Looking to shave strokes off your game? We've talked to three area professionals about how to improve your game no matter your skill level.

Wouldn't it be great to play a course made up of the best holes from our top area courses? We gave it a shot. It's called the Dream 18. Get an up-close view through a multimedia report featuring photos and descriptions of each hole as well as audio from Times staff writer Rodney Page telling you how to navigate your way safely around the course. Click here.

If you're planning on wiping the cobwebs off your clubs, or if you want to get a leg up on the players in your weekly league, may we suggest a lesson from your local pro? Here is a sampling of area courses and their rates.