2021 Golf Guide

Golf

GET ON COURSE 2021 SEASON

a look at

BLACK HILLS AREA COURSES

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE BLACK HILLS PIONEER

PAGE 2

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

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MAY 2021

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

MAY 2021

PAGE 3

SPEARFISH CANYON

GOLF CLUB enhances services

BY JASON GROSS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

S

pearfish Canyon Golf Club has served as the Northern Hills’ first 18-hole golf course since its expansion in 1988. This course includes a driving range on the property.

The entrance is on the turnoff into Spearfish Canyon, just off of Colorado Boulevard.

Ponderosa pine, oak, and Black Hills spruce trees surround the par-36 back nine which measures 3,224 yards off the longest tees.

The back nine opened shortly after the club was established in 1921. This was the front nine for many years but is now the back nine.

Golfers check in at the clubhouse and navigate a tunnel under Colorado Boulevard to reach the front nine. They will start here unless maintenance issues dictate otherwise.

Rolling hills and large greens are featured on the par36 front nine section. The total distance measures 3,529 yards from the longest tees.

Front-nine distances from the longest tees range from 187 yards on the par-3, second hole; to 564 yards off the par-5, third hole.

The par-36 back nine measures 3,224 yards from the longest tees. Distances from

the longest tees range from 132 yards off the par-3 second hole to 561 yards off the par-5 ninth hole.

Number 8 is regarded as the course’s signature hole because of the scenery.

This 183-yard, par-3 hole includes a prominent view of Spearfish Canyon.

Holes 1 through 6 on the back nine have changed from past years. Spearfish Canyon Golf Club General Manager Rob Kortan said four new greens were built, with two of the older greens still being used.

“Three of the new four greens are a little bit larger on average than what we had,” Kortan said. He added one of the new greens (on hole 3) is smaller than before.

Work on realigning the holes and the creation of the new driving range began right after Thanksgiving 2018.

This project was completed in 2020.

Kortan said the driving range has improved the functionality of the course. He added it is easier to control what is happening.

“The person who values the ability to practice would certainly think that would be

PIONEER PHOTOS BY DENNIS KNUCKLES a huge improvement,” Kortan said. He added those who simply play would place more importance on the new holes.

The full-length driving range spans 300-340 yards from the tees. Kortan said the tee box is roughly 200 feet wide, with industry standards calling for 10-12 feet per station.

What about the golfer who is deciding whether to try Spearfish Canyon Golf Course?

Kortan pointed to the 18-hole course as an asset and cited other factors.

“We have an excellent level of service,” Kortan said. “We treat our customers with gratitude and respect.

“Course conditions have drawn praise from many golfers,” Kortan said.

He added that practice ranges and greens are offered,

along with club fitting, lessons, and a fully stocked pro shop.

No special guidelines regarding the COVID-19 pandemic will be in place for this year.

Kortan said the course will follow the example of others in the industry.

“If there are customers who specifically want to ride by themselves or are not comfortable, we will accommodate those folks on a first-come, first-served basis as long as we can,” Kortan said.

Guest fees from Monday through Thursday during open-twilight hours are $74 for 18 holes with cart, $53 for 18 holes without cart, $41 for nine holes with cart, and $29 for nine holes without cart.

Twilight rates (beginning about three hours before dark) are $39 for 18 holes with cart, $27 for 18 holes without cart,

$39 for nine holes with cart, and $27 for nine holes without cart. All of the rates include tax.

Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and holiday guest rates during open-twilight hours are $79 for 18 holes with cart, $58 for 18 holes without cart, $43 for nine holes with cart, and $31 for nine holes without cart.

Twilight rates are $39 for 18 holes with cart, $27 for 18 holes without cart, $39 for nine holes with cart, and $27 for nine holes without cart. Tax is included in all rates.

Driving range fees are $4.50 for a warm-up basket (35-40 golf balls), $8 for a tune-up basket (70-80 balls), $15 for a practice basket (150 balls).

Call 717-4653 for more information. u

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

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NEWCASTLE

MAY 2021

COUNTRY CLUB offers golfing bargain

BY JASON GROSS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

N

ewcastle Country Club offers some of the lowest rates in the Black Hills along with reasonable cart rental rates, said board president Rick Dunford.

This nine-hole public course opened in 1966 and is a par 36.

“I wouldn’t say it’s difficult, but it is a challenge,” Dunford said when asked what he would say to encourage a golfer to try the course.

“We’ve got some long par 5s. You have really scenic holes off of tee boxes, things like that,” he added.

The course measures a total of 3,280 yards from the back tees and 2,824 yards from the front tees.

Number 1 is the longest on the course. This par 5 measures 542 yards from the back tee and 487 yards from the front tee.

The shortest hole immediately follows on number 2. Distances are 130 yards from the back tee and 107 yards from the front tee.

Numbers 4 and 5 are the “signature holes” from Dunford’s perspective.

The fourth hole boasts an elevated tee box. Distances are 415 yards from the back tee and 308 yards from the front tee. Dunford said big hitters must lay up because a new creek is there.

“It’s slightly upslope all the way,” Dunford said in describing the number 5 tee box. “A big hitter can make it look pretty simple, but it’s tree-lined

Golf

TIP !

GET FIT

FOR A BETTER GAME

on both sides.”

Number 5 measures 302 yards from the back tee and 267 yards from the front tee. Dunford said a gap in the trees where the ball flies may be less than 50 feet wide.

Men over age 70 may play from the gold tees on any hole, Dunford said. In the case of hole number 4, the tee box from that tee is not elevated.

What sets Newcastle Country Club apart from other area courses?

“We’ve got three creeks to cross,” Dunford said. “We have a lot of large cottonwoods, so it has a really nice, kind of older feel.”

One of those creeks was natural.

Drainage coming from Newcastle comes into a wetland area, and both of the newer creeks come from that.

A large driving range is offered, with clubs and carts also available for rent. Golfers may call for a tee time or sign up when arriving.

The clubhouse includes food and beverage service. Menu items include chicken fingers, salads, hamburgers, and Polish sausage.

One of the clubhouse rooms may be used for group meetings during the season.

The only clothing hard-and-fast dress code item includes soft-spiked golf shoes. Dunford said any clothing is acceptable.

“Sometimes he gets just off of work, and he makes it just in time for tee

I

f you’re struggling to keep up with the competition on the golf course, it’s a good idea to look at your fitness.

While working on your swing can do wonders, proper body condition will also play a role in controlling the ball and driving it further. To improve your game, focus on strengthening your core and flexibility.

Because a golf swing involves sudden blasts of exertions to one side of the body, muscle imbalances can lead to poor results and overuse injuries. In addition to a regular fitness plan, recreational golfers should also stick to a stretching routine to prevent damage.

Preparing your body for re-

time,” Dunford said in describing one of his golf partners. “He’s in Levi’s and changes into his golf shoes.

“He might change his shirt. That’s the way it is.”

Call the course at (307) 746-2639 for information on green fees, cart rentals, and other items. u COURTESY PHOTOS

peated swings will help maintain steady results throughout the nine- or 18-hole game.

Increase Your Swing Speed Strength and the perfect swinging stance go hand in hand. However, without working on both factors, your distance and control results will be limited. If you’re experiencing slices or hooks, consider working with an instructor to master the technique of driving the ball. This will help you understand how your body’s position impacts the downforce of a swing and how the ball travels.

Once you’re comfortable with swinging, work on strength and flexibility to increase your quickness when

bringing the club down and power without hurting yourself. Track your progress with swing-tracking apps that identify flawed stances and reveal swing speed.

Work on Control While the initial drive can make or break your performance on each hole, mastering control on the short game can help make up ground or sink a long-distance chip shot.

Understanding your body’s capabilities benefits your decision-making when translating your strength to the swing. Of course, dominating this part of the game requires practice to realize the relationship between your power and the club’s capabilities.

Improve Cardio Even if you spend most of your time on the golf course driving a cart, cardio is essential to teach your body to turn on and off when its performance is required. If you consider yourself out of shape, it’s a good idea to become active slowly.

Consider ditching the cart and walking the course to become accustomed to physical activity.

As you build your cardiovascular routine, pick up the pace by including jogging or running to your lifestyle. A quality fitness regimen will help you gain confidence, avoid fatigue and improve your overall well-being. u

MAY 2021

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

Come out and

PAGE 5

play

• Championship 18-hole golf course • Driving range • Short game facilities • Tournament outing packages available • Lessons with golf professional available • SDGA & SDHSAA Championship Venue • Fully stocked Pro Shop with brand name equipment & apparel • Full restaurant & bar

120 Spearfish Canyon Road, Spearfish, SD 57783 605-717-4653 • spearfishcanyongolf.com

PAGE 6

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

MAY 2021

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

MAY 2021

PAGE 7 COURTESY PHOTO

WALL COMMUNITY

GOLF COURSE feels inviting

BY JASON GROSS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

G

olfers 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.

The course is described as a typical nine-hole, small-town course. A clubhouse may be used for a variety of functions.

A pair of nice par 3s are part of the course, and they are described as achievable.

The course also offers a putting

green and driving range.

Plans call for opening on May 1, depending on the weather.

Some club rentals are available.

Cart rentals and dining facilities are offered.

The full-service dining facilities are open daily for lunch.

Tee times are not necessary.

However, golfers must check in before playing the course.

Course treasurer Stan Anderson said Men’s Day is scheduled for every Wednesday starting in mid-May and spanning through July.

“Our rates are inexpensive compared to the Black Hills,” Anderson said. “We

have very inexpensive membership if you live beyond 30 miles from Wall.”

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

“We ended up with a pretty good year last year,” Anderson said in describing a 2020 affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. He added no pandemic restrictions will be in place for 2021, and the hope is for a great 2021.

It is only about 50 miles from Rapid City, which means a nice drive on Interstate 90.

Call (605) 279-4653 for more information, including current rates for green fees, cart rentals, and anything else needed. u

The largest selection of new & used golf clubs in the area.

Quality used proline golf clubs to buy or trade

BUY - SELL - TRADE - CONSIGN

Sunday: 10am-5pm Monday-Friday: 9am-7pm Saturday: 9am-6pm

660 N. Lacrosse St., Rapid City, SD 605-341-7529 playitagainsportsrapidcity.com

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

PAGE 8

TO N E OP

MAY 2021

!

C I L B U P E H T

HIT YOUR SUMMER SWEET SPOT Come and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, green grass and friendly people at Belle Fourche Country Club!

Book tee times and check-in online at BelleFourcheCountryClub.com SUMMER WEEKEND RATES

9 HOLES 18 HOLES

Walking $27 Walking $39 With Cart $39 With Cart $59

BELLE FOURCHE COUNTRY CLUB

SUMMER WEEKDAY RATES

9 HOLES 18 HOLES

Walking $22 Walking $34 With Cart $34 With Cart $54

10941 SD Highway 34, Belle Fourche • (605) 892-3472 • BelleFourcheCountryClub.com

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

MAY 2021

BELLE FOURCHE T

PAGE 9

BY DENNIS KNUCKLES BLACK HILLS PIONEER

COUNTRY CLUB challenging but fun

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANDREW BEARS

he Belle Fourche Country Club challenges the advanced golfer, but is not impossible to play.

“People with higher handicaps, or beginners, can have a good time out on the course as well,” said Andrew Bears, the Belle Fourche Country Club general manager.

This nine-hole course spans 3,027 yards off the blue tees, and 2,554 yards off the red tees.

The Belle Fourche Country Club opened in 1935, and is a par 36.

Hole No. 7 is the longest hole, measuring 570 yards from the blue tee, and 385 yards from the red tee. It is one of two par-5s on the course, with hole No. 1 being the other par-5.

The “shortest hole” designation belongs to hole No. 5.

This par-3 hole measures 173 yards from the blue tee, and 133 yards from the red tee.

Bears said hole No. 2 was long regarded as the course’ signature hole.

He added the club is in the process of building a new green there.

“It’s a long par 3 (210 yards from the blue tee, and 135 yards from the red tee)) downhill to a green with great undulation,” Bears said.

Hole No. 2 will open for play on June 1.

Bears prefers the 303-yard par-4 sixth hole because the green resembles a Plateau.

Distances are 303 yards from the blue

tee, and 281 yards from the red tee.

“It falls off on three of the four sides, and it’s just a really fun green to hit golf shots into,” Bears said.

A spring special lasts through May 15.

Guest green fees are $25 for nine holes, with a cart, and $15 without a cart.

A fall special runs Oct. 1 through Nov. 30 and has the same rates.

Summer guest rates are in effect from May 15 through Sept. 30.

Those are $34 for nine-holes with a cart during the week, and $22 without a cart. Eighteen-hole rates are $54 with a cart during the week, and $32 without a cart. Weekend rates for 18 holes are $59 with cart, and $39 for 9 holes.

A driving range and putting green are available on the site.

The clubhouse offers a snack bar with beverages available. A fire pit and patio are available outside.

The club is planning several special days.

Monday, Couples’ Night play traditionally begins at 6 p.m. Memorial Day, with Ladies’ Night on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. starting around May 5.

An eight-week Junior Program will run Tuesdays from 7:30 a.m. to noon starting June 9.

Wednesdays will feature two Men’s Leagues. An 18-hole league begins at noon, followed by a nine-hole league starting at 5:30 p.m.

They are scheduled to begin on May 5. u

SUNDANCE

COUNTRY CLUB challenges golfers

COURTESY PHOTO

BY JASON GROSS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

T

he Sundance Country Club offers many challenges to golfers.

This nine-hole, par-35 course features 2,915 yards from the longest tees.

Distances range from 160 yards (par-3 third hole) to 450 yards (par-5 sixth hole).

“We’re in a beautiful setting here in the northern Black Hills,” board president Terry Wilkerson said. “As you play the course, you can see Sundance Mountain, Green Mountain, the entire

area for the Black Hills.”

This course may be walked and includes some elevation changes. It offers plenty of challenge for its length, which makes it great for golfers of all ability levels.

Wilkerson regards the 232-yard number 1 as the course’s signature hole. “It is a short par-4, but it’s a difficult hole,” he said.

“It’s surrounded by trees and sand traps,” Wilkerson added. “You have to

hit some pretty precise shots to get to the green.”

Greens fees are $20 for nine holes and $30 for 18 holes. Cart fees per seat are $20 for nine holes and $25 for 18 holes.

Specials include first-time singles memberships for $275 and first-time family membership for $325.

A special on Monday, Tuesday and Friday allows visitors to golf 18 holes.

Costs of $40 include cart rental.

The clubhouse includes a small pro shop including clothing, tees, golf balls, hats, gloves, ball markers, and other items.

Food offerings include hot dogs, hamburgers, and chips.

Men’s days are set for 1 p.m.

Wednesday, with 18 holes normally played. Ladies’ days are held each Thursday at 1 p.m. Meals are offered on both days.

The clubhouse was recently renovated.

Current course upgrades include new yardage markers. Longer-term renovations include new concrete cart paths.

Sundance Country Club is located on Highway 14 in Sundance, Wyo. For more information, call the clubhouse at (307) 283-1191 or Wilkerson at (307) 299-3001. u

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

PAGE 10

MAY 2021

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.

2021 SEASON RATES: All prices are subject to sales tax.

With this coupon

9 Holes - $30 • 18 Holes - $44 9 Hole Punch Card (10 punches per card) for $200.00

with cart rental required (per person)

Daily Green Fees: (Tee Times required)

605-578-2080 www.golftomahawk.com Membership Pricing on Website

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

(1) Per Customer. Not valid on Saturdays. Expires 2021 Season

21496 US HWY 385, DEADWOOD, SD 57732 | 605-578-2080 | WWW.GOLFTOMAHAWK.COM Golf Course Superintendent, Gary Outka • Manager/Head Pro, Bryan Guischer

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

MAY 2021

TOMAHAWK LAKE

COUNTRY CLUB celebrates 85 years

BY JASON GROSS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

T

omahawk Lake Country Club offers the most scenic golf courses in the Black Hills.

This fantastic nine-hole golf course is located seven miles south of Deadwood on highway 385.

“This is a big year for Tomahawk as we celebrate it’s 85th Birthday which we will be celebrating on Sunday, Aug. 1 with a four-person scramble starting at 2 p.m. with a shotgun start and is open to everyone who wants to come celebrate Tomahawk’s birthday.

Bryan Guischer, the general manager and head pro will be entering his 4th year at Tomahawk.

“We are super excited this year for Tomahawk,” said Guischer. First it is Tomahawk’s 85th birthday, and we couldn’t be prouder of what this great golf course has evolved into. Tomahawk is truly a destination golf course for people all over the United States.”

People come from all over to play Tomahawk because of it’s beauty, scenery and challenging holes. Once you leave the uphill par 5 you are in the woods and mountains for six of your holes where the views of the Black Hills are breathtaking and the final three holes coming back to the clubhouse will challenge you with long holes and little creeks that come into

play on every shot so accuracy is a must on the final holes.

“Once you get done with 9 holes I get a lot of people come in and say “ I have to go around again” so that is what we like to hear,” Guischer said.

Tomahawk takes pride in giving everyone a fantastic experience starting from the time you call for the tee time to walking through the door.

“Our members and guests come back each year mainly because of our staff and great atmosphere here at Tomahawk,” said Guischer. “It is a fun atmosphere to be around and their experience here is what keeps them coming back each year.”

Gary Outka is the grounds superintendent, and has been at Tomahawk since 2016.

“We are very lucky to have Gary as our superintendent. His passion for the course and it’s condition is his top priority along with keeping the course clean and also making sure everyone enjoys their round,” said Guischer. “Gary and his staff will be working hard this summer right away in redoing tee box on No. 7 for both men and women, so we are excited to start that project right away. Last year we were able to hit off a brand new tee box on hole 6 that turned out great and we are continuing to do projects on the

course like removing trees and other projects to make Tomahawk beautiful.”

New this year other than a brand new tee box on No. 7 will be the addition of 30 brand new golf carts. Tomahawk was fortunate last year in having a successful season to upgrade some of the carts that were almost 20-years-old so having brand new carts this year is going to add to the progress we are making at Tomahawk so we are super excited to having brand new carts.

Tomahawk offers single, family/couple memberships and corporate memberships as well as punch cards.

Tomahawk also offers a cart lease program for anyone who doesn’t have a cart but would like to lease one for the season.

Tomahawk’s green fees this year will be $40.00 for 9 Holes including cart and $64 for 18 holes which includes cart, and they also have a great driving range for you to practice on.

Inside the clubhouse you will find a great selection of clothing, pullovers, caps, gloves , shoes, clubs, balls and other

PAGE 11 accessories that you need. Along with a great pro shop we offer a full menu and bar which everyone loves to drink and eat their meals on our wonderful deck which overlooks hole No. 9 and the No. 1 tee box.

“Our menu can be seen on our website at golftomahawk.com. While you are on are website please feel free to look at all of the prices from green fees to memberships and everything else. While you are on the website take a look at all of the pictures of Tomahawk. The pictures don’t do it justice so you have to come see for yourself,” Guischer said. “I would encourage everyone to come to Tomahawk and help celebrate our 85th birthday this year, and hope that you have a fantastic experience that you can tell others and hopefully you will come back again.”

To book a tee time for Tomahawk or speak to Bryan Guischer, the head pro/ general manager, please call (605) 5782080. He would love to help set you up with tee times for your group or golf outing, or any answer any other questions you may have. u

COURTESY PHOTO

PRAIRIE RIDGE GOLF COURSE challenges golfers T

BY TIM POTTS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

he Prairie Ridge Golf Course is one of the more challenging golf courses in the area.

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 course is looking great and we want to invite you to come golf with us,” said Steve Cowley, Prairie Ridge Golf Course manager.

COURTESY PHOTO

The total distance measures 3,232 yards from the longest tees.

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

Hole No. 7 is considered to be the most challenging hole on the course, and can be played from 168 yards up to 231 yards, with most days being around 165.

Depending on wind direction, a person can hit anything from a wedge to a driver. 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, pro shop, cart rental, club rental, as well as putting and chipping greens.

Beverages and snacks are also available.

The Pro-Shop was moved from upstairs to downstairs to provide a new look with a better feel.

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

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.

Hours each day are 7 a.m. to dusk.

Intramural leagues tee off at 1 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, with a Tuesday two-person league starting at 5 p.m.

Prairie Ridge is located at 359 North Ellsworth Rd., in Box Elder and can be reached by calling the clubhouse at (605) 923-4999 for more information. u

PAGE 12

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

MAY 2021

Newcastle Country Club 9-hole golf course located in beautiful Newcastle, Wyoming. Updated landscape, greens rolling true!

BEST PRICED GREEN FEES IN THE BLACK HILLS! 2302 W Main St. • Newcastle, WY 82701 • 307-746-2639

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

MAY 2021

PAGE 13 PHOTOS COURTESY OF RUSS GROVER

BOULDER CANYON

COUNTRY CLUB welcomes golfers

W

inding its way through spectacular Boulder Canyon and surrounded by the towering pines of the Black Hills National Forest, Boulder Canyon Country Club is a championship 18-hole golf course open to the public and voted “Best of the Northern Hills” in 2020.

The Boulder Canyon Country Club course has provided a spectacular golfing experience to our local communities and golfers from around the world for more than 70 years.

This challenging 18-hole layout offers hundreds of feet of elevation change, remote hole locations, elevated tees, and broad sloping greens.

Play any one of Boulder Canyon Country Clubs teeing areas for a unique challenge. They present the golfer with decisions to make all around the course that reward the bold while offering the more cautious

Golf

TIP !

IMPROVE YOUR

PUTTING GAME

BY TIM POTTS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

player less risky alternatives.

Patrons can also enjoy Boulder Canyon Country Club’s practice facilities featuring a double-ended driving range, multiple targets, and practice greens with bunkers allowing for all types of short-game practice.

The back nine has continued to grow into one of the finest tests of golf in all of the Black Hills since its opening in 2018, and they have added a six foot wide concrete cart paths on the entire back nine for the 2021 season.

That being said, concrete paths are just the beginning.

Other course improvements that await our players this year will be improved drainage throughout the course, new sand in bunkers for improved playability, an enhanced green maintenance program to provide truer rolls and more receptive surfaces to approach shots, and many more small, If only you had the key to unlocking a more consistent putting game.

Can you imagine the confidence in knowing you were making perfect green reads every time you pulled the putter out of the bag?

A recent Golf Magazine study by Pinehurst Golf Academy found that golfers under-read putts more than 65 percent of the time. This means the slopes and angles of greens are giving fits to golfers across America.

What can you do about it?

Practice is a great start, but there also are many exercises you can do to make yourself a better green-reader and

but significant, cosmetic and functional enhancements.

If you’ve never played or just haven’t been to BCCC in a while, it should be on your must-play list this year.

Complementing Boulder Canyon Country Club’s golf course improvements, they now offer a newly remodeled golf shop, bar and grill, and driving range.

“I envision Boulder Canyon Country Club being the premier upscale public facility in the area. Boulder Canyon has immense potential to be the Black Hills one-stop golf destination. I see a place to get things like the latest equipment, an excellent meal, topnotch golf instruction, a challenging golf experience, and so much more,” said Gabe Dirksen, Boulder Canyon Country Club pro. “The staff will provide a social atmosphere that is second to none. I want members to feel

putt-striker. Once you incorporate the following suggestions into your strategy, put them to work during your next outing on the course.

Take Lessons —Check in with you local golf professional to schedule a few sessions on putting. During this instruction, you will likely learn about your stroke and receive a baseline assessment of your putting approach and alignment.

A golf pro may have ideas for you on changing your grip, posture, eye positioning and even overall mental state of mind. These refinements to your game can have a big impact on your overall

like family and non-members to feel at home.”

Coming in 2022, Boulder Canyon Country Club will proudly unveil its brand new $3 million clubhouse and restaurant.

Sitting majestically on the knoll overlooking 18 green, the new clubhouse and restaurant will provide breathtaking panoramic views of the golf course and Boulder Canyon, this destination restaurant and bar with wrap-around outdoor deck and walls of expansive glass providing the most spectacular views in the entire Black Hills that will be open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner year-round.

New private dining and meeting rooms, state-of-the-art, three-bay golf simulator offering weekly leagues and year-round play, fully stocked Pro Shop and members-only 19th hole. u

scores.

Relaxed Grip — The way you grip the putter is one of the most import- ant factors in control on the greens.

Golfers use different grips to achieve their putting goals, so it may take you a while to find what works best for you.

Remember that it is important to handle the putter equally with both hands.

This means avoiding having a dominant hand that can impact the trajectory of the ball and speed of the putter.

Relax your grip by loosening up not only your hands, but your shoulders and arms, too.

The Perfect Stance — Now

that your grip is relaxed, move yourself back- ward or forward until you have a perfect vertical position from your eye line to the ball.

Once you find an eye- ball combination that works for you, make a mental note of your positioning so you can make consistent putts.

Keep your feet comfortably apart at shoulder’s width.

Too narrow or wide of a stance can cause balance issues that make it hard to comfortably strike the ball with confidence. Keep your weight toward your toes rather than your heels for the most effective stroke. u

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

PAGE 14

MAY 2021

Walnlity

Commu

Golf e s r u o C

Annual

“Big One Tournament”

• Coming in July • Hole-in-one worth $100,000 • Pin prizes at every hole

Call for more info on special green fee rates.

Driving Range • Putting Green Rental Carts • Rental Clubs • Full Bar Snacks • Basket Food

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 9 7 605-2 525 5-5

or 605-68

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

MAY 2021

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

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BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

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Sundance Country Club Green Fees

Weekdays 9 Holes $20 • 18 Holes $30

Weekends & Holidays 9 Holes $22 • 18 Holes $33 Children 9 Holes $12 Except times in Junior Golfer Rules No Tee Times Required Carts - per person

9 Holes 20 • 18 Holes 25 Additional 9 holes - $10 $

$

Military Rate

9 Holes $15 • 18 Holes $25

Monday, Tuesday & Friday Special: All Day $40 Includes cart rental

East Edge of Sundance, Wyoming • 307-283-1191

MAY 2021

MAY 2021

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

CHIP SHOT GOLF

SIMULATOR Deadwood site offers unique golf experience

COURTESY PHOTO

BY JASON GROSS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

G

olfers wishing to replicate the experience of playing the most famous courses may visit Chip Shot Golf Lounge.

Travis Ranek is part owner of the business located at 306 Cliff St., in Deadwood.

The establishment features golf, puttputt, golf challenge games, food, and beverages in an indoor setting.

“I have over 100 PGA courses for every skill level,” Ranek said. “There are also different skill games. I even have putt-putt courses for those who aren’t ready for a full round of big golf yet.”

Ranek said the simulators enjoy PGA endorsement and are the Golf Channel’s official on-air simulator. One thing distinguishes the experience from many others.

“Where we separate from everybody else is 150 yards in,” Ranek said. “We have championed putting, and the shortiron game is stupendous.”

Business hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, but tee times may be made at any time. The phone number is (605) 3212613.

Hourly costs are $30 during the week and $40 on weekends.

The facility may accommodate groups of up to 15 people, according to Ranek.

Food offerings include pizza and custom buffet lines.

Clubs, golf balls, and gloves are available for rental. Fees for club rental are

$5 for nine holes and $10 for 18 holes.

Visitors are welcome to bring their own clubs.

Golf balls are specially marked for rotation. Ranek said that makes them 100% accurate.

Chip Shot Golf Lounge began in 2018.

A love of Deadwood led Ranek and his wife to launch the enterprise.

“We were trying to think of something other than gambling,” Ranek said, adding people may not necessarily want to engage in this activity for four straight days.

“I was just trying to give them something to do, an activity, something to entertain them away from the tables when they chose to do that,” Ranek said.

Ranek said the lounge is a mom-andpop shop that has grown nicely over the last few years. He added word of mouth is quite valuable.

Customers most seem to enjoy camaraderie and the realistic golf style, according to Ranek.

“Golf, at its foundation, is based on community,” he said.

The facility operates within CDC guidelines, Ranek said. He added hand sanitizer is available on site, and stands are disinfected between each use.

“We’ve been embraced; people are liking to do it,” Ranek said. “We’re just looking to grow that and be here to entertain people when they’re ready.”

PAGE 17

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

PAGE 18

COURTESY PHOTO

MAY 2021

LEAD COUNTRY CLUB golf course enjoys long history

BY JASON GROSS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

L

ead Country Club bills itself as “the highest course east of the Rockies” with an elevation of 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 Rd. Lead Country Club was built in 1922 and offers some of the region’s first class 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

Golf

TIP !

IT ALL STARTS WITH

THE DRIVE

BY JASON GROSS BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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.”

This course includes six par4s. Five are in excess of 400 yards.

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

The remodeled clubhouse is located in a building that was erected in 1923, and its exterior was renovated in 2016.

A locker room was renovated in 2018.

A full bar and remodeled banquet

G

olf drives are among the most intimidating yet rewarding shots on the course.

Many professionals, coaches, and players recommend using the driver on most par 5s and longer par 4s. They say yardage is the biggest reward, and accuracy poses the biggest risk.

“It’s just like Charlie Brown: you’re either the hero or the goat,” Tomahawk Golf Course instructor Mark Speirs said.

“If it is not hit squarely, it can be humiliating.”

Speirs said a lot of the risk comes from being self-conscious.

Lead Country Club manager Al Varland said limited loft on the club head means the ball is tougher to hit and control.

He added the mass of the club head means misses will be farther off.

room are also available.

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

Men’s Day is held every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to close.

Nine-hole rates are $35 per person with cart and $25 without cart. The 18-hole rates are $50 per person with cart and $35 without cart. Golfers receive $5 off rounds Monday through Friday.

Lead Country Club does not take tee times, but there is always room on the

“The risk is a hook or slice if you don’t have a lot of confidence,” Southern Hills Golf Course superintendent Jason Happe said.

Joe Shetler said a solid hit also makes for an easier club onto the green. “The risk is, a shot that is a bit off line will find its way into trouble,” added Shetler. His Sturgis Brown High School golf teams play at Boulder Canyon Country Club.

Many pros and others offered suggestions for getting better use from their driver.

Speirs suggests choking down 1 inch on the grip.

“Make sure the driver is the correct club; it goes back to the fitting process,” Spearfish Canyon Country Club pro Rob Kortan said. “Learn when to try hitting the driver. It has to do with course management.”

Elkhorn Ridge pro JR Hamblet said the main tips for

course. Groups of five are allowed on the course, but six-player groups are not.

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.”

Varland said the course is planning to open in mid-May. Rick Varland serves as the superintendent and greens keeper.

Call the course at 584-1852 for more information. u

improved driver usage are to focus on proper ball position, width of stance, and weight distribution when addressing the ball. He also advised golfers to not over-swing.

“Let the club head do the work,” Varland said about improved driver usage.

“Visualize the club hitting the ball.”

Happe and Shetler encourage golfers to practice a lot.

Shetler also believes in a golfer understanding their swing. “It prepares you and gives you confidence,” he said.

“Keep your eye on the ball,” Happe said. “My main advice is to enjoy yourself, because golf is more of a social event than a competitive sport.”

Some pros and coaches say golfers do not necessarily need to follow a routine before using a driver.

“Figure out the target, and

commit to your club choice,” Kortan said. “It has more to do with the mental aspect; you must be confident in your choice.”

Others believe in having a routine.

“For every shot, people who visualize it first have a big advantage,” Shetler said. “First, learn to hit at the target.

Second, learn to picture the desired shot.”

Hamblet said the routine a golfer uses should be precisely the same with each club.

“Visualize your target, and see the ball come off the club head on line,” Varland said.

Speirs recommends developing a routine on each shot from the putter to the driver. His routine includes standing and visualizing the shot, gripping the club, setting the stance, and making sure the alignment is proper. u

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

MAY 2021

PAGE 19

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DAILY GREEN FEES 9 HOLES 18 HOLES E1-E4 AUTHORIZED USERS GUEST

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(DOES NOT INCLUDE CART)

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E1-E4 $18.00 AUTHORIZED USERS $21.00 GUEST $25.00

SEASON PASSES E1-E4 $375 AUTHORIZED USERS $525 GUEST $650

BLACK HILLS PIONEER GOLF GUIDE

PAGE 20

MAY 2021

the ultimate 2021 black hills area

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PASS Only $99 per card! +tax

Each punch card is good for one 9-hole round of golf at each of these participating golf courses.

First 50 Passes Receive a FREE

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earfish 315 Seaton Cir., Sp 605.642.2761

Spearfish Canyon Golf Club

Walnlity Commu se Golf Cour

Wall Community Golf Course

Boulder Canyon Country Club

Newcastle Country Club

Lead Country Club 605-584-1852 • LEAD

Chip Shot Golf

605-321-2613 • DEADWOOD

Prairie Ridge Golf Course

Tomahawk Lake Country Club

Belle Fourche Country Club

605-717-4653 • SPEARFISH

605-279-4653 • WALL

605-347-5108 • STURGIS

Newcastle

Country Club

307-746-2639 • NEWCASTLE, WY

Sundance Country Club Sundance Country Club

307-283-1191 • SUNDANCE, WY

605-923-4999 • BOX ELDER

605-578-2080 • DEADWOOD

605-892-3472 • BELLE FOURCHE