DestinationFAY

Gates Four Golf & Country Club GOLF Cumberland County is home to some of the state's finest golf courses. They include two designed by legendary course architect Donald Ross, one that launched careers of future professionals Raymond and Marlene Floyd, and another that's home to a popular annual celebrity fundraiser. Highland Country Club, located in the heart of Fayetteville, and Fort Bragg's Stryker Golf Course were constructed in the 1940s using Ross' distinctive designs. Ross, of course, also designed the historic Pinehurst No. 2 course that has been home to both the U.S. Open and U.S. Women's Open championships. Stryker is open to the public, but you'll need to find a member to play at Highland, which is a private club. Built among scenic wetlands, horse pastures, lakes and streams, Cypress Lakes Golf Course was developed by prominent local teacher and pro L.B. Floyd. Floyd's children, Marlene and Raymond, both honed their games on the course, and Raymond produced four major victories on the PGA Tour, including the 1976 Master's title. Gates Four Golf & Country Club has hosted many amateur and professional events, but it may be best known as home for the annual Stars & Stripes Celebrity Invitational. The tournament, which has featured the likes of Lawrence Taylor and Heisman Trophy winner George Rogers, raises money to support the military- and first responders. The 2022 tourney is scheduled for May 14-15. King's Grant Golf & Country Club, which has an undulating layout; Baywood Golf Course; and Fort Bragg's Ryder Golf Course round out the golf options in Cumberland County. Opened in 1990, Baywood is the newest of the local courses. It's not exactly Cumberland County, but a short drive west is the golf haven of Pinehurst, where the best women golfers in the world will gather June 2-6 for the 77th U.S. Women's Open Championship. It will be the fourth time the U.S. Women's Open has been played at Pine Needles, which was also designed by Donald Ross. Christie Kerr won one of her two major titles the last time the Open was held at Pine Needles in 2007. RUNNING Finally, for Cumberland County running enthusiasts, Fort Bragg conducts the All American Half Marathon and 5K in March. The races start and end at the new Liberty Park on Fort Bragg, which is home to about 54,000 Army personnel. To register, go to the race website at bragg.armymwr.com/ programs/all-american-races. Waltz, Tango, Swing, Salsa Bachata, Zouk, Carolina Shag Country 2-Step...and more! Private Lessons & Social Events 910-423-2623 Fayetteville, NC FILE PHOTO 32 DestinationFAY 2022-2023

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