A Course You Can Play: RedGate, Rockville

Par: 71.

Length: Back tees, 6,432 yards; middle, 6,114; forward, 5,714; ladies, 5,271.

Rating/Slope: 71.7/131; 70.2/128; 68.3/124; 70.2/121.

Architect: Thurman Donovan.

Most distinguishing trait: Hills can make this layout a burden despite its relatively short yardage, so be prepared for a workout if walking. At the same time, elevated tee boxes create panoramic views on many holes and effectively shorten the distance from tee to green. Club selection becomes paramount on these holes, such as the par-3 second that plays 153 yards downhill from the middle tees.

Toughest hole: No. 16 can make the most skilled golfer cringe. It is a 478-yard par 5 that demands precise distance control off the tee. Long hitters can try to blow past the water that awaits some 235 yards from the tee, but only a titanic drive would be able to clear the upslope that protects an elevated green. Laying up short of the water provides no guarantee either. That's because a severe downslope of fairway rough approximately 30 yards long guards the first landing area.

Best chance for birdie: No. 15 provides a prime scoring opportunity and serves as a much-needed confidence builder heading to the treacherous 16th. Fifteen is a par 3 that plays 126 yards from the middle tees, slightly downhill. The only dangers are sand on either side of the fairway well short of the green and another bunker beyond the green to the left.

Practice facilities: The driving range sits next to the 10th fairway and consists of 10 mats. One drawback is the range extends less than 200 yards, preventing practice players from enjoying -- and improving -- long drives. Range balls are not included with greens fee.

Spike policy: Soft spikes.

Rates: Monday-Thursday, $26 to walk, $38.50 with cart; Friday-Sunday, $31 to walk, $43.50 with cart.

Directions: From I-270, take exit 4 (Montrose Road) and follow to Tower Oaks Boulevard, then turn right on Wootton Parkway and follow approximately three miles to Avery Road. Turn left on Avery Road. Golf course is on left at 14500 Avery Rd.

Phone: 301-309-3055.

Web site:www.ci.rockville.md.us/FACILITY/redgate.htm