by Brian Duthu
Pro Shops
November temperatures proved to be a double edge sword, the warmer temperatures increased rounds played, however the temperatures kept the Bermuda grass from fully going dormant. Total rounds played in November were the highest level since 2007, rounds played at the executive courses were the highest level since at least 2005. During the month of November 96% of rounds played were by residents, their guests or RCSC staff. For the year 292,235 rounds have been played throughout our 8 courses.
The North Pro Am was successful, with 99 residents joining 32 golf professionals from around the Valley and even Colorado. Residents played a 3 person scramble and had the option of using their professionals drive twice per nine holes. The amateur teams also had the option of using their professional’s score on a hole twice per nine holes. Many thanks to Chris Linam, Sue Presta and Janine Millette for their assistance organizing, securing donations and scoring the event. Proceeds from the event exceeded $2,000 and benefitted the Sun City Posse.
Snack Shops
Snack shops benefitted from increased play, exceeding budget by $8,100. Due to increasing costs beer prices will be increasing January 1, the new prices will be posted in each snack shop and bowling center.
Golf Courses
As stated above, warmer than normal temperatures posed problems for this year’s overseed, throughout the valley. The problems are most noticeable on the courses that seeded first, they include Willowcreek, Quail Run and North. These courses have re-seeded the weakest areas and some improvement has been made. Watering levels have returned to normal on these courses. To help prevent future issues we will be moving overseed to a beginning date in October. We ask any groups planning events in October or November, to pay close attention to the overseeding schedule when it is announced in January.
The Riverview Renovation project has started on time, with work beginning on hole #4 (previously #13). We continue to remind residents that the old back 9 is closed to all pedestrian and cart traffic. This is an active work site, for your safety we ask that you refrain from walking or driving through this area. For non-golfers the area we are referring to is West of Del Webb Boulevard. We are allowing fishing on the old front nine (the area east of Del Webb). We are hoping that the open fishing reduces the bass population on these lakes. The bass are natural competitors to the fish we stock for mosquito and algae control.