CLEVELAND — On June 9, Cleveland Metroparks announced that two of its golf courses were named among the top 30 municipal golf courses in America by GOLF Magazine.
Sleepy Hollow Golf Course in Brecksville was named the 13th best municipal course in America, while Manakiki in Willoughby was named the 27th best municipal course.
The GOLF Magazine 2021 ranking is the first to focus on public-access courses, which are frequently the country’s most accessible and affordable golf courses.
“We are thrilled to have both Sleepy Hollow and Manakiki recognized as among the best municipal courses in the country,” said Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian M. Zimmerman. “Municipal golf courses are often among the most affordable and accessible golf courses in the country and at Cleveland Metroparks we strive to offer high-quality opportunities for golfers of all ages and skill levels.”
Sleepy Hollow Golf Course features breathtaking views of the Cuyahoga River Valley and a classic “out and in” layout. Many amateur and professional events have taken place on the course, including qualifying events for USGA championships and the Greater Cleveland Amateur Championship, which is held every other year.
Renovations to bunkers and tee boxes, a new irrigation system, and a renovation to its private rental space in 2019 are among the course’s recent improvements.
The early holes on both nines, designed by Stanley Thompson, play downhill and into the prevailing wind, making them appear shorter than the yardage indicates. The incoming holes play uphill and into the wind, making them play surprisingly long. It also has one of the most challenging par threes in Northeast Ohio.
Manakiki Golf Course is a classic Donald Ross design that is open to the public. Doglegs, water hazards, up-and-down shots, back-to-back par fives, and two canyon holes are among the challenges on the course.
The maple-lined fairways, elevated tees and greens, and historic clubhouse – formerly a summer estate for prominent Cleveland industrialist Howard Hanna – add to the course’s picturesque beauty.