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The Summit Club at Armonk – The Future Looks Bright

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On September 19th, 2023, the headlines in the Yonkers Times newspaper read, “The Summit Club Armonk Gets Approval to Build Westchester’s First Residential Golf Community.” It may not look like much right now, but in due time, things will change. For now, Summit Club consists of an 18-hole golf course and a trailer that serves as the pro shop, snack bar, and sales office.

The Club’s history is unique. It was originally named the Canyon Club and was owned by Mitsubishi, which built the property so that its local executives could play golf nearby. Community residents were allowed to join the club, yet very few did. As membership dwindled and expenses mounted, the Canyon Club fell on hard times. Real estate developer Jeffery Mendell saw an opportunity and teamed up with a couple of other investors to purchase the club. Mendell had seen the success of golf communities in Florida and Arizona and thought, “Why not Westchester, NY?” Finally, more than 12 years later than planned, zoning and building permits have been approved, and it’s full steam ahead!

The Summit Club sits on 156 acres of prime real estate in Armonk, NY; the golf course occupies 130 acres. The remaining 26 acres will be used for residences, 72 units across 6 buildings. These residences will range from 2,535 to 3,237 square feet and feature ultramodern interior designs, extra-large private outdoor terraces with fireplaces, and tremendous golf course views and countless miles beyond. I can only imagine how beautiful those hills will look in the fall.  The underground parking garage will have elevator access to each condominium and individual storage rooms/wine cellars for residents. All traffic in and out of the complex will be monitored from a 24/7 gated guardhouse.

As for the golf course, it was originally designed by Albert Zikorus and opened for play in 1961. In 2011, a fairly extensive renovation was done by Rees Jones that included the rebuilding of all fairway and greenside bunkers, redesigning three holes, updating an outdated irrigation system, and adding several tee boxes.  At the time, he claimed that his course improvements “Will make The Summit Club at Armonk a place where any level of golfer can enjoy a natural landscape that offers dramatic elevation changes and stunning panoramic views of the New York countryside.”  After playing the course just once, I agree!

Jones has done a great job incorporating many of the land’s natural features – lakes, marshlands, and tall fescue grasses – into the layout to make it more challenging and give it character. You’ll encounter significant elevation changes in both directions as you play your way around the course, prompting you to use every club at your disposal.

The first hole at The Summit Club at Armonk is at one of the highest elevation points of the course and presents tremendous views of several surrounding holes. The second hole is a dogleg right that plays 355 yards and considerably downhill; it’s named Fade Away for good reason. Play your tee shot well left of the large trees on the right side; otherwise, you’re likely to find the long grass but not your ball. You may be able to hit something less than driver off the tee because of the slope of the hole, but it’s almost a 200-yard carry to find the fairway. A good line off the tee is the tree line on the left. If you hit a good drive with a little fade, you can get to the bottom of the hill just short of the green. Two white sand bunkers guard either side in front of the green. It’s a great hole to make up an early stroke!

Number 6 is the first par 3 on the golf course and well worth the wait! From the Blue Tees, it plays 185 yards with bunkers in front to take away the bump-and-run.  The green isn’t that deep but has some great undulation and character. It’s slightly elevated, and anything that rolls off will leave a delicate up and down.

The 7th hole is a 390-yard par 4 dogleg left with an interesting twist – a right-sloping fairway! For most players, the approach shot will be uphill and blind onto a triangular-shaped green.

The back nine starts with a short and interesting par 4 playing 315 yards from the Blue Tees. You’ll tee off from an elevated tee box downhill with sand traps on either side of the landing area. Your approach shot plays straight uphill into a large green with a false front. Hit it short, and it can easily roll back to where you are – or worse!

Number 14 is a very pretty 500-yard, par 5 that plays dead straight with out-of-bounds and an expressway on the right. Westchester Magazine has recognized #14 as one of the great new golf holes among the county’s recently improved or renovated courses.  If you’re a long ball hitter, beware of the marshlands on the left. There’s a large fairway bunker on the right side in the landing area of your tee shot and a few others on the left side of the landing area for your layup shot. Two good shots will leave a short pitch into an elevated green that is a lot wider than it is deep. There’s also a rock-lined creek about 50 yards short of the green that can’t be seen from the fairway.

The finishing hole at The Summit Club at Armonk is a 485-yard, par 5 that plays uphill the entire way and has a very narrow fairway. There are trees on either side of the landing area if you spray it off the tee, and a fairway bunker on the left side about 110 yards short of the green in the landing area of your layup shot. The elevated green is protected by four bunkers in front. It’s a very challenging – but fair – finishing hole.

Although space is limited within the temporary trailer, you can still find a good selection of logoed Summit Club golf gear, including hats, polos, outerwear, towels, tools, and more. Currently, there aren’t a lot of options for food. Chef Jose and his on-site food truck offer tantalizing food after your round, or you can simply grab a beer and relive the good and the bad with friends.

The Summit Club is all about raising the next generation of golfers, and PGA Director of Golf and Instruction Michael Davis is at the helm. Davis seamlessly melds traditional teaching methods with cutting-edge technology. He’s dedicated to helping young golfers reach their potential and make a positive impact through the game. As a Member, your kids can take part in PGA Junior Camps, instructional lessons, and a whole lot more.

The Club also pays special attention to Ladies and Seniors, offering instruction, friendly competition, and a chance to meet new playing partners and develop new friendships. Special programs have been put together for both seniors and ladies.

The Summit Club in Armonk isn’t your grandfather’s country club; there are no social demands or the staunch bureaucracy you’ll find at many traditional New York clubs, and there never will be! What you’ll find are superb playing conditions, ostentatious attention to detail, and respect for all. You’re pretty much free to do as you please – within legal and moral bounds!

The Summit Club at Armonk offers several membership plans to meet everyone’s needs and budgets. A Full Golf Membership gives you, your spouse, and any children under 24 unlimited access to the course, driving range, and practice area from Tuesday to Sunday. You’ll receive priority tee times, complimentary golf lessons, flexible guest privileges, and many other benefits. All Members have access to Palmer Advantage Privileges, giving you elite privileges in golf, travel, and entertainment worldwide. The network includes 300 clubs scattered across North America, complimentary greens fees at 125+ courses, and access to top venues through exclusive Member golf days. Contact the pro shop to check on other Membership categories such as Founding Member and Legacy Member.

When you become a Member of The Summit Club at Armonk, you’re securing your future in what is destined to become one of the elite clubs in the area. For more information on membership or what the club will look like down the road, visit them online at www.thesummitclub.net or www.summitclubresidences.com

The Club at Ibis – 54 Holes of Golf and a Lifetime of “Wow!”

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Florida is a much sought-after destination for retirees or those sick and tired of the winter weather. Having recently turned 64, I now fit into both of those categories.

And it makes sense. Having grown up in the “snow belt” in London, Ontario, I had seen more snow in 17 years than most will see in a lifetime. Florida offered an opportunity to see sunshine all year round, although sometimes the summer heat can be downright oppressive. And as an avid golfer, it allowed me to play golf twelve months a year.

What’s interesting about migration into the state is that there are two steady streams of newcomers. Midwesterners – from Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio drive down I-75 and usually settle on the west side of the state – Sarasota, Tampa, and Fort Myers. Northeasterners flock southward on I-95 and head to the east side – Boca Raton, West Palm, and Miami.

Those who sell their home up north and head to the West Palm Beach area should consider the Club at Ibis as a final destination. It’s a community that has it all, especially for those who like to stay active. Behind the security gates are 33 neighborhoods with over 1850 homes and just about every recreational amenity you can think of.  Their tennis program is as good as any in the area, with 15 Har-Tru tennis courts that are fast-drying and were specifically designed for senior players with comfort and playability in mind. The Club also features four new pickleball courts so that you can indulge in the world’s fastest-growing sport.

Then there’s the 15,000-square-foot Fitness Center with the latest cardio and strength-training equipment, interactive televisions, a Yoga Wall, and personal trainers at your disposal. The Aquatic Center boasts a resort-style swimming pool with a cascading waterfall, a 25-yard lap pool, a hot tub, and a splash zone for the kids.

But the centerpiece of the community is the three Nicklaus golf courses: The Legend Course, designed by the Golden Bear himself, the Heritage Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus II, and the Tradition Course, designed by Steve Nicklaus.

The Legend Course opened in 1991. In 2017, the course underwent a major renovation and is described by Jack himself as a “masterpiece.” Golfweek Magazine named the Legend Course one of the country’s “Most Distinctive Courses.” The signature hole is the par-3, 13th, with an elevated island green fronted by a beautiful stone bulkhead. The hole can be played anywhere from 81 – 167 yards and is a stern test of distance control and accuracy. Compared to other Nicklaus courses I’ve played, The Legend is rather tame, with no crazy roller coaster greens or extra-long forced carries. It’s a course that is player-friendly yet tests your mettle.

The Club at Ibis offers what I think is the best practice facility in the area. It was completely redesigned a few years ago and required over 20,000 cubic yards of material to raise the range and significantly improve drainage. The new range is almost 15 acres in size with an “X-shaped” fairway pattern between the target greens to allow players to practice a variety of shots. Every shot will react the same way it does on the golf course, allowing members to hit shots they think they will encounter during their rounds. The renovation also included a new 10,000-square-foot putting green and five new short game greens spread between two different practice locations. The range is symmetrical, which allows golfers to spread out and enjoy the same experience from either end. The north end is used more for short warm-ups before a round, while the south is used more on longer practice sessions and features the all-new Toptracer technology across the entire tee area.

Installing the new Toptracer technology was a big deal and served a couple of purposes. First, it’s a great practice tool and allows players to track their shots with all major swing data, including swing speed, ball speed, and curvature. It’s also a great place to play with the kids or let the competitive juices flow as they participate in various games with other members.

During your trip to the range, you’re likely to see what looks like little Roomba vacuum cleaners. They are actually Echo robots and are used to gather range balls and keep the turf well-manicured at the same time. It turned out to be an effective way to reduce labor costs and keep the range looking its absolute best.

When it comes to dining, The Club at Ibis offers Members and their guests several options, from casual to elegant. The Pub offers comfortable seating and is a Member favorite. With walls full of big-screen TVs, it’s a great place to watch your favorite sporting events while dining from the Pub menu.

Another dining venue, Panache, offers Members and their guests a fine dining experience with à la carte cuisine.  The glass-top bar in Panache’s relaxing lounge is the perfect place to enjoy your favorite cocktail or glass of wine. As a bonus, Panache offers diners a rare opportunity to dine inside the kitchen with a tableside dinner show and wine tastings for your group as Executive Chef Jerome and his culinary team create a memorable dining experience. All this without leaving the community!

The Club at Ibis is a mandatory membership community, meaning that you have to live inside the gates to be able to enjoy everything the club has to offer. To see what’s available on the real estate side or to arrange a visit to the property, visit www.clubatibis.com.

The Georgia State Park Cup!

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The Georgia State Park Cup is a two part team competition. Create your team of 2 and sign up at any of the qualifying events listed below. You may play in multiple events but must pay entry fee for each event you choose.

If your team qualifies you will earn a spot in the State Park Cup Championship. The championship event will include all qualified teams to crown the best 2-person team in Georgia. The Championship event is an all-inclusive trip and will be at no extra cost to qualifying teams. Championship Event information further down the page.

Each event will be a 2-person scramble event with no mulligans, throws, handicap strokes etc. Each 2-person team will play with another team to ensure all scores are kept accurately. Rules information further down the page.

Schedule:

Highland Walk Golf Course

Victoria Bryant State Park, Royston 5/10/2025

Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course

Richard B. Russell State Park, Elberton        5/17/2025

The Creek Golf Course

Hard Labor Creek State Park, Social Circle               5/31/2025

Championship: Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course

Richard B. Russell State Park, Elberton        6/14/2025

Championship Event

27-hole championship event. Teams will be repaired after first 18 based on position. All golf and meals will be included for all players. Extra room nights will be available at pre-determined rate.

Championship Event Timeline:

Friday:

12:00 – Resort Check-In

1-3:00 – Practice Round

7:30 Champions Dinner/Awards Ceremony

Saturday:

8:00 am Registration/Breakfast

9:00 am Shotgun start

11:30 Lunch at turn

3:00 Re-pairing of groups and 9 hole final shotgun

6:00 Champions crowned

Any questions please contact Karl Gross karl.gross@dnr.ga.gov

Hidden Creek and Bluffton Golf Clubs – Find a Hotel and Make it a Weekend!

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Hidden Creek and Bluffton Golf Clubs, located in Lima and nearby Bluffton, OH, are two incredible golf courses that are open for public play. Neither is overly long, and with slope ratings in the mid to high 120s for men, they offer both a challenge and a good time.

Both courses are owned and operated by the Floyd Young family in Bluffton, OH; a family that has etched its name in golf history, at least in this part of the country. Family patriarch Floyd Young has been in the golf business since 1969. He worked at several golf courses in Germany and Japan from 1967 to 1969. When he returned to the States, he went to work at PGA National, where he remained until 1975.

In 1971, the PGA Championship was being held at his home course, and Floyd caddied for Jack Nicklaus. He must have been Nicklaus’ good luck charm because he went on to win the tournament!  Floyd turned professional in 1972 and headed north to Firestone Country Club in Akron, OH, where he served as an assistant under Bobby Nickels for 7 years. He left Firestone to become the Head Golf Professional at Cambridge Country Club, serving in that capacity for fourteen years. In 1989, the family took a leap of faith and purchased Bluffton Golf Club;  Hidden Creek Golf Club in Lima was added to the portfolio in 2008. In 2014, Floyd Alan Young was inducted into the Lima/Allen County Golf Hall of Fame.

Ask any golfer who played Bluffton Golf Club before the Young family purchased it and many would tell you that it was in terrible shape, often referred to as “a goat track.” Ask them what they think of it now, and you’ll hear it’s one of the best-maintained public courses in the area. You’ll quickly see why “See the difference, Play the difference” has been the Club’s mantra for many years. It is the home course of several schools in the area, including Bluffton High School, Ada High School, Temple Christian, and Cory Rawson High School.

What they have is truly a family affair. The lush, green course conditioning can be attributed to Floyd’s son Luke, who oversees maintenance at both courses. Luke may have a “managerial” title, but you’ll often see him on the course trimming the grass around one of the many ponds, running a mower, raking a bunker, or doing whatever it takes to keep the facility as lush as it is. Luke takes great pride in the courses and is very hands-on.

Luke has been the superintendent at Hidden Creek Golf Club since 2009 and at Bluffton Golf Club for the past 5 years. With his wife Drue’s recent retirement, Floyd’s daughter Wendy Young has taken on the daily operations at both clubs. If you’re looking to host a tournament or catered event, give Wendy a call! She’ll make sure everything runs smoothly!

Bluffton Golf Club was built in 1937 by PGA TOUR professional Ken Mast, a local man better known for basketball in the state than golf. Bluffton GC gives you five sets of tees to choose from, so finding a yardage that suits your game, and you’re sure to enjoy yourself. From the Blue Tees, the course plays 6616 yards with a slope of 129 and a par of 72. yards. Move up to the White Tees and the yardage and slope drop to 6,148 and 118 respectively. These tees provided a fitting challenge and allowed me to leave with some dignity! Ladies, juniors, and seniors will enjoy the Red Tees at 4,490 yards.

The course features Bentgrass tees, fairways, and greens. Looking at the size of the trees that line several fairways, you can tell that Bluffton GC is a mature golf course. The winding Little Riley Creek comes into play on 13 holes, often cutting across the fairway immediately in front of the green, taking away any chance of running the ball up to the hole. There are also a few small lakes to play over and around.

An interesting aspect of Bluffton GC is the back-to-back par 5s at the 2nd and 3rd holes. Number 2 plays 502 yards and is straight as an arrow. A couple of small fairway bunkers dot the landscape in the landing area off the tee, as do mature trees here and there on the peripheries. A good drive will leave an opportunity to go for the green in two. With very little trouble around the green, it’s a good chance to make up a stroke or two. The 3rd hole is another straight par 5 that plays 472 yards. The creek is in play off the tee but shouldn’t pose a problem for most golfers. Your approach shot will require accuracy as several large trees shrink your margin of error and a grass bunker crosses the fairway directly in front of the green.

In 2009, the Young family took another leap of faith and purchased Golf at Sugar Creek in  Lima and changed the name to Hidden Creek Golf Club. After several years of neglect, it was heading in the same direction that Bluffton was when they purchased it. Luke accepted the challenge of resurrecting a once mighty golf course, and today’s finished product is a testament to his hard work. The course is carpeted in Bentgrass from tee to green and is pretty wide open, making it a favorite of seniors and beginners in the area. Water comes into play on at least 10 holes – more if you spray it. The fairways are lush; the greens roll true and are full of subtle undulations.

Hidden Creek plays 6,852 yards from the Back Tees, not being masochistic, I found the White Tees (6,312 yards) provided a fitting challenge and kept my interest. Five sets of tees provide a suitable yardage for all players, regardless of their ability and enjoyment for all skill levels.

The course has several holes that will test your skills, especially a couple of the par 3s. Number 2 is a 200-yard par 3 that requires a lengthy carry over water into a small green that slopes back to front towards the water.

I love courses that end with a par 3, especially ones as challenging as the 18th hole at Hidden Creek. It plays 199 yards from the White Tees and is heavily tree-lined on both sides, creating an “all-or-nothing” scenario off the tee. The 10th hole is an interesting par 5. It’s a big dogleg left that plays 490 yards. At the corner of the dogleg is a large boomerang-shaped pond that catches a lot of balls from unsuspecting – or in my case, unknowing – players. Once you navigate the pond, the hole plays uphill into a small green protected by the hills that surround it. It’s a hole that takes thought and patience to play.

Both courses have driving ranges and practice putting greens, so you can loosen up before your round or just spend the day honing your skills. Both also have clubhouses where food and beverages are available and pro shops with everything you’ll need for your round, including logoed apparel that you can take home as a memory.

Both Bluffton and Hidden Creek are favorite venues for local charity and fundraising golf events. Hidden Creek’s large outdoor pavilion can accommodate golf events of any size and can seat up to 225 guests. The sides of the pavilion can be let down in inclement weather. The large charcoal grill and full-service kitchen allow them to serve buffet-style meals for all outings and events. Give Wendy Young a call at Hidden Creek a call if you’re interested in learning more.

The goal of the Young family is to create an excellent experience for members and guests in an environment where all players can play, practice, and enjoy the spirit of the game, all at a reasonable price. The Youngs and their entire staff are dedicated to providing you, your family, and friends with top-notch service to ensure you have an enjoyable and memorable round of golf.

Hidden Creek and Bluffton Golf Club are just 6 miles apart. Each one provides a unique and diverse golfing experience. If you find yourself wanting to go back and play the courses over and over, consider an annual pass. It gives you access to both courses and includes a golf cart; range balls can be included in your membership for one low price. This annual pass is one of the best golf values in the area. For those visiting the area, find yourself a local hotel and play a couple of great local golf courses run by a golf legend!

For more information on either course or to book your next round, league, or outing, visit their websites: www.hiddenvalleygolfclub.net or www.blufftongolfclub.net.

Great Golf Off the Beaten Path in Newaygo County, Michigan

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Here’s what I put together as a sample itinerary.

On the first day of any golf excursion, you never want to bite off more than you can chew so I suggest starting with something easy – OK, easier. The Summer Breeze Golf Course on Warner Ave in Fremont, MI is a par 3 course featuring 9 holes that range in length from the 75-yard 2nd hole to the 180-yard seventh. It is easily walkable, and you don’t need more than an 8 and 9 iron, a couple of wedges, a putter, and whatever you hit 180 yards.

Considering it’s a par 3 course – meaning you should hit the green from the tee box every time – there’s no need to pay a lot of detail to the turf between the tee and green. The green complexes are well-maintained, and the greens are firm and fast with subtle undulations that will make you want to play the course again. If you’re not using a tee, it’s a great way to practice approach shots, and, with the greens being smaller than what you’ll encounter the rest of the week, it helps with accuracy.  Summer Breeze is a great place for beginners to learn and play the game.

After your first nine, head inside to Brew Works www.fremontbrewworks.com, where they have arguably the best steaks in the State. Their steaks are locally sourced and dry-aged for 21 days before they are hand-cut and served with mashed potatoes and gravy, a side salad, and a roll. Brew Works offers several local beers on tap, along with a full-service bar. Neither the golf course nor the food will disappoint you.

I suggest playing nine in the morning, grabbing a bite to eat at Brew Works, and playing nine more in the afternoon. Cap off Day One with dinner at Smugglers at North Shore. It’s an amazing waterfront restaurant with outdoor dining and enough outdoor activities to keep the kids busy. They offer one-of-a-kind menu selections such as Pork Belly Lollipops and Mexican Street Corn Ribs for appetizers, a Fried Goat Cheese salad, and several interesting entrees like a Walleye Po Boy, a Truffle Mushroom Gruyere Burger and Lobster Mac and Cheese. Their wood-fired pizzas are very popular too.

You’ll need a place to stay during your visit so check out the Harrington Inn in Fremont. This charming hotel offers well-appointed and spacious rooms, with many of the amenities you would find at luxury hotels including a complimentary hot breakfast, an onsite fitness center, and a heated outdoor pool. Best of all, it’s centrally located to the golf courses you’re going to play. Choose one of their State Rooms and bathe yourself in luxury!

Day two of this golf trip calls for 36 holes, beginning at Northwood Family Traditions Golf Course. (www.facebook.com/Northwoodfamilytraditions). According to Stan in the pro shop, the course fell on hard times a few years ago, and the new owners are determined to return it to its original glory. While it’s still a little rough around the edges in some spots, it’s player-friendly and provides a challenge. There’s a small irons-only driving range and a putting green to get you warmed up before heading to the 1st – or 10th – tee. Northwoods offers two sets of tees (His and Hers) and a lot of cowbells that keep up the pace of play. The course plays 6,218 or 5,253 yards and has a large number of blind shots throughout the round that add to the challenge and intrigue of the golf course. Plus, it’s the best golf value in the area.

There are some nice elevation changes, most notably on the 9th hole which features an approach shot over water and then uphill at least an extra club or two. The greens are well-maintained and are always in great shape. Grab a quick bite in the pro shop  – they have fabulous hot dogs – before embarking on your second round of the day at Waters Edge Golf Club, about 6 miles away.

Waters Edge (www.watersedgefremont.com) is a somewhat demanding golf course. It came under new ownership in 2016, and the new owners have invested significantly in the property. When the building of The Bunker practice facility resulted in the rerouting of two holes, Waters Edge turned to renowned Michigan golf course architect Ray Hearn to redesign the 5th and 6th holes.  He also redesigned the green complexes around the 9th and 18th greens and is slated to do further design work on the 10th and 12th holes. Overall, it’s a well-maintained golf course that provides a fitting challenge for golfers of all abilities.

You’ll find a fair amount of elevation change as you play the golf course. It’s particularly evident on two of my favorite holes, Numbers 10 and 11. Both are par 4s – 380 and 335 yards, respectively, and both have water in play on the right side off the tee, which is not good for the average right-handed golfer. Number 10 can be a tricky tee shot with the fairway sloping left to right – towards the water.

At 335 yards, the 11th hole may seem easy, but with a creek running through the landing area, maybe not. You tee off from a highly elevated tee box to a narrow fairway with water right, trees left, and a creek in front.

After your afternoon round, head up the hill to The Lakes Restaurant and indulge in their delicious menu. Start with 1 lb. of smoked chicken wings before moving on to your main course. The steaks are fantastic and cooked to perfection; the baby back ribs and prime rib are only available on the weekend, so plan accordingly! The fireplace room makes it an excellent location for parties and large groups.

Cap the evening off with a visit to The Bunker, which features eight heated Toptracer bays that can seat up to six people. Toptracer uses some of the industry’s top-rated range technology to enhance the overall driving range experience. The system captures a lot of data about the golf swing, which is vital for improving your game. When not being used for game improvement, Toptracer can be used to play famous courses virtually and for other games and competitions. These bays can be used year-round, and with a full-service bar and fixed food menu available, it’s a great weekend entertainment venue during the winter months. Head back to the hotel and get ready to play again in the morning before departing the area.

Pilgrim’s Run Golf Club in nearby Pierson, MI became an 18-hole golf course in July 1998, and since then, there has been no looking back. Pilgrim’s Run has received high praise and several well-deserved accolades from notable golf media sources such as Golf Magazine, Golf Advisor, and Golf Week, and a 4 ½ star rating from Golf Digest.

The golf course is the brainchild of Robert Van Kampen, a Chicagoland entrepreneur who moved to the Grand Haven Michigan area to pursue his vision of building and owning a championship golf facility. Van Kampen was a devout Christian and a student of the Bible; he also collected rare and ancient copies of the Bible. One of his favorite works of Christian literature was The Pilgrim’s Progress, a book written in the 1600s by an Englishman named John Bunyan. This is where the golf course and each hole get their names.

Van Kampen called upon six friends and business associates to help design the golf course. Each person selected three numbers out of a hat and designed that particular hole. Up-and-coming golf architect Mike DeVries took their designs and laid out the course, which is pretty much what you see today.

You’ll find a good mix of holes, including several that offer risk/reward-type opportunities. Standing on several holes, the course first appears somewhat intimidating; however, the spacious landing areas and no out-of-bounds say otherwise!

One of my favorites is the 4th hole – aptly named Deception. It’s the first par 3 of the day and truly lives up to its name. The hole plays slightly downhill, however, if you don’t hit enough club and find the massive false front, you can expect the ball to roll back at least 25 ft. The green is protected by four deep and challenging bunkers.

This was my first time playing any of these courses, and I look forward to getting back and playing them again. For more information on golf in Newaygo County and to see all of the courses in the area, visit their website at www.newaygocountyexploring.com/golf-courses.

The Wisconsin Country Club – A Home Away From Home

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The golf property at 6200 W. Good Hope Road in Milwaukee, WI, has seen its fair share of change, but the one constant that has remained is a high-quality golf course. The original club was named Brynwood Country Club and was founded in 1926; the golf course followed in 1954. Fast forward to 2009, and Brynwood is purchased by The Wisconsin Club and enjoys a 14-year partnership with The City Club, a downtown Milwaukee social club. In 2023, Concert Golf Partners takes ownership of the Wisconsin Club and changes the name to The Wisconsin Country Club.

As a condition of purchasing the Country Club,  Concert agreed to spend about $1.8 million to complete several projects that were already underway, including repairs to the golf course, security upgrades, a refurbishing of the clubhouse, and the addition of a Kids’ Club.

The original golf course at the old Brynwood Country Club was built in 1954 and for years was considered one of the best golf courses in the area. It was designed by William Diddel and played 6,700 yards. Over the years, several architects have tweaked the golf course, including a $3.5M makeover by renowned architect Bruce Hepner in 2014.

As you make your way around the course, you’ll find a mix of tree-lined fairways and wide-open holes, with strategically placed bunkers that lead to intricately contoured Bentgrass greens seamlessly woven into the topography of the land.

Wisconsin Country Club eases you into your round with a short par 4 opening hole that plays 338 yards from the White and Blue Tees. It’s a blind tee shot, and the only thing standing between you and success on your tee shot is a lone fairway bunker on the left side. Avoiding the sand leaves a relatively easy pitch shot into the green that slopes gently from right to left.

Depending on which sets of tees you are playing from, the 3rd hole is either a 3-shot par 5 or a chance to make up some ground. From the Blue Tees, the hole plays 506 yards; move up to the White/Green Tees, and it drops considerably to 428 yards. The hole plays straight away with fairway bunkers on the left side of the landing area off the tee. A good drive will leave a chance to go for the green in two; otherwise, lay up to the landing area about 100 yards from the green, but be sure to avoid all six fairway and greenside bunkers.

The par 4, 7th hole places a premium on accuracy. It’s a 374-yard hole that doglegs to the right about 300 yards off the tee. Good drives pushed to the right or hit too far straight may find water. There’s a trio of bunkers short of the water on the right that need to be avoided otherwise, you’re facing a long approach shot over water from the sand. What this green complex lacks in bunkers, the green makes up for in undulation!

Your round at the Wisconsin Club finishes with a 447-yard par 5 and starts with a significant carry over water off the tee. Once you navigate this hazard, the remainder of the hole plays uphill toward the clubhouse. Your layup shot will require accuracy as trees converge on the fairway from either side and fairway bunkers in the landing area. Success thus far will leave a short pitch shot into an elevated green surrounded by three bunkers. It’s a hard green to reach in two, and par is never a bad score!

The knowledgeable and attentive golf staff can help with every aspect of your golf game. They can help improve your swing, and the wide selection of golf equipment and logoed apparel in the golf shop can have you looking your best and swinging the latest gear. The practice facility is ideal for hitting every club in your bag, grooving your chip shots, and zeroing in your putts. Each day, the staff at The Wisconsin Club strives to provide the finest course conditions to ensure that each round is challenging and rewarding. When the weather cools down, the TrackMan monitor heats up and is ready to help you hone your skills or play competitive games with friends and family.

The Wisconsin Country Club is the top-rated family-oriented club in the area, and the improvements that Concert has agreed to make are only going to strengthen that position. Between their active swimming complex, extensive golf instruction programs, and children’s camps, there’s something to keep kids active and entertained. It’s no wonder the children tell their parents that they “want to go to the club!”

In addition to a top-rated facility in Northern Milwaukee, members also have access to the Wisconsin Club, located in the historic Mitchell Mansion in downtown Milwaukee. Here, they can enjoy a gourmet meal and participate in special member-only events. They also have access to valet parking, a shuttle service, and tickets for premium events throughout the area. Should you prefer the courts over the course, The Wisconsin Country Club offers 4 hard tennis courts and 6 pickleball courts available for open play, clinics, and social events.

Kids and adults enjoy the heated Junior Olympic-sized pool with its kiddie pool, slide, and full-service snack bar. The Fitness Center is a great place to meet like-minded members and take charge of your physical health. Inside, you’ll find everything you need for a great workout, including treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, and a wide variety of weight-training equipment. You’ll find it’s an easy way to stay active and fit!

Many families and local companies have held events at The Wisconsin Club. Space is available for anything from small, intimate get-togethers to cocktail receptions and large events. Events can be held at several venues, including one of the beautiful outdoor areas that have become a photographer’s dream for weddings. The Club is perfect for bar mitzvahs, weddings, and corporate events, and you don’t have to be a member to host an event. The same is true for golf tournaments, fundraisers, and charity events.

If you’re new to the Milwaukee area or are looking to start afresh at a different club, pay a visit to Wisconsin Country Club and let General Manager Don Tracy show you everything the club has to offer. TWCC offers several membership plans, including a Full Golf Membership, a PTF Membership, which gives you access to the pool, tennis, and pickleball courts, and a Social Membership. There are no food and beverage minimums and no assessments, ever! You’ll also enjoy member privileges at other Concert properties around the country so you can blend in.

Regardless of whether you’re a serious golfer or just play for fun, The Wisconsin Country Club is a great place to make new friends, discover new beginnings, and enjoy a great social life. For more information on what The Wisconsin Club has to offer or to book an appointment to see it for yourself, give them a call at (414) 353-8800 or visit their website, www.thewisconsincountryclub.com.

Forsgate Country Club – Fabulous Golf on Two Distinctly Different Courses

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Forsgate Country Club was the brainchild of John A. Forster, a Scottish immigrant who arrived in the US literally in rags, but through hard work and dedication, went on to become the chairman of Crum & Forster Insurance Company.

Forster was an avid golfer who purchased 50 acres of land in Monroe Township right before World War I. He used the land as a dairy farm, which he named Forsgate—a combination of his surname and his wife’s maiden name, Gatenby. Forster continued to operate the dairy farm and did quite well; it was perhaps his most profitable business venture. In 1921, the Cranbury Press reported that Forsgate Farms had broken a World Record for producing the most milk in sixty days.

Forster continued to buy up land around the farm to create a “playground” for his employees – a golf and country club. In the late 1920s, he commissioned Charles Banks, an associate of C.B. Macdonald and Seth Raynor, to design the golf course. Clifford Wendehack was hired to design the clubhouse.

Banks’ foray into golf architecture is interesting. He was an English teacher at the Hotchkiss Preparatory School in Lakeville, CT, and a member of the school’s building committee. When the school decided to build a nine-hole golf course and hired renowned designer Seth Raynor, Banks worked closely with Raynor on the project and became so fascinated with golf course design that he left teaching and went to work for Raynor, eventually becoming his partner. When Raynor passed away in 1926 at the tender age of 47, Banks took over the business and went on to design and build about 30 courses until he died in 1931. He earned the nickname “Steamshovel”  by using heavy equipment to dig out those deep greenside bunkers you’ll see on every hole. Unfortunately, neither Banks nor Forster lived to see the opening of Forsgate Country Club. In 2007, architect Stephen Kay made several modifications to bring the course up to modern standards, and he’s been tinkering with it ever since!

Over the years, the Banks Course has received its fair share of accolades including a Golf Digest ranking in the top 20 courses in New Jersey from 2015–2018 and 2021–present, a #13 ranking by Golf Magazine in the state in 2020–2021, and the 12th best Biarritz holes in the US by Links Magazine. The club is also highly ranked on Top100GolfCourses.com.

With Forsgate, Banks has created a challenging parkland-style golf course with rolling fairways that produce a variety of stances that require finesse and creativity.  These meticulously maintained fairways lead to some of the most incredible green complexes in New Jersey. You’ll find 18 elevated greens that vary in shape and size, some with false fronts and others with classic features such as a Redan and Biarritz. Each green complex has incorporated bunkers that sit well below the putting surface, some up to 16 feet.  Banks was a master at creating replica holes, and many of the holes he built were inspired by some of his Scottish favorites. Many golf historians consider Forsgate to be among Banks‘ top three designs.

Forsgate is full of memorable holes, but none more than the par 3s at #3, #7, #12, and #17. It’s not often that you’ll find a course that handicaps its par 3s at 7, 5, 18, and 8! Number 3 is the first par 3 and plays 169 yards from the Forster Tees. The hole plays slightly uphill and over a deep valley. The green is surrounded by bunkers on three sides: the front right bunker sits about 12 feet below the putting surface and creeps around in front of the green. There’s also a bunker behind the green to catch anything long. The green slopes sharply from back to front, making a shot from the back bunker a lot tougher. In the event you find yourself above the hole, it’s not hard to putt yourself off the green. Banks obviously had a sense of humor – he named this hole Eden!

The 7th hole plays 183 yards from the Forster Tees and features a Redan green. The hole plays slightly downhill with very deep bunkers on either side of the green. The right side bunker is long and narrow and helps protect the front of the green, which slopes from left to right and has three tiers. Anyone who finds the left bunker will have a blind shot from the sand. Fittingly, Number 7 is named Redan!

At 140 yards, the 12th hole is the shortest par 3 on the course. The hole plays slightly downhill across a valley, with the green slightly below you. bunkers on either side of the green wrap around the front to grab anything short and take the senior-friendly bump-and-run shot out of play. The bunker on the right sits about nine feet below the surface, and the fall-off behind the green is very steep with tall fescue at the bottom. The bowl-shaped green can be tricky to putt. For obvious reasons, the hole is named Horseshoe!

The last of the par 3s is the 17th hole, the famous Biarritz! At 201 yards from the Member Tees, it’s the longest – and most difficult – par 3 out here. The green is enormous, almost 75 yards long, with bunkers on both sides running the entire length of the green. The swale between the front and back portions of the green is one of the deepest I have played and sits four feet below the front and back sections. With the Biarritz playing about two-thirds of the way into the green, back pin locations are very difficult. The 17th green is usually the last green mowed in the morning and requires two talented greenskeepers to do the job. Even then, getting the job done takes twice as long!

In addition to the challenging par-3 holes, the finishing hole will test your mettle. From the Forster Tees, #18 plays 394 yards and is dead straight, and, if the wind is blowing, dead into it. A good tee shot over the first valley will leave a mid to long-iron approach over a second valley into a small green protected by bunkers on either side. Beware of the bunker in the right front; it’s one of the deepest on the course, and your way out may not be at the green.  The green complex is one of the most challenging on the course. Anything over the green will leave a downhill pitch shot onto the green. The 18th hole is aptly named Purgatory.

In 1961, golf architect Hal Purdy created a 9-hole layout and returned a decade later to add another nine. Arnold Palmer renovated the golf course in 1995 and later the course was named in his honor. The scenic Palmer Course features water hazards on 10 of its holes and is enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.


On top of two fabulous golf courses, Forsgate has some remarkable practice facilities. There’s a full-length driving range where you can hit every club in your bag, a short game area with a bunker, and a practice putting green.

Forsgate Country Club is a warm, welcoming, family-oriented club with countless recreational opportunities and social pursuits for the entire family. In addition to two superb golf courses, members have access to Forsgate’s 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center, pickleball courts, and the junior Olympic-sized swimming pool complex. Each year, the staff puts together a calendar of entertainment, special themed dinners, and events to highlight each season.

The Gatenby Grille and Bar is a great place to grab a bite to eat, enjoy a favorite beverage, and catch up on the latest club news. During the season, Gatenby Grille’s terrace is open for dining under the stars and enjoying beautiful sunsets over the Banks Course.

The best way to enjoy all that Forsgate has to offer is to become a member. They offer individual, family, and corporate memberships that don’t require a sponsor. A Full Golf Membership gives you access to everything Forsgate offers, including their winter indoor practice golf simulator. For more information, contact the Director of Membership or go online and fill out an application. www.forsgatecc.com

The Hawthorns Golf & Country Club – Indiana’s Premier Family-Oriented Private Club

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In the words of world-renowned golf course designer, Arthur Hills, ” The championship golf course at the Hawthorns Golf & Country Club ranks among my very best designs spanning a 37-year career.  The course is playable for all levels of golfers and is exciting to play over and over again, which in my humble opinion is the true definition of a great members’ golf course.”

The Hawthorns Country Club is located in the master-planned community of Hamilton Proper in Fishers, Indiana. As you make your way down tree-lined boulevards that lead to the club, you’ll find a variety of homes ranging from luxury estate golf course homes to maintenance-free communities. There are 23 unique villages within Hamilton Proper, and many properties offer serene views of the golf course and the wetlands you’ll encounter as you play your way around the course.

The Arthur Hills-designed championship golf course offers golfers five sets of tees and can be played from as short as 5,616 yards up to 7,126 yards. The course winds through over 275 acres of woods and wetlands and features scenic, meticulously groomed fairways and bent grass greens. It can be as challenging as you want to make it.

The course has several memorable holes; the two I remember most are #2 and #14. The 2nd hole is a 408-yard par 4 dogleg right that pays downhill. Playing your tee shot down the left of the fairway will provide the best angle into the green, just beware of the lone fairway bunker in the landing area. A good drive will leave a long to mid-iron approach shot into a long, narrow green with a single bunker guarding the front right. It is the course’s #1 handicap.

Playing a mere 279 yards from the White Tees, you probably see the 14th hole as a pushover, however, this par 4 signature hole demands accuracy from the tee; the longer the club you select, the more the bunkers near the green and water come into play. Once you get 150 yards out from the tee, the water runs up to and around this elevated green. Double bogeys are more common than birdies here.

Finishing holes are usually a challenge, and such is the case at The Hawthorns. Number 18 is a 398-yard par 4, dogleg left, with some risk/reward opportunities. A good drive can cut the dogleg, but it requires a long carry over a waste bunker and wetlands that run up to and around the green. The best play is to carry as much of the waste bunker as possible and leave yourself a long, manageable approach shot into an angled green. There’s plenty of trouble, too; a lone fairway bunker on the right side of the landing area, three fairway bunkers about 40 yards short of the green that eliminate running the ball up to the pin, and another guarding the right side of the green. Par is a great way to end your round at The Hawthorns Golf & Country Club.

In addition to an 18-hole championship golf course, there’s a full suite of practice facilities including a full-length grass driving range where you can hit every club in the bag, a short game area where you can practice chipping and pitching, practice putting green, and a fully equipped Golf Shop that offers the latest in logoed apparel and equipment.

We all know that the weather in Indianapolis can be fickle, especially during the winter months. The Hawthorns has a solution for wanna-be-year-round golfers that doesn’t include a trip South. The Trackman golf simulator room is where you can keep your swing grooved during the winter months or hang out with friends and family and play courses you may never have the chance to in real life. You can work on things like shot trajectory and attack angle, practice approach shots and chips, or play some games on-screen. With a quick call to the Catering Director, this could become a memorable private event.

If you’re a tennis player, Hawthorns has six outdoor hard tennis courts, three are lit for night play. You can sign up for open play or get involved in the Club’s extensive tennis program. Various events and clinics are available for men, women, and couples. Pickleball lines have been added to several courts so that you can participate in America’s fastest-growing sport. The Hawthorns’ professional tennis staff offers private lessons and clinics for everybody,  including juniors. The tennis courts are open daily from April – October, weather permitting.

During the summer months, The Hawthorns’ heated Junior Olympic-sized pool and splash pad become a popular family gathering place, too. Kids love the diving boards and slides.  The large pool deck has plenty of reclining lounge chairs, and the poolside Arbor Grill serves soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches, entrees, flatbread pizza, and more. Kids can participate in The Hawthorns’ Interclub Conference Swim team and compete against other clubs in the area. Private and group swimming lessons are also available. Like most clubs, Hawthorns’ pool is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

There’s a good reason why The Hawthorns is recognized as the premier family-oriented club in Indiana. Many Club activities are geared toward younger members. Junior tennis and golf, summer camp, tots camp, Kids’ Night Out, dances, and much more are included. And each year without fail, the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus show up; just not together! New activities are constantly added to keep the kids busy, socialized, and learning.

The Hawthorns provides Members, their families, and guests with superior social, recreational, and dining experiences and offers a Member-first approach to everything they do. As a Member at The Hawthorns, you’ll have access to all club amenities, including the heated Junior Olympic pool, a fully equipped fitness center with cardio, weight resistance, free weight areas, childcare, the children’s playground, men’s and ladies’ locker rooms, and six outdoor tennis courts.  You will also enjoy reciprocals at all Concert Golf Partners properties nationwide.

There’s no better way to see firsthand what The Hawthorns offers than to schedule a visit. While you’re there, be sure to ask about the Titanium Dual Gold Membership, which entitles you to the golf course and all club amenities at The Sagamore Club, about 15 minutes away. That’s two country club memberships for one low monthly payment. It’s one of the best country club membership values in the US! For more information or to set up a visit, contact them at (317) 845-9100 or visit them online at www.hawthornscountryclub.com

 

Sand Creek Country Club – Great Golf, Great People, Great Value!

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In the late 1960s, Northwest Indiana was recognized as the most productive and efficient steel-making region in the country, given its proximity to the Great Lakes. Bethlehem Steel purchased lakefront property to build a steel mill as well as thousands of acres in the Chesterton area. In 1974 they designated about 600 acres to build Sand Creek Country Club including a clubhouse and tennis and pool facilities.

When the recession hit in 1982, the steel industry took a major hit and the club was eventually sold and then sold again to the Lake Erie Land Company. The residential side also took on a new focus as can be seen when you make your way around the golf courses. Many of these homes are spectacular!

Concert Golf Partners – experts at revitalizing underperforming private clubs and making them flourish – purchased Sand Creek in October 2014 and asked the members what they wanted. They ultimately decided on pool area upgrades and new informal dining areas, all of which you’ll see on a tour of the club. Still, you may be asking yourself, “Why would they purchase a private club in a small Indiana town, best known for standup comedian and actor, Jim Gaffigan?”

The folks of Concert Golf Partners look to the future and see potential. With 27 holes of award-winning golf, it’s like having three 18-hole courses at your disposal. The Creek, Lake, and Marsh courses never play the same way twice. Several holes are considered some of the most challenging golf holes in Indiana, not only for the challenge they offer but also for their beauty.

But perhaps a bigger reason is the potential that General Manager Mike Longyear sees. “There are a lot of private club members in the Chicagoland area who don’t want to pay a 6-figure initiation fee, so they will drive right past the Chesterton exit on I-94, go an extra 45 minutes, and join a private club just east of us. If they only knew we were here.”

Sand Creek Country Club is a world-class facility located in Chesterton, Indiana. The golf facility has been recognized as one of Golf Digest’s Top 10 courses in Indiana and the “Best in Golf” award from Links Magazine. Sand Creek was the first fully certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System in Indiana and has been the home course for the Valparaiso University men’s and women’s golf teams since the start of the 2017-18 season. It has been the home of the Northern Amateur – one of the biggest amateur golf tournaments in the country – since 1983 and attracts players from all over the world.

The Creek and Lake courses comprise the original 18 holes and were built by Chicago architects Killian and Nugent, who also designed Kemper Lakes and other well-known Chicago courses. Jerry Mobley and Charles Howard of Desert Springs Company designed the Marsh Course which opened for play in 1996. In 2000, Sand Creek received the Golf Course Superintendent’s Association of America’s National Environmental Steward Award for U.S. private golf courses.

Sand Creek Country Club offers golfers five sets of tees that can be played anywhere from 5,162 yards to over 7,000 yards, so finding an appropriate yardage is easy for any level of golfer. As you make your way around the course you’ll experience rolling terrain, extensive wetlands, and tremendous greens. During the course of the day, you’ll use every club in the bag – at least once.

I found the shorter holes to be some of the most challenging. Number 3 on the Creek Course is a 330-yard par 4 with a risk-reward proposition off the tee. You can play your tee shot out to the left in a traditional manner and leave an approach shot of 120 yards into the green or risk it and take the water on which will leave a much shorter approach. I advise only going over the water if you have a clear view of the landing area from the tee box. Anything over the boomerang-shaped green will leave a tough up and down.

The 7th on the Creek Course plays 150 yards from the White Tees. It’s not long by any stretch, but the four bunkers surrounding the green place a premium on accuracy. The green is two-tiered which places an emphasis on club selection.

Number 6 on The Lakes Course plays 158 yards from the White Tees, and brings water back into play. The green is surrounded by 3 bunkers and, while the back portion of the green is a lot easier to find than the front, be aware of the large mound that splits the green in half from back to front.

Inside the Golf Shop, you’ll find all kinds of logoed apparel from the top brands and the latest equipment. The pleasant and knowledgeable staff of golf professionals can have you looking good and help you get the most out of your game.

The clubhouse at Sand Creek is one of the most beautiful facilities in the country. This 50,000-square-foot Italian Renaissance-style clubhouse features a grand ballroom with separate meeting rooms. The formal dining room serves gourmet cuisine and the grill room is a great place to grab a quick bite before your round or share a drink and appetizers afterward as you tally up your winnings.

There’s also an executive dining room, a tennis and swimming complex, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a Trackman indoor golf practice studio. And, with their beautiful Outdoor Terrace, Sand Creek has become an ideal location for events of any size and can accommodate outdoor functions for up to 1,000 guests.

Although located in Northern Indiana in prime snow country,  Sand Creek Country Club offers year-round golf entertainment. During the spring and summer months and into the fall, you can play three unique 9-hole championship layouts. When the weather turns cold and the white stuff starts to fly, move it indoors and play/practice at the Club’s Trackman indoor facility.

If you prefer the courts over the course, or you simply need a break from the links, Sand Creek has four USTA tennis courts and offers a variety of tennis programs for players of all calibers and ages. Their professional staff can help elevate your game and get you involved with other like-minded members. Their Health Club offers the latest in exercise equipment and spa services, and there are separate locker rooms and lounges for both men and women. Sand Creek’s free-form pool is the perfect place to swim some laps and the kids will love the diving board, water slide, splash pad, and kiddie pool.

If you’re looking to join a private club or are one of those Chicagoans who is driving to a private club in Michigan, Sand Creek offers a membership plan that will fit your needs and your budget. You can significantly cut down your drive time and spend more time with family and friends, enjoying their company and playing courses that are probably better conditioned and more challenging. Sand Creek Country Club offers an award-winning golf course, all of the amenities you’d expect, low initiation fees, and reasonable monthly dues. For more information, call them at (219) 395-5200 or visit their website at www.sandcreek.com.

Highland Creek Golf Club – A Challenging Golf Course and Lots of Fun Après Golf

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Del Ratcliffe, Managing Partner and COO of Pinnacle Golf Properties in Charlotte, NC, has an interesting story to tell about one of the company’s managed properties, Highland Creek Golf Club. Del’s grandfather was a very prolific moonshiner/bootlegger back in the days just before prohibition and well into it. The success of his moonshining business allowed him to open a premier steakhouse in uptown Charlotte. Upstairs from the restaurant was a speak-easy with gambling operations. The location of his moonshining operation is now the 16th hole of Highland Creek GC and remnants of the original stills are still visible to this day.

Alcohol seems to be the common theme at Highland Creek! In addition to a fantastic and fun-to-play golf course, the club recently opened its new Beer Garden and Taproom. The Taproom offers scenic views of the golf course through large picture windows. You can watch and see which one of your friends decides to go for the 18th green and who hits it in the water. Odds are it’s the same person!

Enjoy your favorite drinks from the full-service bar or venture outside to the patio area where the real fun is! There’s a concession trailer where you can order wood-fired pizzas and choose from eight beers on tap. You can also order from the clubhouse menu which includes burgers, sandwiches, and salads for lunch and dinner. Weekends are the busiest with live music and comedy shows, and events like car shows, craft shows, and cornhole leagues. The beer trucks are open Thursday – Saturday from 4 – 8 PM.

Although the Beer Garden and Taproom bring people together for the weekend, the main focus here is the golf course. Since opening in 1993, this Clifton, Ezell, and Clifton design has been rated both the best and the toughest public golf course in the area. Not only is the layout challenging, but it also incorporates some of the most picturesque golf holes in Charlotte.

Highland Creek Golf Club was designed using a lot of the land’s natural topography to preserve the area’s natural beauty. The course winds its way through towering trees and meandering creeks, and the upscale community surrounding the golf course provides a scenic backdrop, yet it’s set back far enough that it never causes any obstructions. Lush, well-manicured Bermuda fairways lead to smooth, grainless A1/A4 Bentgrass greens that roll fast and true. With four sets of tees, Highland Creek can be played from 5,080 to 7,043 yards, making it enjoyable for all golfers, regardless of age or ability.

According to General Manager Mark McLauchlan, the course designers and owners faced a dilemma when building the 18th hole. As it is today, it’s a short, 452-yard par 5 that doglegs right over water.  Back then, a decision had to be made about either lengthening the hole to make it a legitimate par 5 or making it a game-breaking monster par 4. They decided to keep it a short par 5, hoping most players who scored well on the hole would leave with fond memories and return to play it again and again.

I found the best way to play this hole was to aim at the fairway bunkers on the left off the tee. With the slope of the fairway, balls tend to roll back to the right, and I found the middle of the fairway. I hit it well and was faced with the decision to go for the green in two or not. As I always tell my friends, “I didn’t come here to layup,” and hit a solid 5-iron that landed just short of the green and rolled up to within 8 feet. I was fortunate to make the eagle putt and now have a new favorite hole!

Highland Creek boasts some impressive practice facilities that include a full-length driving range, a chipping green, a practice bunker, and a 12,000-square-foot putting green. The clubhouse features a pro shop stocked with logoed gear from the game’s top apparel companies, men’s and ladies’ locker rooms, and The Taproom. Highland Creek Golf Club is a great place to host golf tournaments, outings, and events.

Highland Creek Golf Club is one of 11 clubs in the Carolinas managed by Pinnacle Golf Properties. PGP is highly regarded in the industry and specializes in every facet of course operations and facility management. They offer new clients realistic projections and objectives and have a passion for the game – and business – of golf. Their courses represent some of the best layouts in the Charlotte, NC area.

If you fell in love with the course like I did, you may want to consider becoming a member. Highland Creek offers membership programs that will meet the needs of both individuals and families without breaking the bank. There are no application or initiation fees, just low, manageable monthly dues. Contact the pro shop or visit their website www.highlandcreekgolfclub.com for more information.