My Trip Out to Johnny Goodman Golf
So, I found myself with some free time in Omaha the other week. Needed to get out, swing the sticks a bit, you know how it is. Heard some folks mention Johnny Goodman Golf Course, sounded like a decent public track. Figured I’d give it a shot. Wasn’t looking for anything fancy, just a place to play 18 without much fuss.
Getting there was simple enough. Found the place without any trouble. Pulled into the parking lot, looked like your typical muni course setup. Nothing grand, but seemed like it got the job done. Headed into the clubhouse, which felt pretty straightforward. No fancy pro shop display, just the basics.
Walked up to the counter. The guy working there was pretty relaxed. Paid my green fee, wasn’t too expensive, which was nice. Decided to walk it, carry the bag. Felt like getting some exercise in. Didn’t bother hitting the range, just did a few practice swings near the first tee and went for it.
Hitting the Links
Out on the course itself, it was pretty much what I expected. Some holes were wide open, letting you grip it and rip it. Others were a bit tighter, lined with trees, making you think a little more off the tee. Had to be careful on a few approaches.
Course Conditions:
- The fairways were decent. Not perfect, carpet-like fairways, but definitely playable. Had some good lies, some okay ones.
- Greens rolled alright. A bit slow maybe, but consistent enough. Didn’t see too many unrepaired ball marks, which is always good.
- Bunkers looked maintained, had actual sand in them, not just hardpan dirt.
The layout had some challenge to it. Some uphill shots, some downhill. Made you think about club selection. Wasn’t overly difficult, but definitely not just a flat pitch-and-putt either. Lost a ball or two in the trees, naturally. Hit a couple of really good shots, followed immediately by some real stinkers. That’s golf for me, keeps you humble.
Pace of play was pretty good. Saw other golfers out there, but wasn’t really held up much, wasn’t pushing anyone either. Seemed like everyone was just there to enjoy a round.
Wrapping Up the Day
Finished up the 18th, felt like I got a solid round in. Walked back to the car, threw the clubs in the trunk. Didn’t hang around the clubhouse afterwards, just headed off. Overall, it was a good experience. Nothing spectacular, but a solid, honest golf course.
If you’re in Omaha and looking for a reasonably priced round on a decent course, Johnny Goodman is worth checking out. It’s not trying to be something it isn’t. It’s just a place to play golf, and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need. I’d probably play there again if I was in the area.
