The North Branford, Conn. par-3 course, owned by the golfing village that is made up of a series of condos, is leased to an outside operator that plans on stepping away at the end of the year. A new lease arrangement is not yet lined up, but the ownership, and outside experts, think the course…
France’s “Compact Urban Courses” Attract New Golfers
The French versions of pitch-and-putt courses are being developed on small parcels of land in residential and commercial zones near major population centers, to attract more younger players and higher handicappers. The concept, credited with creating nearly 50,000 new golfers, gained further momentum from the country’s hosting of the Ryder Cup and a drive to…
Short Courses Gain Favor in Kansas City Area
Tom Watson, who developed his own game playing on the former Santa Fe Hills executive course in the city as a youth, says his new “Watson 9” in Maryville, Mo. is being “well-utilized,” especially by junior players. The Sykes/Lady Overland Park Golf Club par-3 has become “more popular recently,” reports General Manager Curt Nelson, thanks in part to a new unlimited-play-pass program.
The “Short Answer” to Golf’s Woes?
Offering players a chance to discover and enjoy the game with less difficulty, cost and time can provide more choices, fun—and play.
GolfAdvisor Lists Top 25 Short Courses
Ranked according to user reviews, a short course is defined by GolfAdvisor as 18-hole courses under 5,500 yards or nine-hole courses under 2,700 yards. Hideaway Country Club in Fort Myers, Fla., takes the list’s top spot, followed by Barn Hollow at Hawk’s View Golf Club in Lake Geneva, Wis., and Palm Beach (Fla.) Par 3.
Staying in the Game
Small-scale golf courses can appeal to a variety of golfers and attract the next generation to the game.
Notes Off the Cuff
It still holds true that winners still find ways to continue winning.