by Brian Duthu
Pro Shops
Rounds year-to-date are now slightly behind prior year through May due to 1,627 fewer rounds played in the month of May. Rounds increased on all courses that are open, however, the increase was not enough to offset the 5,453 rounds played between Willowcreek and Willowbrook last year. For the year, Riverview has played 28,655 rounds, followed by Lakes West with 26,397 rounds, North 25,817 rounds and South 25,800 rounds. Year-to-date 54.6% of rounds played have been
played by holders of an annual golf pass.
With the heat of summer upon us, the desire to play and practice diminishes. We do have options that allow you stay on top of your game during times the sun is not as intense and the shadows are a little longer. We have an “After 5:00pm” pass, which allows you to play golf after the pro shops close. The “After 5:00pm” pass sells for $44 for cardholders and $12 for cardholders that are also Surcharge Fee pass holders. Additionally, Annual No-Fee pass holders are permitted to play after 5:00pm without the need to purchase an “After 5:00pm” pass. Ball machines are also available after 5:00pm, and can be accessed by Range Card holders. Range Cards can be purchased by Cardholders in amounts varying from $18 to $90. Range Cards also reduce the cost to practice, based on the dollar amount of the card. For example, the $90 card provides $115 worth of range balls.
Snack Shops
Snack shops are now closing at 1:00pm on a consistent basis, though will remain open longer depending on demand. After the snack shops close, snacks and beverages are available through the pro shop.
Courses
Mainline installation for Willowcreek is now complete and work has begun with the necessary connection to Willowbrook. Greens on holes 1–5 and holes 10–18 have been grassed and the green surrounds have been sodded. Installation of lateral lines on the front nine is complete through the 7th hole. Once the irrigation is complete the remaining greens will be grassed and the surrounds sodded. The project is still on track to meet the grassing deadline of the July 15. The landscaped areas on the back 9 are planted and the spreading of decomposed granite is nearly complete.
The second of our major agronomic practices, fairway aerification, will be finished on June 28-29 with work completed at the North Course. Beginning July 12 we begin the most disruptive practice, greens aerification, at Riverview Golf Course. Both aerification practices are designed to relieve compaction and provide airflow to the root system of both surfaces. Aerification will finish at the North Course on July 31.
Lawn Bowling/Grounds
Work continues on the Lakeview Lawn Bowl greens to remove irregularities in the surface. June 28-29, Turf Equipment Source will be on site to laser level our latest topdressing. The newly grassed Bell greens are filling in as expected and will be top-dressed and leveled throughout the summer.