2015 Golf Guide

GET ON COURSE

GOLF 2015 Season | A Special Supplement to the Black Hills Pioneer

a look at Black Hills area GOLF COURSES

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

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May 2015

The 2015 ULTIMATE Black Hills Area

GOLF PASS

Get 10 Rounds of Golf for only $99 per card

Each punch card is good for one 9-hole round of golf at each of the 10 participating golf courses listed below for the 2015 season.

Executive Golf Course Elkhorn Ridge Golf Club

605-722-4653 • Spearfish

Executive Golf Course

605-394-4124 • Rapid City

Lead Country Club

605-584-1852 • Lead

Spearfish Canyon Country Club

Sourthern Hills Golf Course

605-745-6400 • Hot Springs

Spearfish Canyon Country Club

605-717-4653 • Spearfish

Tomahawk Lake Country Club

605-578-2080 • Deadwood

Meadowbrook Golf Course

Prairie Ridge Golf Course

605-394-4191 • Rapid City

605-923-4999 • Box Elder

Walnlity Commu se Golf Cour

LaCroix Links

Wall Community Golf Course

YMCA LaCroix Links

605-279-4653 • Wall

Hurry! Only 150 Passes Available!

605-718-9953 • Rapid City

Get yours at golfpass@bhpioneer.com or stop by our office at 315 Seaton Circle, Spearfish, SD • 605-642-2761 OR 7 S. Main, Lead, SD • 605-584-2303

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

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Elkhorn Ridge golf course to expand

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — The Elkhorn Ridge Golf Club is undergoing a nine-hole expansion set to open for play in July 2016.

Construction started in September 2014, with Wyss Associates designing the new portion of the course.

Jeremy Campos, the director of golf P.G.A. professional at Elkhorn Ridge said everything is right on schedule for that expansion.

Crews started the work by stripping off and stockpiling 200,000 cubic yards of topsoil.

Other steps in the process are placing the course’s irrigation; contouring the greens, tees, and sand traps; and seeding the course in anticipation of opening day.

“Everyone in the area is excited about it. It should benefit the second-largest city in western South Dakota,” Campos said.

The current nine-hole, par-36 course measures 3,655 yards off the longest tees and offers views of the Centennial Valley. Elkhorn Ridge Golf Club is located on St. Onge Road.

The initial nine holes, clubhouse, and practice facility were completed in 2009.

The addition of nine holes would help make the course competitive with other area golf courses, Campos said.

“With the new expansion of the new nine (holes), especially with the holes that can be built in the canyon, it’s going be up there with the Red Rocks and the Devils Tower type of golf courses, more of a modern design,” said Campos.

Campos said the expansion would benefit everybody.

“It’s going to provide the city with another option (to play golf) with the 18 holes, and it should increase revenue for the golf course,” Campos said.

Daryll Propp from Denver, Colo., owns the Elkhorn Ridge development and said now is the perfect time to expand to the full 18 holes.

“Our golf course rounds are up, golfers love the course, and it’s just time to complete the 18 holes as originally envisioned,” said Propp. “Now that we have full ownership of the property (recently transferred from the city of Spearfish), we are willing to invest in completing the championship layout.”

Patrick Wyss, golf course architect with Wyss Associates, Inc. of Rapid City, the course designers said once it is completed, the course would be 7,300 yards long from the back tees, with multiple tees to offer enjoyment and challenge for all levels of golfers.

“The parcels of land set aside for the back nine are simply spectacular. We have limestone canyons, running water, panoramic views and abundant vegetation to offer a remarkable setting for this golf course. The design integrates the existing dramatic landscape with each new golf hole,” Wyss said.

Wyss was the lead architect for the nine holes currently at Elkhorn Ridge. and he will help with the design of the back nine holes.

Campos said overseeing all operational facets of the golf coursewould pose the biggest challenge for him.

He added he most looks forward to seeing the back nine being built, having a great public area, and carrying on the customer service tradition the course has established.

Practice facilities at Elkhorn Ridge Country Club feature the region’s only double-ended driving range. Tee areas, target greens, and a greenside practice bunker are also included.

The clubhouse offers a full-service golf shop, plus food and beverage services.

The Elkhorn Ridge Country Club has many elevated tees with scenic views, like the tee box Call Elkhorn Ridge Country Club at on hole No. 5. Courtesy photo 722-4653 for more information.

The YMCA LaCroix Links Golf Course offers a short course Pioneer Staff Reports RAPID CITY — One of Rapid City’s shorter golf courses is the LaCroix Links, which measures 1,254 yards.

This nine-hole course is a par 28.

Number 2 is the longest hole at 270 yards, with number 4 having the shortest distance at 85 yards.

General Manager Randy Stanton said the YMCA-run course is wide open, with not a lot of trees. YMCA members play for free, and Stanton said non-members are also welcome to play.

Fees for non-YMCA members are $10 for adults, $7.50 for teenagers, and $6 for children under the age of 14.

Cart rentals are available.

No dining facilities are at the course,

but snacks are available. Stanton said the YMCA runs a summer food program for children through age 18.

Recent remodeling has included four sand traps, a new watering system, and all new tee boxes. This course opened in 1989.

Stanton said no tee times are required, and some club rentals are available.

The course also offers foot golf, where you play on a regulation golf course soccer style, using soccer balls playing to soccer ‘holes’ just like regular golf.

The course also sponsors a junior golf program.

The course is located at 3820 Odde Drive in Rapid City.

Call (605) 718-9953 for more information.

Hole No. 5 at the YMCA LaCroix Links Golf course offers views of other holes on this short golf course. Courtesy photo

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May 2015

Spearfish Canyon Country Club plans major changes

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

The Northern Black Hills provide a scenic backdrop to some holes at the Spearfish Canyon Country Club Golf. Courtesy photo

SPEARFISH —The planned changes at Spearfish Canyon Country Club is still a go, according to club professional Rob Kortan.

Kortan said starting dates for the changes have not been decided, and they depend on land disposition.

Some of the plans call for relocating the driving range so golfers do not need to cross Highway 14A to get there.

Proceeds from that disposition of two land areas would pay for the renovation.

Golfers must currently cross the road from the clubhouse to get to the range.

The range measures 225 yards from the tees to netting near the property line. Kortan said the range is downhill, which allows balls to travel further.

Golf balls wind up on Colorado Boulevard or bounce off the ambulance facility at the end of the range, Kortan said.

The new driving range would measure 270 to 300 yards, depending on tee location. Kortan said it would play significantly uphill.

Kortan said the club wants to be able to host state amateur events.

One of the requirements is a practice facility where golfers can use their drivers to warm up.

The range shift is only part of the preliminary plan.

“Along with relocation of the range, we get to make some very positive changes with regard to

how the course is currently laid out,” Kortan said of the Spearfish Canyon Country Club board.

Hole number 2 would be renovated. The fourth and fifth holes would be abandoned, with two new holes built in their places.

Kortan said the location of the current fifth green makes it hard to keep alive during winter.

Kortan said the new fourth hole would set east of its current site.

Hole 5 would be a variation of the current sixth hole. The new hole 6 will be a par 3.

Kortan stressed the plans are very preliminary, but five holes would remain virtually unchanged.

Those holes are 1, 3, 7, 8, and 9.

Holes 8 and 9 will receive new tee boxes, plans also call for rebuilding of the 10th and 16th tees this year. Kortan said those are some of the small details in the master plan’s first phase.

The board hired PhelpsAtkinson Golf Course Design three years ago and started looking at a long-range master plan.

Meeting with firms continue to take place, according to Kortan.

Kortan said the course has undergone some minor changes, including the addition of some bunkers and tee boxes.

Currently the Spearfish Canyon Country Club is the only 18 hole facility in the Northern Hills.

It has a fully stocked Pro Shop with brand name equipment and appaarel, and lessons are availabe with a golf professional.

For more information or to reserve a tee time call (605) 7174653.

Wall Community Golf Course has an inviting feel

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

WALL — Golfers seeking a relatively flat course will find what they are looking for at Wall Community Golf Course.

This nine-hole course was built in 2002. It measures 3,861 yards from the back tees and is a par 36. Some minor hills are also part of the layout.

“It’s a typical nine-hole, small-town course,” board member Stan Anderson said.

“It also has a nice clubhouse and deck that can be used for many different functions.”

Anderson said the course features a pair of nice par 3’s.

“They are achievable to get on, and it is a nice playing field,” he said.

The course also offers a putting green and

driving range. Some club rentals are available.

Cart rentals and dining facilities are offered. The full-service dining facilities are open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch.

Plans for later in the summer call for the facilities to be open for some Friday and Saturday suppers.

Daily rates are $25 plus tax for nine holes and include cart rental.

Tee times are not necessary. However, golfers must check in before playing the course.

The course is located at 1801 Golf Course Road in Wall.

“We’re only about 50 miles from Rapid City, which makes for a nice drive on I-90,” Anderson said.

Call (605) 279-4653 for more information.

The Wall Community Golf Course will hold its annual “Big One Tournament” in August, where golfers can earn $100,000 for a hole in one, plus win other prizes.

Courtesy photo

May 2015

swing

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

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get into the

of things!

• Driving range & practice facilities • Only 18 hole facility in the Northern Hills • Tournament outing packages available • Lessons with golf professional available • SDGA & SDHSAA Championship Venue • Fully stocked Pro Shop with brand name equipment & apparel

Spearfish Canyon Country Club Full Restaurant & Bar

120 Spearfish Canyon Rd., Spearfish, SD 57783 605-717-4653 • SpearfishCanyonCountryClub.com

premier Black Hills BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

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The

Destination

Elkhorn Ridge Golf Course is a regulation 9-Hole facility open to the golfing public. The course has a 285 ft. elevation change giving way to spectacular views of the historic Centennial Valley. Plans are underway for an additional 9 Holes.

In addition to a championship layout with an awesome Northern Black Hills backdrop, Elkhorn Ridge Golf Club offers upscale Practice Facilities. Along with large practice greens and bunkers, Elkhorn Ridge also hosts the regions only double-ended Driving Range, enabling customers to practice from both the east and west ends of the facility, allowing privacy and the luxury of practicing away from the rising and setting sun.

Golf:

9 Holes - $39 per person (+ tax) w/cart & water

All Day, Any Day

18 Holes - $69 per person (+ tax) w/cart & water

All Day, Every Day

REPLAY Rate - $30 per person (tax included) Completion of 9 Holes, Any Day

Twilight Rate - 9+ holes (+tax) Includes Cart & Water Varies: Ask for details, Any Day

Punch Cards:

(10) 9-Hole Punch Cards - $289

Fully transferable, does not include cart, expires at the end of 2014 season.

Unlimited Sgl. Adult Season Pass ........ $899 Spouse (Includes USGA Handicap Service) ............... $124 Each Child over age 12 ........................$89 25-Large Baskets (100+ Balls per Basket) Punch range Card .............................. $225 Effective 1-01-15

Driving Range:

Small basket (50 balls) - $6 Large Basket (100 balls) - $11 Tour basket (165 balls) - $15

All rates are plus tax except small, large & tour driving range baskets

Hours: 7am - Dusk Private, Semi-Private & Group Lessons available.

Directions: From Spearfish, I-90 East to Exit 17, south on US 85 .3 mi., then left on St. Onge Highway, North approximately 1 mi. Elkhorn Ridge Clubhouse on left just before I-90 Underpass

Jeremy Campos,

Head Golf pro.

GreG Brandriet

Golf Course superintendent

May 2015

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

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Walnlity

Commu

e s r u o C f l o G

9 Holes, ens, e r G s s a r G ays w r i a F d e r Wate

Green Fees:

9 holes with cart - $25 (+tax) 18 holes with cart - $45 (+tax) Annual

“Big One Tournament”

• Coming in August • Hole-in-one worth $100,000 • Lots of prizes Call for more info.

Driving Range • Practice Green Rental Carts • Rental Clubs • Full Bar Snacks • Basket Food • Evening Meals

Special hip s r e b m e M se o h t r o f s rate 30 n a h t e r o m . l l a W m o r miles f ails!

t Call for de

F L O G 605-279

1801 Golf Course Road, Wall, • 1 mile south, 1 mile west of Wall at Exit 110 415 5th Ave • Belle Fourche, SDSD • 605-723-2010

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BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

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May 2015

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Lead Country Club golf course has history Pioneer Staff Reports

The Lead Country Club Golf Course is the home course for the Lead-Deadwood Golddiggers boys’ golf team.

Courtesy photo

LEAD — Lead Country Club bills itself as “the highest course east of the Rockies” with an elevation of about 6,200 feet.

The nine-hole, par-36 course measures 3,331 yards off the longest tees and features small, receptive greens. It is located seven miles south of Lead on Highway 85 and off Rochford Road.

Lead Country Club was built in 1922 and offered some of the region’s first grass greens.

The course’s claim to fame is the first hole, which features an elevated tee. This tee box was rebuilt in 2009 after many years of being an artificial turf mat.

General Manager Al Varland said a golfer needs accuracy on this hole.

“All of the holes have small greens,” Varland said.

“The slope of the course makes all holes interesting.”

Improvements like elevated tees, permanent outdoor toilets, and paved parking lot have occurred over the past five years.

The club is currently remodeling the clubhouse, located in a building that was erected in 1923. Varland said that effort started upstairs in an old meeting room, and plans for this year call for renovating the exterior.

Golf cart rentals are available on the site, which also features a driving range. A small kitchen is located inside the clubhouse.

What would entice a golfer to give Lead Country Club a try?

“Our course is the oldest in the Black Hills,” Varland said. “It is also one of the Black Hills’ more challenging courses.”

Rick Varland serves as the superintendent and greens keeper.

Call the course at 584-1852 for more information.

Boulder Canyon Country Club provides canyon atmosphere

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

STURGIS — Boulder Canyon Country Club is a nine-hole, par-36 course nestled along Highway 14A between Sturgis and Deadwood.

The total distance from the longest tees measures 3,393 yards.

Board president Dana Limbo said the 542yard, par-5 third hole is the course’s most well known.

He described it as being a “risk-reward” hole.

“A golfer must hit over the water and trees on the second shot,” Limbo said in describing hole No. 3.

The course offers several drivable par 4’s.

Those par 4 distances range from 302 yards on number 5 to 486 yards on number 8.

All distances listed are from the longest tees.

Golfers must wear soft spikes or non-spiked shoes while on the course. Tee times are required for play. Manager Alyssa Anders said golfers may call that day for tee times if they wish.

“It’s a great place to play,” Limbo said in describing the course’s appeal. “It has a canyon atmosphere and is not surrounded by homes.”

Limbo said some holes are located on the side of a hill.

“When you stand, the ball is either above or below your feet,” he said.

Course improvements over the past couple of years include some new tee boxes and planting of numerous trees.

The clubhouse offers a full-service restaurant and bar; breakfast is served all day.

Hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

A driving range, three practice greens along with sand trap, cart rental, and club rental are available on the site.

Boulder Canyon Country Club offers a few special days each week.

The course is in the very early stages of a nine-hole expansion to the west. Some of the dirt work has been completed.

“We’re looking to hire a course architect,” Anders said. “We’re also waiting to hear from a sprinkler company to see if they can do the system.”

Anders said the back nine will be more water, with six of the nine holes expected to have some sort of water hazard, with one green an island green.

“It’s going to be a fun risk-reward deal, not overly long,” he said.

Anders said the addition of nine holes will give the golf course the opportunity to be a better course for the players, and in the future have room for growth.”

Anders said the hope is for the expansion to be open for the summer of 2016.

Call the course at (605)347-5108 for more information.

The Boulder Canyonn Country Club in Sturgis offers a canyon like atmosphere.

Courtesy photo

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Tomahawk Lake Country Club surrounded by beauty ByJason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

Tomahawk Lake Country Club provides golfers with picturesque views to help them better enjoy their golfing experience. Courtesy photo

LEAD/DEADWOOD — Tomahawk Lake Country Club offers scenery and history for golfers of all types.

The course is located seven miles south of Deadwood just off of Highway 385.

Open meadows and pine trees dominate the course, which sets about one mile above sea level in the Black Hills National Forest.

The nine-hole, par-36 course spans 3,390 yards off the longest tees.

The 320-yard, par-4 hole features an elevated tee box and small green.

A 10-acre practice area enables golfers to warm up before going on the course.

Board president Mark Speirs said the course would feature four new aspects this season.

“The course was re-seeded last fall, and that new seed is coming in. This is the first time for re-seeding the entire course,” Speirs said.

Another update is the introduction of the “Golf Now” reservation system. Speirs said this helps golfers sign up for tee times and would be especially beneficial for out-of-state residents.

“We also have a new bar for the restaurant area,” Speirs said. He added new golf balls are also available for the range.

The clubhouse features a bar, restaurant facilities, deck, and seating area. A pro shop provides merchandise, balls, and clubs. Cart storage and two private locker rooms are included. Tomahawk Country Club is the only nationally recognized historical golf course in South .akota Famed course designer Lawrence Hughes designed the Tomahawk course in 1936. He also designed numerous courses like the California-based La Quinta Country Club, but Tomahawk represented his first independent effort, along with architect Harry Rainville from St Onge.

The course may be reached by calling (605) 578-2080.

Rocky Knoll Golf Course Belle Fourche Country Club challenges golfers is an adventure

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

CUSTER — Rocky Knolls Golf Course, near Custer, is a nine-hole, par-32 course that spans 3,084 yards from the longest tees.

General manager and outside superintendent Steve Price regards number 1 as one of the course’s signature holes.

He said a golfer tees off into a landing, and the second shot is where the adventure begins.

“That second shot has to go through a narrow gap, and it can be very unforgiving,” said Price, who estimated that gap as 25 to 30 yards. This 417-yard hole is a par 5.

Number 8 also poses a major challenge, according to Price. He said a golfer must have a straight shot on this 184-yard, par 3, or things can be difficult. Price added it features a high tee and drops roughly 150 feet to a large green.

Price said the Black Hills scenery would entice golfers to try this course for a round, or a day. “The course was always there, and we chipped away what we didn’t need,” he explained.

Tee times may be made up to 14 days in advance. Golfers may see wildlife like deer, woodchucks, and wild turkeys.

Cart rental, bar and kitchen facilities, club rental, and a pro shop are available on site. Price said the pro shop and kitchen have undergone renovations in the recent past.

Price said Rocky Knolls is working on promotions to attract people who may wish to play after 6 p.m.

Rocky Knolls Golf Course is located 2/3 miles west of downtown Custer along Highway 16.

Call the course at (605) 673-4481 for more information.

BELLE FOURCHE — Golfers at Belle Fourche Country Club encounter a hole that is sure to challenge everyone who plays it.

The 210-yard par-3 second hole is regarded as the course’s signature hole.

Board of directors president Nate Bowman attributed that to a downhill shot, plus a small green.

Belle Fourche Country Club opened in 1935. The nine-hole course stretches 3,027 yards and is a par 36.

Fairways are narrow and lined with trees. The course features small greens and scattered bunkers.

Water hazards mark three of the holes.

A driving range and putting green are available, along with a restaurant and bar.

Bowman said an outside seating area was added near the clubhouse, and plans call for installing a patio this summer.

Other recent renovations include new tee boxes, sand traps, and grass bunkers.

Wally Kiewel has served as the course’s superintendent and head groundskeeper for more than 30 years,.

Belle Fourche High School teams use the course for practices and home events.

The course is on Highway 34, just west of that road’s intersection with Highway 85.

Call the course at (605) 892-3472 for more information.

Hole No. 9 offers elevated tees and trees around both sides of the fairway for golfers to navigate through.

Pioneer file photo

May 2015

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REGULAR GOLF 9 holes par 28

• Holes ranging from 85-265 yards • Includes 8 par three holes & 1 par four hole • 4 sand traps

Hours 7 am-dark Open 7 days/week April 1 to Oct. 30

COURSE OFFERS

GREEN FEES

• Riding Carts Available • Rental Clubs Available • Practice Putting Green & Chipping Area • No tee time required

• YMCA member adults $1 • YMCA member teens & youth FREE • Regular adult greens fee $10 • Regular teen greens fee $7.50 • Regular youth greens fee $6 • Senior rate $7.25

Youth Golf Program

May 2015

FOOTGOLF We also offer Footgolf!

• Playing a regulation golf course soccer style, using soccer balls playing to soccer “holes” just like regular golf • Plays to a par 40 • Footgolf participants will share the course with regular golfers

• The First Tee of Rapid City

3820 ODDE DRIVE (SOUTH RAPID CITY OFF MINNESOTA ST.) • 605-718-9953

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Designed by renowned golf course architect Lawrence Hughes in the mid 1930’s, Tomahawk Lake Country Club is a picturesque nine-hole, par 36 course located just seven miles south of Historic Deadwood, South Dakota.

From narrow fairways lined by tall pine trees to dramatic elevation changes from tee box to green, all 3,390 yards meanders through the Black Hills National Forest to provide a challenging course.

This clubhouse offers golfers a full service bar and restaurant plus a large deck to enjoy. Also a driving range and a putting and chipping practice green.

2015AllSEASON RATES: prices include sales tax.

With this coupon

9 Holes - $25 • 18 Holes - $36 9 Hole Punch Card (10 punches per card) for $208.00

with cart rental required

Daily Green Fees: (Tee Times required)

605-578-2080 www.golftomahawk.com

Membership Pricing on Website • Corporate Membership Available

21496 US HWY 385 , DEADWOOD, SD 57732

605-578-2080

Play 18 Holes for the price of 9 Holes Tomahawk Country Club Hwy 385 S, Deadwood, SD 57732 605-578-2080

Expires 2015 Season

WWW.GOLFTOMAHAWK.COM

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May 2015

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Southern Hills Golf Course extends to 18 holes Pioneer Staff Reports HOT SPRINGS — Hot Springs is home to Southern Hills Golf Course, one of the few 18-hole courses in the area.

Southern Hills Golf Course is a par-70 course measuring 5,905 yards off the longest tees. The course features many ravines and ponderosa pine trees.

Both nine-hole sides boast a par 35. The front nine spans 2,969 yards off the longest tees. The back nine covers 2,936 yards.

Golfers will likely see mule deer, wild turkey, and cottontail rabbits. A red fox has also made an occasional appearance.

General Manager Jason Happe said number 10 and number 11 are the course’s signature holes.

Number 10 is a 147-yard, par-3 hole featuring a water hazard between the tee box and green.

The 11th hole contains a ravine in front of the green. Number 11 measures 338 yards from the longest tees, and it is a par 4.

Happe said those holes stand out because of the scenery and challenge. He added the 10th hole also boasts a 75-foot elevation change, while number 11 has a narrow fairway.

Course personnel have added several trees to make numbers 9 and 17 more challenging, according to Happe.

Happe cited the playability and enjoyment factors as reasons to give the course a try.

He said this course is not as busy as others in the area.

Southern Hills Golf Course also offers club rentals, cart rentals, a snack bar, and new pro shop.

The course is located at 1130 Clubhouse Drive, just off Highway 18 in Hot Springs.

Call the course at 745-6400 for more information. The Southern Hills Golf Course in Hot Springs puts golfers in touch with nature. Courtesy photo

Prairie Ridge offers a challenge to golfers

Pioneer Staff Reports

RAPID CITY — The Prairie Ridge, Golf Course is one of the more challenging golf courses in the area.

Prairie Ridge Golf Course’s signature hole may make people think twice about adopting 7 as their lucky number.

Number 7 is considered the course’s “signature hole.” This 233-yard, par-3 hole requires a tee shot over a creek to reach the green.

“Depending on the wind speed, a person can play this short or long,” superintendent Jim Holec said of hole number 7.

The nine-hole course, located outside the gates at Ellsworth Air Force Base, features a par-36 layout for men and par-35 for women. The total distance measures 3,228 yards from the longest tees.

Water comes into play on five holes.

The course also boasts narrow fairways with solid landing areas.

Prairie Ridge offers a driving range, practice bunker, cart rental, club rental, as well as putting and chipping greens.

A pro shop and snack bar are in the clubhouse.

Jeff Mulz serves as the course’s golf professional during the summer.

With the course located next to Ellsworth Air Force Base, golfers may get a close up view of an Air Force aircraft in action.

“It’s like an air show some days with the B-1s flying over,” Holec said. “The course may not look challenging, but it is.”

The course requires players to wear a shirt and shoes, but the shoes may not have metal spikes.

Tee times are required two days in advance.

Prairie Ridge is located at 239 North Ellsworth Street in Box Elder.

Call the course at (605) 923-4999 for more information.

The Prairie Ridge Golf Course offers a fun golfing experience for family and friends. Courtesy photo

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May 2015

2015 Course Rates – Green Fees – REGULAR 18 Holes: $40.00 9 Holes: $25.00 JR/SR (17 & U/62+) 18 Holes: $36.00 9 Holes: $23.00

– Cart Rental – (per rider)

18 Holes: $16.00 9 Holes:$10.00 Adult Season Golf Passes*/Cart Rental start at $644.00 *All rates are tax inclusive

The clear local favorite, Rapid City’s Meadowbrook Golf Course is an 18 hole championship facility located at the foot of the beautiful Black Hills of SD, just 23 miles from Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

A David Gill design featuring a classic parkland-style course with cottonwood, spruce, pine & apple trees covering over 6,900 yards with Rapid Creek winding through the course and water coming into play on 9 holes.

3625 Jackson Blvd., Rapid City, SD

605-394-4191

golfatmeadowbrook.com

May 2015

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Meadowbrook Golf Course provides challenging holes Pioneer Staff Reports RAPID CITY — The Meadowbrook Golf Course in Rapid City is a local favorite.

The Meadowbrook Golf Course offers an 18 hole championship facility located in the heart of Rapid City.

The Meadowbrook course features 18 holes, spanning a total of 6,933 yards from the longest tees.

The David Gill Corporation of St. Charles, Ill., designed the layout in the mid-1970s.

It features a classic parkland-style course with cottonwood, spruce, pine and apple trees, with Rapid Creek winding through the course and water coming into play on nine holes.

The course also features more than 60 bunkers, that occupy a total area of 55,000 square feet.

Par on this course is 72.

Golf pro Matt Kimball considers hole No. 9 as Meadowbrook’s “signature hole.”

He said the three-shot par, 5 double doglegs around large cottonwood trees.

“Golfers must cross Rapid Creek twice en route to the green,” said Kimball, who provides golf instruction by appointment.

Meadowbrook superintendent JJ Walraven regards number 18 as another signature hole.

“This par 5 is the finishing hole, and the creek is on

the right side,” he said. “It is 10 or 15 yards from the fairway.”

A full-service pro shop is available at the clubhouse, along with snack bar and grill facilities.

A driving range and two practice greens are also at the course.

Golf cart rentals are available, and people may store their carts on site.

Walraven said Meadowbrook is ranked as the state’s number 3 golf course.

“It’s easy to walk and doesn’t have any big hills,” he added. “It has a park-like atmosphere, is in the heart of Rapid City, and easy to get to.”

Changes for the near future include a new restaurant vendor, a new fleet of EZ-Go golf carts, and use of a Starter Shack that has not been used in five years.

Kimball said those changes would result in improved customer service.

South Dakota has hosted only two United States Golf Association events Meadowbrook Golf Course in Rapid City sponsored one, the USGA Women’s Public Links Championships in 1984.

Meadowbrook was also honored to host the 2009 and 2010 NAIA College Women’s National Golf Championships.

The course is at 3625 Jackson Blvd, in Rapid City.

Call the course at (605) 3944191 for more information.

Meadowbrook Golf Course in Rapid City presents more than 60 bunkers that golfers have to navigate around. Courtesy photo

Hart Ranch host to championship events Pioneer Staff Reports

Hart Ranch in Rapid City offers wavy big greens to make putting a challenge for golfers.

Courtesy photo

RAPID CITY — Hart Ranch Golf Course has hosted many South Dakota State Championship events since becoming an 18-hole course in 1995.

This course located south of Rapid City boasts a par-72 layout spanning 6,841 yards off the longest of tees. One-half of the course rests along a ridge, and the rest is out in the open.

The front nine is a par 36 that measures 3,361 yards off the longest tees. The back nine spans 3,480 yards off the longest tees and is also a par 36.

Head professional Craig Hatch said the first five holes give golfers a lot of room.

Trees create a smaller margin for error starting on number 6.

“We say you can take five holes to warm up,” Hatch said. “Then, you need to start paying attention.”

Assistant pro Dustin Lecy offers lessons along with Hatch.

Hatch said the back nine in general serves as Hart Ranch’s signature holes.

“The course gets harder as you go along,” Hatch in in describing the back nine. “Holes 12 through 18 offer a combination of length of holes.” Hatch said that Spring Creek winds through the grounds.

Hart Ranch is close to Rapid City, but Hatch said the environment is like leaving town. “It’s really quiet here,” he said.

Club rentals and cart rentals are available at Hart Ranch.

The course boasts one of the Black Hills’ largest driving ranges, along with putting greens, chipping greens, and practice bunkers.

Hart Ranch also contains a snack bar, plus an outdoor grill for the weekends.

The facility also offers the Professional Golfers Association Family Course program, which uses a beginner-friendly short course.

Hart Ranch Golf Course is located at 23645 Clubhouse Drive in the Rapid City area.

Call the course at 341-5703 for more information.

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Executive Golf Course offers something for everyone Pioneer Staff Reports

RAPID CITY — The Executive Golf Course in Rapid City offers a course that is designed to accommodate every level of player from beginner to single digit handicappers.

Jeff Richardt. the courses clubhouse manager, said The Executive Golf Course is a nine hole facility with seven par threes and two par fours, and is ideal for walkers.

The course is situated amongst giant cottonwoods with Rapid Creek running along two of the nine holes.

Richardt said the hardest holes are hole No. 4 and hole No. 9.

“As far as the par 3’s go I’d say hole no. 4 is the toughest. It has a sloped green,” said Richardt. “Hole No. 9 is only 79 yards and has a sloped green, but rapid Creek goes through the middle of the hole and it kind of guards the hole.

“There’s probably more balls that go in Rapid Creek than any other hole.”

The Executive Golf Course doesn’t have a driving range, but does have a small putting and chipping green.

“It’s a good course to come

work on your iron play,” Richardt said.

The Executive Golf Course is an excellent opportunity for any level of player to hone their iron game as well as be able to enjoy the convenience of its location to downtown Rapid City and the Black Hills.

Club rentals and snack bar are available.

The Executive Golf Course is centrally located near downtown Rapid City at 200 Founders Park Drive.

Call the course at (605) 394-4124 for more information.

Rapid Creek makes Hole No. 9 a challenging hole for golfers at the Executive Golf Course in Rapid City. Courtesy photo

Proper etiquette on the golf course

By Dennis Knuckles Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — When you first start playing golf you want to make sure you do things the right way.

Golf is more than driving, chipping, and putting. It’s about doing things the right way so the experience can be fun for you and the other golfers around you.

Here are some tips on how to make your golfing experience more enjoyable.

Be sure to be patient and respect other players on the course as you wish to be respected.

You shouldn’t shout or talk loudly while play is in progress.

It’s ok to speak normally, but shouting or loud laughing is not acceptable.

Be prepared to tee-off at your scheduled time.

Remember you are not he only one on the golf course.

Others are waiting to play too, so be punctual.

Always check your marker and your ball number in order to avoid confusion. Doing this can possibly save you some strokes during the game.

Be sure not to stand too close behind a player getting ready to hit the ball, and do not stand next to or in front of the player hitting the ball.

It is important to remain quiet while another golfer is preparing to strike his ball.

Starting a round, the player with the lowest handicap has the right to start the game by teeing off first.

On all other tees the player with the best score out of the previous hole has gets to play his ball first.

Always be prepared to play your ball in order to avoid any delay in the game.

There may be a group behind you, so keep delays to a minimum and keep the game going at a good pace.

While walking to your ball, try to consider how to play it best.

Try and observe the balls of the other players in your flight.

This will help to save time in case one of your partners may not be able to find his ball immediately after his shot.

If you are having trouble finding the ball, invite the next group to play through before continuing your search.

You should repair any damage caused by your spikes, pitch marks immediately after your shot.

Replace divots and step it into place.

After any bunker play be sure to use the rake and leave the bunker in perfect condition.

When driving your golf cart, stay on the designed paths.

Don’t drive your cart over teeoff areas, greens or through sand bunkers.

When on the green, the ball that is the longest distance from the hole has to be played first.

Stepping on putting lines of your flight partners is a no-no.

Mark your ball as soon as it lies on the green.

When holding the flagstick, don’t stand too close to the hole. Watch for any shadow your body may produce in the sun because this may interfere other players in their game.

You should not move or speak as long as someone is playing his or her ball.

Don’t pull the ball out of the hole with your putter as this may damage the hole. Bend down and pick it up.

After the last putt has been made, replace flagstick carefully to make sure you do not damage the hole.

Leave the green as soon as possible.

Yu can note your score while waiting to tee-off on The next tee.

Follow these steps won’t help your swing or your putting stroke, but it will make the golfing experience more fun for you and the other golfers on the course.

May 2015

Fountain Springs, and The Elks offer golfers a choice Fountain Springs Golf Club Fountain Springs Golf Club in Rapid City is one of the area’s shorter courses.

The 9-hole Fountain Springs course features 2,880 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 35.

The course rating is 33.8 with a slope rating of 128.

Fountain Springs is a daily fee golf course with a “open to public” guest policy.

The course was designed by Mark Simpson, the Fountain Springs golf course opened in 1993.

Fountain Springs is located at 1750 Fountain Plaza Drive in Rapid City.

Call the course at (605) 342-4653 for more information.

Elks Golf Course The Elks Golf Course offers lots of variety and challenge for golfers of all experience levels.

The 18-hole, par-71 course measures 5,909 yards off the longest tees.

Creek-side vistas dominate the front nine.

Golfers may see wildlife including ducks, deer, geese, and the occasional wild turkey or mink.

Elevated tees are featured on the back nine, which also allows chances for birds to nest. Views of prairie lands and the Badlands dominate the scenery.

A pro shop offers the newest merchandise.

Golf professionals offer lessons; club-fitting services are also available.

The course also offers a full-service bar and dining room. A driving range, rental carts, and rental clubs are offered.

Golfers may not wear metal spikes on the course.

The Elks course is located at 3333 East 39th Street in Rapid City. Call (605) 393-0522 for more information.

Tips on picking out the right club Pioneer Staff Reports Playing golf can be fun and frustrating at the same time.

Here are some tips on how to buy equipment to get you started playing golf.

A lot of people think if you want to play good golf you have to go out and buy a brand new set of shiny and expensive golf clubs.

Sure they look nice, but you need to find the clubs that suit you best.

The clubs largely depend on the golfer.

“If you’re a beginner or intermediate player, any set of clubs will work,” Lead Country Club golf manager and club pro Al Varland said. “Don’t get into different types of clubs until you have a semblance of skill.”

Varland and other club professionals recommend going to a local pro for club fittings. Elkhorn Ridge Golf Club PGA professional and golf director said fitters look for lie, length, and shaft flex.

Spearfish Canyon Country Club operations director and head professional Rob Kortan said, “We take static measurements and have a monitor to watch you hit.”

Matt Kimball is the club pro at Rapid City’s Meadowbrook course. “The trick is to get equipment that fits you,” he said.

May 2015

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

Executive Golf Course Centrally located near downtown Rapid City, a 29 Par course is designed to accommodate every level of player from beginner to single digit handicappers.

Daily Fees: 9 Holes - $10.00 9 Holes Jr - $5.00 9 Holes Twilight - $8.00 Play All Day For $15.00 Season Passes and Cart Rental also available.

200 12th St., Rapid City • 605.394.4124

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May 2015