Exciting Developments in Brooksville Golf: Roost Course Opens at Cabot Citrus Farms
Brooksville, Fla. – Golf course design is truly seeing an exciting transformation, reminiscent of a musical era where more is more. Just as Phil Spector‘s “Wall of Sound” revolutionized music with its lush layers, the latest golf courses are stepping up their game with stunning layouts that are both awe-inspiring and intimidating. Enter the Roost, a brand-new addition at Cabot Citrus Farms, located just an hour north of Tampa, Florida. This course is making waves with its unique features and bold design choices.
The Collaborative Dream Team Behind Roost
Roost isn’t just another golf course; it’s the brainchild of an extraordinary team. Four skilled architects have come together to create this masterpiece. With Mike Nuzzo leading the charge, he was joined by Kyle Franz from the neighboring Karoo course, Rod Whitman of Cabot Links fame working on greens, and Ran Morrissett, the architecture editor from GOLF Magazine. This supergroup, if you will, has crafted an 18-hole experience filled with excitement and challenge.
A Course That Welcomes and Challenges
Taking the land of the former World Woods Golf Club’s Rolling Oaks course, Roost flaunts a delightful mix of elevation changes that keep the adrenaline pumping. Players will encounter breathtaking downhill tee shots, which can send the ball soaring, coupled with tricky uphill approaches that require a little more muscle. Don’t let the less cluttered look fool you; sand hazards still lurk around almost every corner.
The first few holes set the tone beautifully, with split fairways that invite bold play. In fact, Roost has six of these split-fairway holes, compared to Karoo’s eight. It’s a playground designed for golfers who revel in the thrill of a challenge but also appreciate moments of calm. The layout is dotted with strategically placed bunkers that create suspense— golfers often find themselves torn between the allure of wide fairways and the hidden dangers of sand traps.
Greens that Demand Respect
Roost’s greens add another layer of complexity, boasting substantial size and intricate slopes. The putting surfaces are fast, with some hole placements so tricky that they appear almost cruel. On a recent visit, players found themselves grappling with greens that turned their best efforts into mere tosses into the void, especially on holes like the notorious 18th. This hole plays uphill, with a semi-blind approach that challenges even the most experienced golfers.
Roost’s Highlights
The best parts of Roost shine in its more relaxed holes. For example, the opening short par-4 is a gentle introduction, leading players to a blind green. The dogleg-left par-5 9th hole, with its view of ancient live oaks, offers a stunning panorama that truly captures the beauty of the course. Then there’s the strategic dogleg-right 13th hole, which tempts players to squeeze their shots between a tree and a pond for a shortened approach. These moments are where Roost truly allows golfers to breathe and take risks.
Room for Improvement
However, it’s not all sunshine and birdies. The 18th hole presents a daunting challenge, crammed with too much going on. It feels more like three holes packed into one, making it a less satisfying ending to an otherwise thrilling round. A simple reduction in hazard count could significantly improve the flow.
Whispers of More Golf to Come
Looking ahead, Roost is set to officially open in January and is anticipated to become the flagship of Cabot Citrus Farms’ golf offerings. With more amenities in the works, including homes and additional courses, the excitement for Brooksville’s golf scene only continues to build. Could Cabot Citrus Farms’ next release be another overwhelming “Wall of Sand,” or are they eyeing something a bit more subdued? As golfers await the future, the buzz around Roost is palpable, and it seems safe to say that the thrills are just getting started!
