Reason to play » Affordable course for players of all skill levels, with three distinct nines and a country feel, although just eight miles from Beltway. Well-run with nicer facilities (clubhouse, terrace, range, instruction) than one would expect given the bargain price.

Historic perspective » Original 18 was designed by the prolific team of Ault and Clark, and was named Southview. Upon taking over in 1999, Atlantic Golf changed the name, replaced bentgrass with Bermuda, and added new nine in 2004, the Ridge, designed by Tom Walker.

A tale of three nines » Each of the nines as Potomac Ridge has its own character. The Meadows, the original front, is the easiest nine, flat and straightforward. The Hollow, the original back, is the toughest nine on the course, featuring tight doglegs, elevation change, and two large ponds. The newest nine, the Ridge, has blind shots, sloped greens, and requires more strategy, but is the most open nine with a links feel, and is short for a par-37 at 3372 yards.

Best hole » No. 9 (Ridge), Par 4, 423 Yards

After eight links-style holes, most of them short, the Ridge turns tree-lined with a stern dogleg left finishing hole. The second-longest par-four on the course has a tough approach over water.

Prettiest hole » No. 9 (Meadows), Par 3, 165 Yards

The most attractive stretch at Potomac Ridge begins with the short, downhill finishing hole on the Meadows and the first three, all challenging par-fours, on the Hollow. All the holes are tree lined with elevation change and a beautiful pond as the centerpiece.

Signature hole » No. 7 (Hollow) » Par 5 » 543 Yards

Players can cut distance with a well-placed tee shot, but to reach green in two requires a pair of daring, pinpoint shots. Best strategy is to gear down, go for placement on tee shot, and lay up to a safe distance, setting up approach to a well-guarded green that takes water out of play. Good risk/reward hole.

Rock lobster » Property was originally earmarked as a quarry, but owner decided to build a golf course. Conditions were poor on the rocky soil until hardy Bermuda grass was introduced. Although improved, some fairways still spotty. On a recent visit, a fungus had left circular bare spots, some a yard wide.

Rumor has it »  A developer plans to close the Meadows nine and build homes. But the talk has subsided with the struggling economy. Nothing is imminent, according to Potomac Ridge assistant pro Skip Martin. “If it happens, it won’t be anytime soon,” he said.

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