The oldest public course in Waco, Texas closed after play on July 31 amid swirling rumors about potential buyers. Its long-time PGA pro expects a “lengthy financial transition” that could take “months to complete.”
The next step for the James Connally Golf Course, the oldest public course in Waco, Texas, is still in limbo, the Waco Tribune-Herald reported, after golf was played for the last time on the 180-acre property on July 31.
As rumors swirl, including one regarding a buyout by other local golf course owners, Connally’s PGA professional, Joel Williamson, told the Tribune-Herald that the course is still in a “lengthy financial transition.”
“There have been rumors the past few weeks, sure,” Williamson said. “But nothing too substantial. Since it was put up for sale on such short notice, it’s really hard to find a serious party this quickly. I wouldn’t be surprised if this takes months to complete.”
The course, which is owned by Texas State Technical College, announced it was officially closing in mid-July, the Tribune-Herald reported (http://clubandresortbusiness.com/2015/07/14/future-of-texas-alabama-university-golf-courses-uncertain/). But appraising the land has proved to be a tedious process.
“We put a ‘for sale’ sign out front, which has seen significant interest from a lot of different parties,” said Pat Grimm, the acting broker of sale for a local realtor. “But we do expect the appraisal figures to be finished within the next seven to ten days. That will definitely get the ball rolling.”
No matter the outcome, the course has seen a whirlwind of long-time customers blow through during the last 45 days, the Tribune-Herald reported, sharing stories and memories while teeing it up on the first hole just one last time. Williamson said he had the pleasure of meeting some of the course’s oldest patrons since the announcement.
“We have had guys come in here that played 40 years ago — the sentimental value isn’t lost,” he said. “This course served, and still serves the local community. Many of these guys refuse to believe they have teed it up for the last time out here, but are trying to play as much as they can with a ‘just in case’ attitude.”
All inventory of clothing, shoes and equipment have been sold from the clubhouse and the course has been heavily booked throughout June, the Tribune-Herald reported. If it is indeed the final closing of James Connally Golf Course, the last month has been memorable for an abundance of parties.
“I worked out here 35 years ago, helping put the sprinkler system in,” Williamson said. “As is the case with all these guys coming out here the past few weeks, it holds a very nostalgic place in my heart.”
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