Manatee Cove Golf Course opens to public Published May 29, 2009 By Jody Clor Manatee Cove Golf Course general manager PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Beginning Monday, the Manatee Cove Golf Course will be open for the public to enjoy. Golfers can download a base access application and fax or e-mail it to the golf course. Information about the process can be located by visiting www.GoPatrickFL.com and follow the link to the golf course tab button. Four years ago, the old clubhouse was replaced with a new 12,000 square foot facility. The catering department is capable of hosting tournaments, private parties, even weddings. The golf shop features all the latest club technology including a fitting center as well as a wide assortment of clothing, shoes and name brand sundry items. The restaurant is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. for breakfast and 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch. In addition the lounge is open from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily and offers food and adult beverages until closing. The course also offers both group and private lessons by two PGA professionals. The course was originally designed in the 1950s by world-renowned golf course architect, Robert Trent Jones Sr. Several years ago, Tom Fazio performed reconstruction surgery on three holes to accommodate new base housing. In all, the course covers some 220 acres of land, lakes and river frontage. Two years ago, the greens were reconstructed using a new breed of seashore grass, called Paspallum. This variety was found to withstand drought and salty conditions much better than the 419 Bermuda grass previously used on the greens. And when you visit us this summer, maybe you will be lucky enough to see the beautiful manatees swimming in the Cove bordering the first tee box. For more information, call 494-GOLF. Fairways and greens!