COURSE PROFILE INTERVIEW: Gamble Sands

What You Need To Know: Gamble Sands

An Insightful Interview With Blake Froling, General Manager

Whether you have played a course 20+ times a year or looking to play the course for the first time, insights from an insider can help enhance your golf experience. Below is an interview with Blake Froling who shares some valuable tidbits about the course, memorable holes and must eats and treats at the 19th.

Give Our Readers An Overview of the Golf Course/Property
Gamble Sands is a world-class golf destination set high above the Columbia River in Brewster, Washington. Designed by renowned architect David McLay Kidd, the Sands Course is a true links-style layout with firm, fast fescue fairways, wide open vistas, and views that stretch for miles. Known for its playability and fun, player-friendly design, Gamble Sands is ranked among the top public courses in the country and offers an unforgettable golf experience for players of all skill levels. With additional offerings like the short course Quicksands, the Cascade Putting Course, and the new Scarecrow course opening August 1, the resort is a golfer's paradise.

If Someone Was Looking To Golf In The Area, Why Should They Play Your Course?
Gamble Sands isn't just another round of golf-it's a golf experience. With panoramic views of the Columbia River and Cascade Mountains, incredibly playable fairways, and unmatched hospitality, we offer something truly special. The vibe is relaxed, the courses are immaculately maintained, and the layout offers a rewarding and memorable round for every level of golfer. Whether you're here for the golf, the views, or the peaceful energy of Gamble Sands, this is the course people return to again and again.

What Tips or Local Knowledge Would You Provide To Help Them Score Better At Your Course?
Stay below the hole. The greens at Gamble Sands are large and undulating-being above the pin can make for some slick, downhill putts. Also, don't be afraid to use the ground game-many shots can be played bump-and-run style with great success.

On Quicksands, the key is imagination. The par-3s are short but tricky, so take advantage of the contouring to feed shots close.

Any recent changes to the golf course? Or any upcoming changes?
Yes-our most exciting update is the Scarecrow Course, a brand-new 18-hole layout also designed by David McLay Kidd, opening August 1, 2025. It brings a fresh experience to the property with new elevation shifts, routing through natural canyons, and bold green complexes.

We've also expanded our lodging and upgraded amenities in preparation for the increased guest demand, making Gamble Sands a full-service golf resort.

Recent Awards or What You Are Most Proud About The Course?
Gamble Sands is consistently ranked among the top public courses in the United States. It was named the #1 Best Public Golf Course in Washington by Golfweek, and frequently appears in national "Best Of" lists from Golf Digest, Golf Magazine, and more. What we're most proud of, though, is the overwhelming feedback we receive from guests who say it's the most fun round of golf they've ever played.

What Is The Signature, Most Talked About, or Most Photographed Hole?
Hole 2 on the Sands Course is hands down our most iconic hole. A short, drivable par 4, it tempts players to go for the green-but the real star here is the view. Standing on the tee, you're treated to an unforgettable sightline straight down to the Columbia River, framed by the majestic Cascade Mountains. It's breathtaking, strategic, and always a hot topic post-round.

What Is Your Favorite Hole? Any Tips to Play It?
I personally love the 7th Hole - a risk reward shorter par 5 that can give you a good chance at eagle or if you make a mistake it could add up quickly.

Must Have Dish or Drink after the round at the 19th Hole?
Any of our signature dishes featuring locally sourced Gebbers beef. Favorites include the melt-in-your-mouth short rib, the juicy Danny Boy Burger, and the perfectly seared ribeye. And don't miss the Tower of Tots-crispy tots tossed in BBQ sauce, layered with prime rib, melted cheese, sour cream, and green onions. It's comfort food at its finest. Pair any of these with a craft cocktail or local beer and soak in the panoramic views from the patio-the perfect way to toast a great day of golf.

For the traveling golfer, do you have lodging onsite or partner with any area hotels?
Yes, we offer lodging right onsite at The Inn at Gamble Sands, featuring well-appointed rooms with river or golf course views. Guests can choose from Double Queen, Double King, King, or King Suite accommodations, all designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. Staying on property means waking up to sweeping sunrise views and being just steps from teeing off.

Who Holds Course Record and What Was Their Score?
The official course record on the Gamble Sands course is 59, by two people in an event last year.


Back Tee Stats
Par: 72
Yardage: 7151
Slope: 120
Rating: 73.4

More Information
Gamble Sands 200 Sands Trail Road Brewster, Washington, 98812 509-436-8323

www.gamblesands.com