Willow PondGC
Rantoul, Illinois
Willow PondGC Scorecard
| Front 9 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | OUT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Par | 4 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 36 |
| Blue | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| White | 346 | 499 | 403 | 222 | 445 | 506 | 121 | 347 | 385 | 3,274 |
| Red | 311 | 453 | 276 | 175 | 370 | 456 | 114 | 335 | 356 | 2,846 |
| Handicap | 3 | 1 | 13 | 17 | 7 | 5 | 15 | 11 | 9 | — |
| Back 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | IN | TOT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Par | 4 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 36 | 72 |
| Blue | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| White | 378 | 414 | 164 | 492 | 366 | 172 | 351 | 524 | 383 | 3,244 | 6,518 |
| Red | 370 | 319 | 152 | 423 | 296 | 121 | 150 | 415 | 370 | 2,616 | 5,462 |
| Handicap | 8 | 6 | 16 | 2 | 10 | 18 | 14 | 12 | 14 | — | — |
Tees, Slope & Course Rating
| Tee | Slope | Course Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Blue | 115 | 71.8 |
| White | 112 | 70.7 |
| Red | 114 | 71.9 |
Willow PondGC by the Numbers
Willow PondGC plays to a par of 72 and measures 6,518 yards from the white tees (5,462 yards from the red tees). The layout features 4 par-3s, 10 par-4s and 4 par-5s. The number-one handicap hole is the par-5 2nd — statistically the toughest hole on the course, while the 15th rates as the most forgiving. The longest test is the 17th, stretching 524 yards from the tips, and the shortest is the 7th at 121 yards.
About Willow PondGC
Willow Pond Golf Course features 18 holes with a par of 72, stretching from 5,462 yards from the forward tees to 6,518 yards from the back. With multiple tee options, including Blue, White, and Red, this course accommodates players of all skill levels. The layout encourages thoughtful shot placement, with its well-maintained fairways offering a mix of challenge and enjoyment. Expect a gentle slope rating that invites both beginners and seasoned golfers to tackle its greens, which are kept in excellent condition throughout the season.
What to Expect
As you prepare to play Willow Pond, expect a course that’s friendly for all handicaps, but particularly enjoyable for mid to high-handicap players looking to refine their skills. Watch out for the water hazards on several holes, which can easily disrupt an otherwise solid round. Course management is key here—choose your shots wisely, especially when approaching the greens. Take advantage of the forward tees if you want a more relaxed round, but don’t be surprised to face some interesting pin placements that may test your precision.
Fun Fact
Did you know that Willow Pond GC is named for the serene water features that meander through its landscape? These ponds don’t just add beauty; they also bring a strategic edge to the game, forcing players to think carefully about their shots.
About Rantoul
Rantoul, Illinois, is a charming Midwestern town known for its rich aviation history and vibrant community spirit. Originally home to a military base, the area now thrives with local boutiques and eateries, providing a friendly, small-town vibe. Just a short drive from larger cities like Champaign-Urbana, Rantoul offers visitors a taste of both rural life and city convenience.
Nearby Attractions
After your round, consider stopping by the Rantoul National Aviation Center, which highlights the city's aviation history through engaging exhibits. If you're looking for a bite to eat, local favorites like Gino's Pizza or El Toro Mexican Restaurant offer delicious options to satisfy your cravings. For those who want to extend their stay, the nearby Rantoul Inn provides cozy accommodations with convenient access to the golf course.