Four Itchy Feet

April 1, 2025. Triangle, Virginia.

Today, we played Forest Greens Golf Club in Triangle, Virginia. This course, which we’ve enjoyed previously, boasts a wonderful layout. Forest Greens is uniquely situated in a serene setting, free from distractions as there are no homes bordering this classic parkland-style course. Parkland courses, as the name suggests, are designed to resemble playing golf in a park. They are typically well-manicured, featuring man-made elements like dug bunkers, ponds, and built-up rough. Often, they are constructed in locations with less-than-ideal natural conditions, necessitating more intensive and costly maintenance of the grass and soil. Additionally, due to the lack of natural land movement and undulation, course architects must invest significant effort to add intrigue and excitement. A perfect example is the famous Augusta National Golf Club, in Georgia.

The course is located 34 miles south of Washington, D.C., just a mile west of exit 150B on I-95. The Quantico Marine Corps Base, home of the Marine Corps University, is only 5 miles to the east, and it’s not uncommon to be paired with students or other military personnel stationed there. Forest Greens generously offers discounts to Military members, Veterans, and First Responders.

Following a significant amount of rain the day before, the cart path rule was 90 degrees for the entire round. For those unfamiliar with this rule, it means you drive your golf cart along the cart path until it is even with your ball, then walk to your ball, hit it, return to the cart, and repeat. This naturally slows the pace of play, but we never felt rushed and appreciated the extra walking.

We had a glorious time, as always, at Forest Greens. Despite my final score of 99, I achieved something I never thought possible: I parred or birdied every par three on the course. I doubt I’ll ever repeat this feat, but it will certainly be a story I share at the clubhouse about the day I conquered all the par threes at Forest Greens. Barbara also had a great game, scoring her first-ever par four. We will definitely return to Forest Greens soon and highly recommend this wonderful course.