Cheap rates still around at local courses

The unofficial end to the summer golf season is Oct. 31. From November all the way through the end of April, the unofficial winter season wreaks havoc for anyone trying to play in a timely fashion.

However, it's Thanksgiving that marks the end to summer's blissful season that affords inexpensive rates and the feeling you have the entire course to yourself.

Sure, area venues have gotten busier in recent weeks, but snowbirds visit the Sunshine State at a much higher clip than other places right after the Turkey Day holiday.

So with that in mind, here's a couple good places to hit up for some discounted rates:

River Run Golf Links is home to the Bradenton City golf tournament series, which could give the notion that it costs top-dollar to play.

Not so much right now.

Players can navigate the narrow track while paying a summer rate throughout November.

Since it's a city-owned course, players are allowed to walk - and at a $12 morning rate for 18 holes, it's quite the bargain.

This isn't too far away in nearby north Sarasota, but Rolling Green Golf Club hasn't succumbed to the high-season rates just yet.

The course is offering a round for $30 plus tax in the afternoon. It's $10 more in the morning.

But the real deal-maker during the holiday season is the Big Summer Golf Card.

The discount golf card still offers some price slashing to your round of golf at certain participating courses for November and December.

And many courses offer deals through signing up as an online member for daily e-mail specials.

So talk to the PGA club pro the next time you're in the pro shop, and ask if that course offers special rates for joining as an online member.