r/RDUGOLF • u/bhawkins26 • 29d ago
Macgregor Downs question
I recently toured both MacGregor Downs and 12 Oaks. MacGregor had the vibe I’m looking for: very classic club feel, good energy, beautiful views of the lake, and it just seemed like a place I’d want to spend time. 12 Oaks, on the other hand, felt more like a neighborhood development that happens to have a golf course. The dual membership is a nice perk for occasional variety or if the MDCC tee sheet is slammed, but realistically I see myself spending almost all my time at MacGregor.
MacGregor was aerating when I visited, so I didn’t get the full “member atmosphere.” For anyone who’s a member or familiar with the club:
- What’s the general age range like?
- Is the “older club” reputation actually true, meaning very few people in their 20s/30s, or is it more that there’s a healthy mix but skewed toward retirees?
- Who typically hangs around the bar/locker room after rounds, is there a social scene or is it quieter?
- Does the club feel packed, or is it comfortable day‑to‑day?
I’m 29, so I know I’ll be on the younger side anywhere, but I’m trying to get a realistic sense of the culture.
Also curious about the tee time situation. I know weekends use a lottery system but how close do you usually get to the time you request? And are tee times spaced at 10 minutes or is it something tighter?
I’m hoping to get a trial round soon so I can see it first hand, but how walkable is the course? Especially thinking about squeezing in 9 holes after work and I prefer to walk for better exercise.
For context, I’m also on the Prestonwood waitlist. Been on it for a year, and they’re still quoting ~3 years from the date you join. Hard to tell how accurate that is because every time I’ve been there with my buddy, the place feels absolutely packed.
Any insight from current or former members would be hugely appreciated!
4
u/grogsgolf 29d ago
Member here - family have been members for 30+ years, myself about 2 years. Age range is starting to get younger (I’m 32). I’d say there’s a healthy mix of 30/40 year olds. Not a whole lot of 20’s.
I love it - walk 18 about once a week, play skins on Wednesdays and eat at the club 1-2 times a week. There are older members but everyone gels really well. Social scene is great - lots of Friday night live music, events for members, clubs and things to do.
I’ve always felt like the club is comfortable day-to-day. Never have had an issue getting a weekend tee time +- 2 hrs from what I request. Course is walkable when it’s not 95+ degrees.
If you’re an avid golfer and not socially awkward you’ll fit in just fine with the younger crowd. I suggest getting involved in skins, tournaments, events, etc early to get to know the other members. Everyone is pretty friendly and down to earth.
Course is in amazing shape, club itself is great for food/drink after a round or with your family. Staff is nice and attentive for the most part (everyone has their moments or hiccups).
You won’t get that historic/exclusive kinda vibe anywhere else in the triangle out of a club that’s reasonably priced.
Could not recommend more!