3130 Rivermont Parkway, Johns Creek
770-993-1779; www.rivermontcountryclub.com
STAFF: Chris Cupit is the General Manager; Matthew Evans & Roger Keller are the PGA Head Professionals.
PAR/YARDAGE: Rivermont is a par 72 with four sets of tees: Red (7,112 yards); White (6,470); Blue (5,742); Gold (5,003).
COURSE RATING/SLOPE: Red (74.6/139); White (71.6/131); Blue (68.4/123); Gold (69.4/125).
ABOUT THE COURSE: A Mike Riley renovation five years ago has significantly changed the look and nature of the popular but low-key club, which has been around since the early 1970s. Riley took the solid, understated Joe Lee design and gave it a new character and look. Riley’s renovations have enhanced the natural feel of the layout, with native grasses and shallow, brown sand bunkers that give the course more of a retro appearance. Riley’s changes were much more than cosmetic, with the back tees adding a hefty 345 yards and the next set 90 yards longer despite four holes that are a total of 100 yards shorter than pre-renovation. The new greens have considerably more movement than they did originally, with some interesting swales and ridges that will put your putting touch to the test when you have to negotiate them from long range. One thing that has remained the same from Lee’s original design is the need to drive the ball accurately. With creeks lining a large percentage of holes and OB and tree lines also very much in play, errant tee shots will be harshly penalized. Although Rivermont still has its share of bunkers, Riley has altered Lee’s surround-the-greens style, with few approach shots having to clear sand to reach the putting surface. The course features its share of standout holes both visually and strategically, with one of the strongest 1/18 combos around. The par-4 first is one of the toughest openers you’ll encounter, and the first example of the danger that awaits if you stray to either side. Other highlights are a drivable but perilous short par 4 (11), a long, narrow and hazardous par 5 (7) and a dramatic downhill par 3 with a huge green that will make you think you’re in the mountains. With sizeable gaps between tees, there are several combo sets with the senior and forward tees both a good bit shorter than originally. A lot of course from the tips. A lot of fun from the remaining tees, but with ample challenge.