Top Ten
By Bill Hillgrove

Bill Hillgrove is a broadcasting legend in Pittsburgh. This fall will mark his 28th consecutive season calling Pitt Panthers' football, and his ninth as the play-by-play man for the Steelers. Hillgrove has also been the voice of Panthers' basketball since 1969. It's offseason for Bill so PSR has enlisted him and his 16 handicap to rate the top local golf courses.

"Your tee, Mr. Hillgrove."

1. Laurel Valley G.C.—Having covered major tournaments here, wielding a microphone is much less daunting than wielding a six iron.

2. Champion Lakes C.C.—Many more skilled than me call it "the best public course in PA." I won't disagree, I'm on a first-name basis with the owner.

3. Nevillewood G.C.—Used to think this Nicklaus creation was just OK. . . but the more I play it, the more I appreciate its fairness and its excellence.

4. Oakmont C.C.—Covered a few "majors" here too. Staring into a TV camera beats reading those greens any day.

5. Sewickley Heights G.C.—Have a substantial breakfast though easy on the coffee. The par fours are long, but the greens require a steady hand.

6. St Clair C.C.—Recent changes make a pretty golf course even prettier. Hit the 18th green in two, you should immediately take a litmus test.

7. Sunnehanna C.C.—This high ground bit o'heaven remains unscathed by all three Johnstown floods. Drop everything if you're invited to play this gem.

8. Alcoma C.C.—Deceptive greens on a top condition course. My home club makes the Top 10 or I'll be barred from the Par Bar.

9. Olde Stonewall—Those wonderous boulders so high on the hill may make you forget you don't have enough club to carry the hazard.

10. Latrobe C.C.—Not long but tight. A famous tractor is parked here. An even more famous golf legend may be playing behind you. Let him through and tell him "Thanks."