BEET NOT BEEF

Our last day in Morocco has arrived, and also the last day of our trip which began way back on November 1. It is fitting that we will golf on this last day because that is what we do, more than anything, it’s the golf. Today we will play Akenza. Virtually brand new, just out of the box a few months ago, but you would never know it………it looks to be in terrific shape, and from the pro shop we can see the sprinklers giving the grass a drink off in the distance. This course is billed as being Arizona inspired, and I get that……..definitely more texture to this course than the other two we have played, with a series of small ravines running through the property…….could have been a river at one time I am guessing. Just like the last two we played, this course is not difficult, and the fairways are generously wide…….moving back to the tips gets you over 7,000 yds. which would make a huge difference…….we are playing Gold at 6,380 yds……..plenty for me. I expect they have big plans for this property like it’s sister Assoufid just down the road………already survey stakes out mapping the new residences that will be built in the near future. There are a couple of foursomes in front of us but they are moving along just fine, and it looks like a pretty relaxed 4 hour round is in the cards. Akenza was probably my favourite of the three we played in Marrakech, but all of them should be on your list when you come over.

Early tee time = home in time for lunch…….good thing we made it back today because the chef has prepared a special treat for Jutta……..she has been raving about the beet ravioli dish that was a chef’s special on the lunch menu a few days ago, and he/she has prepared one especially for her. I mean where else would you get that kind of attention. We all make busy after lunch packing away the clubs and loading the suitcases hoping all the booty will fit in…….I have a new pair of pointy toed slippers that are absolutely special, a shirt from Akenza, and a couple of hats……..this list is minuscule when compared to the haul taken in by the goats, and holy crap, the Cosgrove’s had to buy another suitcase to go along with the two sea chests they arrived with. We always like to support the local economy!

We relax in our private living room (not really private) with our fire lit, and cocktails in hand, looking forward to the last supper in Marrakech. Our favourite dishes were ordered for dinner, and yes I finished it off with my last Gran Mariner souffle for dessert. Wheels up for our run to the airport will be at 3:45am…….I know, but it was the only way we could make it work for the return on Air France, connecting through Paris. This time tomorrow night (+6 hrs.) we should be home in Collingwood.