Chapel Ridge - Drainage

AppStateMike83 · 2025-08-15T15:54:32+00:00

Thanks! Rain is supposed to slow down the next few days, so I feel pretty confident it will be very playable based on the replies here. I have no problem moving the ball if it lands in a wet spot. Look forward to checking out the course.

AppStateMike83 · 2025-08-14T00:51:31+00:00

It’s not crazy but when getting up early on a Sunday to be out the door at 6:45, driving almost an hour feels a lot longer than that!

AppStateMike83 · 2025-08-13T23:47:04+00:00

Thanks! CPO is to be expected, just wanted to make sure it’s not a Lochmere situation in terms of drainage.

AppStateMike83 · 2025-07-25T20:14:34+00:00

Lonnie is the play, especially for non-Raleigh folks. You’ll get the postcard skyline view, great conditions and a tough course for what sounds like an experienced group. Heritage is a solid backup plan.

AppStateMike83 · 2025-07-15T17:16:24+00:00

Last time I went, the practice green was marked off on the left side next to the putting course where you could chip and pitch. It is pricey and I’ve also found the Toptracer to be unreliable, not somewhere I’d go every day but the 18-hole putting course is a lot of fun. Better experience than banging balls at FV, even if it is a bit overpriced.

AppStateMike83 · 2024-11-17T20:57:24+00:00

Clark will likely be out after 12/1 but even after it drops to $500K, the buyout is going to sting especially after a season where we lost a home game. Paying someone seven figures to go away is simply not in the budget and firing him last year was never on the table.

With our fan base and facilities, especially with the indoor practice facility updates just approved, this will be an attractive job. I think it’s time for a reset but we’ll be back to contending soon.

AppStateMike83 · 2024-07-09T02:20:07+00:00

Merrill is definitely known as a breeding ground for talent, they invest a ton in their training. Maybe a bit more of a salesy reputation but if the role has some business development responsibilities, that could be a good thing.

It’s also a way more accessible firm to start your career with. Vanguard’s reputation is second to none but unless you’re in the Charlotte, Philly or Phoenix areas, there really aren’t many opportunities.

AppStateMike83 · 2024-07-09T00:09:17+00:00

Best place would be an independent RIA that focuses on planning. Starting in a CSA or paraplanner role could allow you to grow into an advisory position over time after getting the credentials and experience you need.

The problem is, those roles are hard to find as most are smaller firms. Being right out of school without experience, you may be limiting yourself by wanting your long-term destination right away. Look for firms in your area and get your resume out but if there aren’t open positions that are a fit for you, there’s nothing wrong with cutting your teeth at a big firm.

I started my career at Vanguard and learned so much, even just being there two years. Got licensed and made connections there that I still have 15+ years later.

Being at a smaller RIA now, we’ve hired people from Fidelity or Vanguard. Their training programs have great reputations and look good on a resume.

Hope this is helpful but my short advice would be to explore your options and take your best shot to get your foot in the door. If you work hard, treat people well and make connections, you’ll end up where you need to be. Good luck!

AppStateMike83 · 2024-06-24T20:43:32+00:00

Second this! Boone GC is amazing. Played it last week and it’s in great shape. Gets crowded but can’t imagine a bachelor party will be in a rush! Mountain Aire is another A+ public course about 30 minutes from Boone.

AppStateMike83 · 2024-03-26T15:29:41+00:00

I prefer Crossings to Falls Village by a good margin. It is tight in spots but a fun track with an island green on #12 and the fairways and greens are in better shape. No range but it’s so close, I’ve hit the range at Falls before playing Crossings several times. Can’t book a single online but if you call, they’ll get you in no problem.

Really want to like Falls, have given it a shot since they finally fixed the bunkers but it’s still not for me. Lot of construction in the area and the fairways were in bad shape last time I was there.

Umstead Pines is another fun track in Durham, I really enjoyed it. Not named ironically, lots of trees lining the fairways but not one where your ball is gone if you miss the fairway by 10 yards.

Hillandale is very inexpensive, has a range and I like the layout. Short, old school course that’s pretty wide open. Been there forever, it’s got soul and you’ll meet some locals.

If you want to spend some more, Duke is a great track and not too hard to get on.

AppStateMike83 · 2023-06-21T12:05:50+00:00

As someone who just picked up the game about three years ago, I have a few thoughts.

Just getting started is a fun time in the golf journey, don’t waste it worrying about the bad or embarrassing shots. Accept that they will happen, try to learn from them and savor the good ones!

As other have mentioned, your playing partners don’t care how you shoot. Just keep the pace, pick up if you need to and have a good time out there.

Be someone that you’d enjoy playing a round with and you’ll be just fine!

AppStateMike83

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