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Lackey Farms Pasture Golf Course

The golf : Every now and then the discerning golfer needs to break out of the mold and do something different. Now, thanks to the Lackey’s, the pastures of Thorndale provide the opportunity to play the game as it was in its beginnings 500 years ago.
At Lackey Farms they’ve created a course near their vineyard area, with fairways mowed out of the pastures and unimproved greens that feature two-foot-square sand holes to chip into. Leave your putter in the truck, but bring some apples for the horses that roam the fields.
The Lackeys have established their own unique set of rules that include provisions for dogs taking your balls, balls that roll down varmint holes, and the ingenious rule of allowing improved lies at any time. Grass fires are a hazard during drought conditions, so throw a fire extinguisher in your bag and pack out your smokes. There are no carts, but you can bring your 4-wheel-drive Mule if you have one. And bring your own beer while you’re at it.
The design incorporates six par 4s, two par 3s, and one par 5s. The par 35 layout plays just over 2,000 yards. The most notable hole is No. 8, a 180-yard (yes…180) par 4 that bends around a pond and offers the chance to reach the green in one if you can pull off the blind pitch over the dam and trees.
Don’t miss this one–it’s a hoot and only $7 to play.

The details : 512-898-0600. 801 County Road 439, Thorndale, TX 76577

• Don Lackey. 9 holes. Par 35. 2,350 yards. No carts. Price - $.

Getting there : From 79 east, take the loop around the south side of Taylor. Find FM 112, which veers to the right. Follow 112 about 8 miles. Turn right on FM 486 at Thorndale. Go approx 5 miles south on Hwy 486. Turn right (west) at CR 451–an unpaved road for first .5 mile or so.. It turns into CR 439 and becomes paved. Continue for 1.5 miles and Lackey Farms is on the right, atop the last hill on the road with a sign on the mailbox.