Black Sheep (1st & 2nd) - Illinois - USA

A fantastic 27 hole links course where you would least expect it. Generous fairways and large greens, but don’t be deceived. If you end up in one of the severe bunkers or stray from the fairway into the fescue, you will be in big trouble. Brilliantly designed from a strategic standpoint, many of the holes feature “speed slots“ on the fairways. Taking the most challenging line will result in a tremendous advantage if you can pull it off. But if you can’t, you’re looking at double bogey. Conversely, playing conservatively will work, but you won’t get very many birdies. In short, everyone can play here. Not a single weak hole on the property. In my view, best time to play is late September through early October when the fescue is up and takes on a brilliant shade of purple.

I've had the chance to play Black Sheep twice now and it's one of the few golf courses that I've given an excellent rating. As a golf architecture fanatic, I feel fortunate to have even been provided and opportunity to play this track. There are literally no bad golf holes here and if you are in the Chicago land area, I can guarantee you that you won't find a more serene setting (sidenote: I've never played Chicago Golf Club). This mens only club offers a casual experience which is a rarity for such an elite golf club. It is not stuffy at all and the members and the staff were all very friendly. The greens were fast and the conditioning was superb both times I played it. I cannot say enough about the beauty of this golf club.

If I could be a member anywhere in Illinois, make me a member here! 27 holes give you a heathland/links vibe yet you look out over a sea of corn making for a pleasantly jarring experience.

The best of the property is along the north side as it dips down from the clubhouse on the outgoing 9 and then travels along and around creeks and ponds.

David Esler is a very underrated architect and this is one of his gems and one of the best in Illinois for sure!

Fabulous layout. Very strategic design, great green complexes, relaxed understated atmosphere, firm and fast conditions. Everything a men's club should be. I only wish there were more courses like it in the greater Chicago area. The course is devoid of trees so watch out when the wind blows here, as it did the day we played all 27 holes. Take notice, this course puts local course designer David Esler on the map.