere 215 yards (handicapped 4) and is a long target shot trough a grave of trees to a rolling, elevated green. The 18th hole (that of the massive green) features a mild dogleg bending over ever so slightly to the right of the tee. Aim to the middle of the two palms and carry more than 200 yards over marsh to a mild and subtle landing area. Your second shot is a lay-up to the front of another marsh. The approach is to the full furlong green, which is elevated with subtle dips and a bunker in the rear.
From the starting gate to the extended finish line, Lexington Oaks is a gentle track that provides several laps of excitement and diversity. Head to the starting gate.
