After 30 years in business, the family-owned golf course in Lake Charles, La., has closed its doors, citing the high volume of golf courses in the area for its financial struggles. The golf course hosted a farewell tournament over the weekend, drawing the support of the community.
Pine Shadows Golf Course is shutting its doors after nearly 30 years in Lake Charles, La., the Lake Charles-based KPLC 7 News reported.
Community members were out saying their goodbyes over the weekend at a farewell tournament, KPLC reported.
“It’s heartwarming to hear everyone’s stories about how they grew up here and it’s where they first played golf,” General Manager Robin Courville said.
And for the family owners it’s not just a business, but three decades of memories.
“My dad has seven grand kids and they’re always out here hitting balls or fishing and things like that,” said Courville.
Courville noted that golf course density contributed to the property’s woes, with six golf courses within a 20-mile radius. But others said it’s a lack of support for family businesses in the area, KPLC reported.
“It’s not a casino course and it’s not a municipal course, those are able to get extra funding and stay afloat,” said owner Ronald Rider.
“It aggravates me that people continue to shop at the big stores or big companies and don’t pay enough attention to the people that are struggling on a day to day basis,” said Jimbo Pusson.
Pine Shadows employees stressed that they fought to keep the business going until the very end, KPLC reported.
“It’s a sad day not just for Pine Shadows or for the family, but for the surrounding area,” said Pusson.
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