by Brian Duthu
Pro Shops
Total rounds increased in June slightly over prior year, with 15,530 golfers braving the summer heat. Year-to-date rounds remain well ahead of prior year and ahead of recent averages.
Once again this year we will be participating in Patriot Golf Day. Patriot Golf Day was organized, with the help of PGA of America, to raise funds for the Folds of Honor Foundation. The money raised is used to fund scholarships for spouses and children of military service men and women killed or disabled while serving our country. Starters will be collecting donations through the pro shops from August 29 through September 1. In addition to our normal fundraising efforts, we will be hosting a Skins game on August 29th, open to all golfers, proceeds from the event will be added to our fundraising efforts. The event will begin at 7:00 a.m. with a shotgun start.
Snack Shops
Snack Shop revenue benefitted from increased play, exceeding budgeted revenue by $2,400. Normal Snack Shop closing time remains at 1:00 p.m., however hours can be extended should the demand arise.
Courses
The bunker renovation at Quail Run is complete, in all 6 bunkers were removed, 5 were rebuilt and 1 new bunker was added. In addition to the bunker renovation some tee work was completed on holes 4 and 5, as well as some drainage work on hole 5. The overall plan was to increase playability in the bunkers. To date reviews by Quail golfers have been positive.
Aerification on all the courses went well (except Riverview which was not done this year) and have made great recovery this year. We are always looking for ways to minimize the impact that necessary agronomic practices have on course playability. Changes we made to our aerification process this year were designed with this in mind, including moving to one dual aerification.
As a reminder July and August are great months for growing grass. We make every effort to keep up with the growth, however any minor disruption to staff or equipment this time of year can lead to quick deterioration of cut quality and height.
The North renovation continues to move forward and is currently on schedule. The greens are undergoing their fertilization program and are responding as expected. Greens are currently being hand mowed two times per week. The mowing frequency will be increased in August to four times per week. Some areas of disturbance have been identified as needing additional sprigging. These areas are scheduled to be re-sprigged the week of August 4th.