Golf in Lake County, Florida

Black Bear Golf Club

Changes to the 18th hole to put the 'bear' in Black Bear Golf Club

Black Bear Golf Club is located at 24505 Calusa Blvd. in Eustis.To schedule a tee time or for more information, call (352) 357-4732.

Carving of Black Bear

While the trademark of this golf course is a Florida Black Bear, a more fitting moniker might be a championship trophy.

The unique 18-hole Black Bear Golf Club of Eustis, which closely resembles European links style play, offers a perfect venue for tournaments and qualifying events.

"The pros like the wide open course because they can stand up at the tee box and just grip and rip it," said Rafe Kirian, proshop manager. "The factor that really comes into play is the wind. We have just enough elevation where it becomes a significant factor."

As if this course, which includes four sets of tees measuring from 5,000 to 7,000 yards, wasn't hard enough, the course owners – the Carson family ‑ decided to toughen up the final hole by adding two water features and a new tee box. When completed this fall, the new changes are expected to make the 440-yard 18th the number one handicap hole for the course.

The new tee box will add 40 to 45 yards for professional players with the lake guarding the green coming into play at about 300 yards. Players will then have to carry about 140 yards over the water to an undulating green.

"We're so wide open around here, this will be one hole where you'll stop and consider your options," said Ken Maltby, course superintendent and general manager.

While the 18th is sure to be a "bear," the rest of the course is no slouch. Rolling hills, 127 sand bunkers, long par threes and several small greens, make play challenging for any skill of golfer.

"What I like about the course is it awards precise approach shots," said Frank Magee, tour director of the Moonlight Golf Tour, which is based in Seminole, Fla. "It's one of the courses that is farther from our operation, but it's definitely one of our top three courses to play."

Black Bear Golf Club is located at 24505 Calusa Blvd. in Eustis. To schedule a tee time or for more information, call (352) 357-4732.

Recent renovations to the golf club are not all on the links. The proshop and Bear's Den Grill received a facelift in 2004 with a new patio seating area complete with an outdoor fireplace and new stone and tile features.