The Forest Oaks Invitational (The New GGO)

11 years ago I walked off of the 18th green of the Forest Oaks Country Club golf course after an exciting round of 72, even par. The round included 1 birdie and 1 bogey and only 2 GIR (greens in regulation). It was good enough to secure a victory in the Forest Oaks Invitational, over some of the top amateur golfers in NC thanks to a first round 7 under par, 65.

But I digress.

This year’s Forest Oaks Invitational, held in Greensboro NC, marked a new era in the tournament’s history as the golf course has undergone a redesign (Davis Love III in 2002) and a new management team (Troon Golf). Even though it is no longer host to a PGA Tour event (FOCC hosted the Greater Greensboro Open, The Chrysler Classic, The Wyndham Championship from 1977-2007) it is still a tour caliber golf course. I have to say I was impressed. The staff at Forest Oaks did an outstanding job at getting the course in great shape. A few complaints may come from the players due to the fact that the rough was worthy of a USGA championship, but the course was incredible. The staff was very professional from the proactive cart and bag attendants to the kind folks that served the food. Players were treated as welcomed guests of Forest Oaks CC. From the range to the tee, Troon’s professionals ran the tournament first class, complete with the starters and tournament officials in coats and ties. Lunch was included both days including an awards presentation at the conclusion of the tournament.

The tournament was 36 holes of stroke play which is flighted after round one. All handicaps were welcome and there was a senior division as well. As a nice touch, the final round hole locations were cut in the Sunday Wyndham Championship placements. I believe the tournament could grow into a premier event for amateurs warming up for the US Amateur or for local hoofers who just love competition and championship golf.

I wish I could say I hoisted the trophy a second time but this year did not unfold that way. It did unfold, but only for me on the greens, as I struggled with the flat stick shooting 74-79=153. It was good for t15 overall and t4 in 1st flight, but was a little disappointing as the winning score of 72-68=140 was not out of reach. It is funny that the difference between playing well and poorly is usually small. I am thankful for what I was taught years ago by a dear friend, Stephen, with College Golf Fellowship. Our identity doesn’t come from our score (good or bad), but from a personal relationship with the Father and his Son, and that we are joint heirs created for a purpose with the seeds of greatness within us.

So, if you are looking for a fun event that gets the competitive juices flowing and a great course to tee it up with friends, check out the Forest Oaks Invitational and put it on your calendar next year.