The name itself (named after Sentry Insurance) doesn't say "stunning" "impressive" or even "golf" but the course is both of the first two and a whole lot of the third. A distinctive Robert Trent Jones, Jr. design, he pulled many of his famous architectural elements into one magnificent masterpiece. This particular 7000 yard Par 72 design weaves through birch and pine forested areas and around many a lake and stream. But the "signature" and most impressive (unique) element of the design is the flowers. Yes, flowers. 5 acres of them. That's roughly 26,000 square yards of flowers. 218,000 square feet of flowers. Wrap your head around that. Aren't golf courses supposedly bad for the environment?

Regardless, the significant and dynamic beauty of the flowers all comes together on the 173-yard 16th hole... the "Flower Hole." If ever there was a hole that begged for an elevated tee shot, it's this one. Alas, it doesn't exist, but that doesn't mean you won't marvel at one of the only waterless island greens in the world. Amazing hole. You feel great putting your tee shot to within six feet (and not hitting any flowers). The ensuing three putt sucks though.

It's a great course overall, in fact, with many other wonderful hole designs (4, 5, 12-14 and 16, 17) It is highly acclaimed in the state of Wisconsin, and with good reason. The service here is exceptional, the management extremely hands on. It's a tough course, but one that plays fair if you play to your appropriate tees (of the five sets that exist). The many tight fairways can make for some daunting tee shots, but the walls of trees give you a sense of privacy and create an environment of serenity... something you appreciate more when you realize how close to the freeway you really are. (Only noticeable on a couple holes.)

SentryWorld is a great course, betrayed by a poor name choice and mediocre website photography. (There are more beautiful holes than just #16!) In today's world of internet marketing significance, a course with so many scenic photo opps deserves better promotion. After you play it you'll agree.

Latest Update: 1/27/2011