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

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.