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SANTA CRUZ SENTINEL THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2015 LIVE IT UP! 13 "G olf is a sport one can play for a lifetime," said Tim Loustalot, head golf pro at DeLaveaga Golf Course, a city-owned facility open to the public. Loustalot is a third generation golfer who grew up watching his dad play and manage the course since it opened in 1970. What draws so many people to golfing, men, women and kids alike, is the fact that it's a non-contact sport with no time constraints, Loustalot said. And the health benefits abound. "It's not an aerobic sport, like running or tennis, but it keeps you moving," he said. "You're outdoors, you're constantly walking, up to four or more miles, for the five hours of play." In addition, golfers find the social aspect of the sport very appealing. "It allows for real time interaction," said Loustalot. Golfing is especially popular among the business crowd. "You're not stuck within the confines of an office or boardroom, so it offers a unique opportunity to talk with clients or colleagues," Set upon 600 acres of parkland, DeLaveaga is one of the top ranked public courses in California. The facility combines natural beauty with a challenging, tree-lined fairway and offers a variety of playing options, from three to 18-hole rounds. There's also a driving range, junior leagues and women's leagues. Loustalot says that the course's unique park-like locale offers visitors an opportunity to explore nearby hiking and biking trails. "There's world class archery here and bird-watching has become very popular," he said. And unlike private country clubs, DeLaveaga offers reasonable rates. For example, an 18-hole round is only $45. For a beginner wanting to get out on the driving range, DeLaveaga has free loaner clubs. There are also low-cost rental arrangements available for fairway play. "Golf is a great sport for everyone to try," Loustalot said. "There are programs for just about everyone, and it's a lot of fun." For more information about DeLaveaga, go to http://www.delaveagagolf.com/ or call 831-423-7214. Golfing: Sport of a Lifetime by Susan Pascal photo by Patrick Smith