Black Hills Golf Guide - 2014 by Ernie Wood

GOLF GUIDE Comprehensive course guide Top 18 holes in the Hills Mini-profiles of area courses Latest golf gadgets

2 | Sunday, April 27, 2014 RAPID CITY JOURNAL SPECIAL SECTION GOLF GUIDE

Journal file

With babbling Rapid Creek winding through Meadowbrook Golf Course, there are plenty of places to take in a scenic view.

Welcome to the 2014 Black Hills Golf Guide Use this guide to begin your Hills golf journey Journal staff

One thing is certain about golfers: they are passionate about their sport. Both the committed hard-core regulars and even the occasional weekend duffers in Western South Dakota share that zeal for the world’s greatest game. And what a forum they have in the Black Hills and across this vast region to ply their trade. With dozens of courses either in the Hills or within an hour or two drive from Rapid City, golfers here are blessed with a variety and vigor of courses unmatched in any part of the American West. Some courses are short, sporty nine-hole tracks that

w i n d t h ro u g h c ave r n o u s cathedrals of pines and ponds. Others are 18-hole grand tests that require every club in the bag and every shot in the repertoire to shoot a good score from typically uneven lies and undulating greens. Whatever course you choose, a fine time in the great outdoors is sure to follow. Journal file We at the Rapid City Jour- Elks has a mix of open fairways, mature trees, and holes made more nal hope you enjoy this 2014 difficult by Rapid Creek. Black Hills Golf Guide and keep this section around throughout the summer and fall to serve as a reference. This year, we’ve expanded our reach into Wyoming and ■ Which course to play? Check out these Nebraska. Good luck with mini-profiles of area courses Page 4 your game, and enjoy the Page 10 memorable moments that ■ The latest in golf gadgets arise in each and every round ■ Comprehensive course guide Page 12 of golf. — Bart Pfankuch, Journal ■ 18 of the toughest holes in the Hills Page 14 editor

Table of Contents

GOLF GUIDE

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Rapid City Elks Golf Course at the Elks Lodge #1187

Non members welcome every day except Wednesday. Fully Stocked Pro Shop, Club Fitting, Club Repair, Driving Range, Great Restaurant & Lounge Aaron Roeber, Golf Course Manager

18 Holes Non-members: $44.00 Members: $35.00 9 Holes Non-members: $29.00 Members: $24.00 Green Fees (After 2 p.m.) 18 Holes with cart Non-members: $47.00 Members: $37.00 Green Fees (After 5 p.m.) 9 Holes with cart after 5 p.m. Non-members: $32.00 Members: $27.00 No Twilight Rates on Wed. Hours: 6 a.m. to Dusk

• 18 Holes • Par 72 • Junior Program • Cart Rental • Lessons - All Levels We Specialize in Corporate Outings and Benefit Tournaments Relaxed Atmosphere Call for tee times that fit your schedule.

Ask how you can become a member

3333 E. 39th Street, Rapid City, SD Call to schedule your tee time

605-393-0522 or online at

www.rcelks.org

4 | Sunday, April 27, 2014 RAPID CITY JOURNAL SPECIAL SECTION GOLF GUIDE

Hmmmmm...where should I play golf today? The Black Hills and surrounding area has plenty of terrific courses Journal staff

When you boil it down, playing golf in much of Western South Dakota — or even in eastern Wyoming and northern Nebraska — really comes down to handling a pair of key course attributes: elevation and undulation. While courses in other parts of the country have lakes, bunkers or length as their main defenses, in the Black Hills the biggest thing that makes playing golf a challenge is the topography, which ranges from rolling to outright raucous. Golfers here know they must hit to certain spots on the fairway or greens to have a chance at a birdie or par. And that demand for accuracy, required course knowledge and incumbent skill set are what make golf here such a treat. Add in abundant wildlife, tall sweetsmelling pines, crisp mountain air and generally friendly folks, and you’ve got a recipe for a fine morning or afternoon. So, to whet your appetite for a taste of that great golf, and let you know which courses might tickle your fairway fancy, here are short profiles of courses across the region.

greens to make up for a relative lack of length. The greens are usually hard to hit and quick once you’ve reached them. Length off the tee is not a necessity on most of the holes but accuracy is as tree-lined fairways are sure to penalize even a slightly errant tee shot. A long-hitter can definitely shave a few strokes on the course’s par-5 holes, which are all reachable in two shots.

Elks Golf Course

This course on Rapid City’s south side is a tale of two 9-hole tracks. The old-school front nine is pretty flat and not overly long as it snakes its way around scenic Rapid Creek. Its mostly smallish greens require solid iron play, and mature trees can wreak havoc on loose shots. The back nine is more of a classic subdivision course, with tighter landing areas and far more elevation changes than

the front. Overall, a very play- course or you can easily end up able and interesting test of golf. in a ravine or rocky hillside. Secondly, keep your approach shots Fountain Springs Golf Club This fun 9-holer along the below the hole since most of the interstate in Rapid City is short ultra-quick greens have severe but demanding, requiring solid back-to-front slopes that make shot-making to find its small three-putts a certainty if rollgreens that are usually tucked ing them downhill. A scenic but up on mounds or guarded by testy track. Watch out for the creeks or ponds. Many holes many deer that populate the only require a fairway wood course. from the tee rather than driver, and wedges are a common tool to approach the greens. Veteran players speak of keeping your eyes open to other players since holes are parallel and errant shots common.

Golf Club at Red Rock

Two tips will help players succeed, or simply survive, at the “Red Rock,” an 18-hole Rapid City track known for its elevation changes and super vistas. First, control your tee ball on this winding up-and-down

RAPID CITY AREA Arrowhead Country Club

This private 18-hole club Journal file photos on Sheridan Lake Road relies on narrow fairways and tough Fountain Springs is a fun 9-hole course in northwest Rapid City.

Hart Ranch is a super scenic course off Highway 16.

Hart Ranch Golf Course

The super-scenic 18-hole track south of Rapid City off the road to Rushmore boasts some of the best views and variables in the area. Some holes are flat but tight; others require pinpoint accuracy off the tee; and the par-3 holes are all testy but attractive. A flatter front nine is followed by a backside nestled along a ridge of Ponderosa pine trees. Players will literally use every club in their bag here, and must take special care with the flatstick, since most greens undulate significantly.

LaCroix Links Golf Course

This executive course run by the local YMCA in south Rapid City is a great place to sharpen the short game, or to learn the »» PLAY, 6

GOLF GUIDE

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ARROWHEAD COUNTRY CLUB | PRIVATE GOLF COURSE

3674 Sheridan Lake Road Rapid City, SD 57702 605-342-6477 www.arrowheadccrc.com

FEATURES: 

   



FULL MEMBERSHIPS

  

DINING MEMBERSHIPS

SOCIAL MEMBERSHIPS

The Black Hill’s only Private Club 18 hole Golf Course Unlimited Driving Range Greens open year round Indoor/ Outdoor Tennis Facility Fitness Center Swimming Pool Full Service Clubhouse Fine and Casual

Arrowhead is proud to be one of the finest golf courses in Western South Dakota. Not only can you play 18 holes in 4 hours or less, most days you can get a tee time whenever it’s convenient for you. Arrowhead features fast greens that are open year round, and the course is challenging due to many undulations and doglegs, relatively small greens, bunkering, water hazards, and strategically placed trees. Arrowhead offers our golfing members unlimited practice facility privileges, bag storage service and many other amenities. Arrowhead has two PGA Professionals on staff that offer junior programs, private or group lessons. The Golf Shop can meet all your golfing needs with a vast selection of apparel, products and supplies. For Membership Information contact Connie Forstner at 605-342-6477 or connief@arrowheadrc.com.

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Play

on the wedge game. The course has seven par-3 holes that are all under 150 yards and a pair of par-4 holes that both play under 300 yards. The executive plays along Rapid Creek, which comes into play on four holes. This is a great course for youngsters and other players who are just learning the game.

game from the ground up. The track has eight par-3 holes and added its first par-4 hole in 2012. The home of the local First Tee program for youth golfers, the course is a perfect place to take a child to learn the game. Very affordable rates that rarely go above $10 make this one of NORTHERN HILLS the most accessible courses in Belle Fourche Country Club the region for beginners. Mature trees and tight fairMeadowbrook Golf Course ways make for a major chalThis municipal 18-holer on lenge at this public 9-hole Rapid’s west side is fair but track in Belle Fourche. At challenging to golfers of all skill around 3,000 yards, it isn’t levels. Flat in some areas, hilly long, but the track makes up for in others, the track features it with super scenery and what a mix of holes that require a the course says is the secondvariety of shots. With babbling hardest par-3 in the state: the Rapid Creek winding through 210-yard second hole. Affordthe course, there are plenty of able and fun, the course feaplaces to lose a ball but also take tures water on three holes and in a scenic view. Great for walk- challenges throughout. ing, this track is a great spot for a relaxing, not overly demand- Boulder Canyon Country Club This 9-hole track just south ing day on the links. of Sturgis boasts 3,430 yards Rapid City Municipal of lush golf in a classic Black Executive Course Hills setting of mature pines This 9-hole par-29 track and winding fairways. Driving will not test every club in a areas are fairly wide open, but player’s bag, but it’s a good way its small greens and numerous to get out and get some work in

Journal file

Boulder Canyon is a 9-hole course between Sturgis and Deadwood.

dogleg holes provide a challenge both from the tee and on the approaches. Its location just below a large hill make for scenic vistas; overall a sporty and fun Hills course.

Elkhorn Ridge Golf Club

Views of Centennial Valley abound on this 9-hole public track located in Spearfish. Situation on the side of the Black Hills, this track has numerous elevated tee boxes that provide impressive views of accessible fairways that are often protected by elk-footprint shaped bunkers. Large but sloping greens make a round fair but also challenging. Watch out for hidden canyons that can eat dubbed drives.

Lead Country Club

This public play course seven miles south of Lead boasts the highest elevation east of the Rockies at 6,200 feet, and also one of the best starting holes in the state. The first tee looks out over the entire course and valley below. With holes that cut through woodlands and tree-lined Photo courtesy Elkhorn Ridge Golf Course meadows, and small greens Elkhorn Ridge Golf Course in Spearfish has undulations common to that are extremely undulatmany Black Hills-area courses. ing back-to-front, the 9-hole

course may be only 3,331 yards but plays much tougher.

Newell Golf Club

Though mostly flat, wideopen and fairly straight, this 9-hole course west of Newell in Butte County is located along a large lake and wetlands that provide for some interesting holes and terrific views. Whipping winds are also a frequent factor on this public track that offers very affordable rates.

Spearfish Canyon Country Club

This public course in Spearfish is a study in contrasts as the front and back nines play differently. The front nine is a traditional layout with plenty of trees coming into play before reaching the smallish, humpbacked greens. The smaller greens, elevation changes and tree-lined fairways make for a definite challenge. The back nine is a little more modern in its set-up and plays longer than the front nine by nearly 400 yards, but errant tee shots will be penalized just the same. A true test. »» PLAY, 8

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Play The Golf Club at Devil’s Tower

Southern Hills Golf Course

scenic patch of land that is surrounded by hills and buttes and overlooks the town. With 3,465 yards to play with, the typically lush fairways are fairly wide open, allowing for big swings of the driver that are needed because several holes play long (No. 7 is 570 yards!) Traps and ponds are present to catch wayward shots. Well worth the drive south.

True Black Hills golf can be found at this 18-hole, par-70 track in Hot Springs. A favorite of many area players, this track is short but tight and each hole brings a unique driving and approach challenge. A 2011 “Golfweek’s Best” course, the track plays to only 5,905 yards but players who aren’t careful may never notice the lack of length as they navigate the ravines, rolling hills and Ponderosa pines that guard many holes. Truly a local gem that sticks in one’s memory.

This Hulett, Wyo., course provides not only views of its namesake 1,300-foot rock intrusion but also incredible challenges and treats for a golfer. With a blend of short and long holes — some open and some tight — this track boasts a memorable round from any tee box. At more than 7,100 yards from the tips, this can be a brute; though it can also play as a shot-maker’s course from the up tees. The scenery and the wind- Rocky Knolls Golf Course This 9-hole track in Custer ing nature of the course make it plays to 3,084 yards meanders worth the drive from Rapid. through mature Ponderosa Tomahawk Lake Pines with scenic views of the Country Club southern Black Hills. Accuracy The breathtaking views at off the tee is at a premium here this public 9-hole gem near since wayward drives will often Deadwood may distract golf- lead to chip-outs or blocked ers from the game itself. Cut approaches. Some holes sway through tall pines within the with the landscape, making for Black Hills National Forest, this a different round each time it is lush 3,390-yard tester has eleva- played. A few holes have greens tion changes so severe shots may tucked back into stands of pines. require two more or less clubs. A playable, entertaining track for A winding creek comes into all skill levels. play on four holes in this milehigh track whose holes are cut AROUND THE REGION through a dense forest. Legend has it a disgruntled golfer once Buffalo Golf Course chain-sawed a stand of trees, but If ever you find yourself in no worry: mature trees remain Buffalo, in Harding County in abundant. the far northwest corner of the state, you may want to give this unique track a try. The course SOUTHERN HILLS has a par of 32 and artificial grass Edgemont Golf Course greens, but it has no clubhouse Located south of Edgemont, to speak of and no phone or web this volunteer-run course oper- site. Payment is on the honor ates on the honor system and system. For less than $10, a only charges $5 or so per round. player can go all day. The course For that rate, no one could expect is located north of town near the perfection, and on that standard, airport. this public 9-hole delivers. It boasts all-grass greens, but not Indian Meadows Golf Course This North Platte, Neb. ninemuch in terms of fairway sod. Still, a few dogleg holes and a holer describes itself as a “parksmall creek winding through the land” design, probably due to the fact it is pretty flat and on course give it some character. the open prairie. Still, this fun,

Riverview Golf & Country Club

Journal file

Prairie Ridge is a 9-hole public course near Ellsworth Air Force Base.

One claim to fame of this Scottsbluff, Neb., 18-hole country club is being home to Nebraska’s only aqua-driving range. But the golf itself is what really stands out. Cutting through mature oaks, pines and cottonwood trees on a rolling landscape, this track is as scenic as it is tough. Water comes into play on four holes. A series of greenside bunkers requires accurate approach play on this par-70 track of 6,024 yards. Holes six through nine are well-known for being guarded by towering trees and requiring strong iron play.

highly playable course of 6,536 yards is no simple walk in the park. Golfers must navigate some dogleg holes, two-tier greens and a creek that winds through a woods. The signature hole is probably the short par-3 third, where a 161-yard shot must launch from a small nook in the trees, traverse a creek, Legends Buttes Golf Club This Crawford, Neb., course and find a home on a split-level green. The course wraps up with is nestled at the bottom of a large butte just west of town. A few two consecutive par-5 holes. of its nine holes wind around a Prairie Ridge Golf Course small lake and some cut through Located on Ellsworth Air stands of mature trees. Dogleg Force Base in Box Elder, this holes are common here, so wise public 9-hole track features club selection is rewarded. A fun several dogleg holes, a few track all around. green-side bunkers, a large lake and smallish greens that require Wall Golf Course A long but relatively wideaccuracy with the irons. With few trees, missing a fairway is open 9-hole course awaits golfoften forgiven. A very playable ers who venture east from Rapid course that allows golfers to City to Wall. This 9-hole course bomb away (no pun intended!) that plays to 3,800 yards features but which often takes the brunt few trees and only a handful of of local winds that can add dif- green-side bunkers, but several ficulty. Some solid par-3 holes doglegs and a steady breeze that add difficulty. Great rates and a round out the track. relatively easy go-round make Ridgeview Country Club this a course for players of all This 9-holer in Chadron, skill levels. Neb., is set on a relatively flat but

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GOLF GUIDE

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“SOLITUDE” defined • Affordably priced Regional and Corporate golf memberships now available • We host incredible fundraising events and corporate outings, call to schedule your special event • Non-members may experience The Golf Club through a Member Preview Package, call for details and pricing

75 Tower View Drive, Hulett, Wyoming • 307-467-5464• www.devilstowergolf.com

10 | Sunday, April 27, 2014 RAPID CITY JOURNAL SPECIAL SECTION GOLF GUIDE

Chillin’ on the course

The latest gadgets to keep you in style and, perhaps, improve your game

Golfers, from professionals to hackers, generally want to intended to make golfers feel and look like pros. improve their game. But at what cost? Every year a new line of From bionic golf gloves to the state-of-the-art putter analyzer, high-tech gadgets comes out with the intention of improving a here are a few of the latest gadgets that will at least make you look golfer’s game. cool, if not a little bit on the silly side. Well, at least that’s what they say. At the very least, many are — Richard Anderson, Journal staff

Bionic Golf Gloves

Oakley Thump Pro

The sun is beating down on a hot summer afternoon and your $9.99 sunglasses just aren’t doing the trick and your ear buds keep popping out after just about every shot. If they could just combine good sunglasses and music, it would be a perfect day. Wait no more. The Oakley Thump Pro is a combination of high-definition Oakley sunglasses and an MP3 player. It likely won’t help your game, but you will be styling on the course. To rock out, there are no wires to get tangled with ear buds built into the glasses. It will store up to 240 songs and it’s compatible with iTunes and Audible so you can even listen to your favorite audio books and podcasts. The retail price is listed from $249 to $299.

Golf Buddy

Most people would like to have a Golf Buddy to take out on the course. No, not your best friend from high school — the Golf Buddy Voice and Gold Buddy WT3. These GPS units, which are about the size of a half dollar, can be worn on your wrist like a watch or clipped to your belt. The Golf Buddy Voice will give you audio distance information, otherwise how far you hit the ball, as well as distances to the front, center and back of the green. Courses from around the world are pre-loaded with shot distance measurements. The WT3 watch also features hazard information, pin placement, GPS tracking and a digital scorecard, along with the same features of the Voice. They are both multilingual. The Golf Buddy Voice lists at $99.98, while the Golf Buddy WT3 watch lists at $169.98.

Even you can drive the ball like the Six Million Dollar Man with a new pair of Bionic Golf Gloves. These gloves feature relief padding that would even out the contact with the grip and help prevent your club from slipping and twisting in your hand. The web zone between the fingers should also cool your hands for a better fit. There’s also extra padding in the palm to eliminate discomfort. These gloves retail at $29.95.

The RadarGolf System

Again, like me, golf balls just seem to disappear at a regular pace. Who can afford buying new ones each time out? Instead, use a little radar to find some of your wilder shanks. The RadarGolf System has small sensors placed inside the USGA-conforming golf balls that allow you to find where your ball has landed. The retail price is $199. Not running out of golf balls is priceless.

Hinge Cup ball retriever

Maybe one of the most practical items for a golfer is also one of the least expensive gadgets. If you golf like me, it’s one that you will use the most. The Hinge Cup ball retriever is handy for getting that lost ball back from the pond or anywhere just out of reach. It measures three and a half feet and can extend up to nine feet. The retail price is just $13.99.

Solar-Powered Cooler

The sun is beating down and your beverage of choice won’t last more than a couple rounds. And darn, there’s no ice available. If only you had a solarpowered cooler. Made by Solar Cool Technologies, the solar-powered cooler is basically a portable mini-fridge that gives you quick and easy access to those cold ones. The cooler also includes a USB port to keep smartphones running. As long as there’s sunlight, it will stay cool. It’s not one of those average $4 styrofoam coolers you purchase at the local grocery store. You’ll be writing some zeroes on this check as the retail price is $1,200.

Adams Golf DIXX Blu putter

How many hours do you have to spend on the putting green to improve your game? The Adams Golf DIXX Blu putter will tell you what you are doing wrong and get you back out on the course in no time. The Dixx Blu is a combination analyzer and USGA regulation putter. It has the level finding line that turns red when the putter isn’t properly balanced and a digital screen on the top of the head gives you feedback on your stroke patch, impact and angle of the club head. Once you are done practicing and have things figured out, you can remove the screen and put the playing terminal back on as you hit the course. The retail price is $399.

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$73.00 $42.00

GOLF GUIDE

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All you need to know about cour Belle Fourche Reservoir

RAPID CITY

BELLE FOURCHE

W. Chica g o St.

Rushmore Plaza

E. N

W. Omaha St.

STURGIS

DEADWOOD

Canyon Lake Park

385

Rapid Ci Regional Ho

Mt.

Lacro Link

on cks

d. Blv

Dahl Arts Center

Dinosaur Park

Fifth St.

National Guard camp

R u s hmore Road

Bear Butte National Wildlife refuge and recreation area

SPEARFISH

Rushm

W. MainSt.

Sh erid an Lake Road

90 90

R 90

RAPID CITY

J P

CUSTER

SOUTH DAKOTA

WYOMING

Thunder Basin National Grassland

Jewel Cave National Monument

Custer State Park

89 385 Wind Cave National Park

U T N K

HOT SPRINGS

Buffalo Gap National Grassland

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rses in and around the Black Hills Black Hills Visitor Center

more Mall

Elk Vale Road

a Civic Center

North St.

Course/Address/Phone/Website/Holes

Arrowhead Country Club; 3675 Sheridan Lake Road, Rapid City; 605-342-6389; arrowheadccrc.com; 18

Meadowbrook Golf Course; 3625 Jackson Blvd, Rapid City; 605-3944191; golfatmeadowbrook.com; 18

Belle Fourche Country Club; Highway 85 & 34, Belle Fourche; 605-892-3472; www.bellefourchecountryclub.com; 9

Newcastle Country Club; 2302 West Main, Newcastle, Wyo.; 307-746-2639; None; 9

Boulder Canyon Country Club; 12312 US 14A, Sturgis; 605-347-5108; bouldercanyoncountryclub.com; 9

Newell Golf Club; 12963 Orman Road, Newell; 605-4562195; newellgolfclub.com; 9

A B C

ity ospital

oix ks

Course/Address/Phone/Website/Holes

Buffalo Golf Course; Highway 85, Buffalo; 605-375-3313; None; 9

Devils Tower Golf, Hulett, Wyo.; 307467-5773 devilstowergolf.com; 18

Elkhorn Ridge, 6845 St. Onge Road, Spearfish; 605-7224653; golfelkhorn.com; 9

Elks 1187 Golf Course, 3333 Jolly Lane, Rapid City; 605393-0522; rcelks.org/golf; 18

WALL

Fountain Springs Golf Course; 1750 Fountain Plaza Dr, Rapid City; 605-342-4653; fountainsprings.net; 9

240

Golf Club at Red Rock; 6520 Birkdale Drive, Rapid City; 605718-4710; golfclubatredrock.com; 18

240

Hart Ranch Golf Course; 23645 Clubhouse Dr, Rapid City; 605341-5703; hartranch.com; 18

O P

Prairie Ridge Golf Course; 239 N. Ellsworth Road, Box Elder; 605923-4999; ellsworthfss.com; 9

Rapid City Executive Golf Course; 200 12th St., Rapid City; 605-394-4124; None; 9

Ridgeview Country Club; 16611 Hwy 385, Chadron, Neb.; 308-432-4468; None; 9

Riverview Golf and Country Club, 100928 County Road 19, Scottsbluff, Neb.; 308-635-1555; none; 18

Rocky Knolls Golf Course; 12181 US 16, Custer; 605-673-4481; rockyknollsgolfcourse.com; 9

Southern Hills Golf Course; 1130 Clubhouse Dr, Hot Springs; 605745-6400; hotspringssdgolf.com; 18

Spearfish Canyon Country Club; 120 Spearfish Canyon, Spearfish; 605-7174653; spearfishcanyoncountryclub.com; 18

Tomahawk Country Club; 21496 US 385, Deadwood; 605-5782080; golftomahawk.com; 9

Indian Meadows Golf Course, 2746 West Walker Road, North Platte, Neb.; 308532-6955; www.golfindianmeadows.com; 9 LaCroix Links; 3820 Odde Drive, Rapid City; 605-394-5325; rcymca.org; 9

Lead Country Club; 21826 Hanna Road, Lead; 605-5841852; leadcountryclub.com; 9

M N

Legend Buttes G.C.; 3440 Hwy 20, Crawford, Neb.; 308-665-2431; None; 9

X Y

Wall Community Golf Course; 1801 Golf Course Road, Wall; 605-279-4653; None; 9

14 | Sunday, April 27, 2014 RAPID CITY JOURNAL SPECIAL SECTION GOLF GUIDE

18 of the toughest holes in the Hills

Rocky Knolls Golf Course in Custer is one of many area courses that feature mature pines that can complicate any shot. The par 5 No. 1 hole is one of the more challenging in the Black Hills.

Holes to challenge, delight and frustrate the Black Hills area golfer

Journal file

Padraic Duffy, Journal staff

Courses throughout the Black Hills are among the more challenging in the region. Here are 18 of the toughest, as assessed by the Rapid City Journal staff. These 18 are not the only holes that offer unique challenges, but these are sure to have you either pulling out your hair or pumping your fist. The holes are listed in no particular order. All distances noted are from the white tees. TURN THE PAGE >>>

Coming Soon! 2014 Rapid City Journal Golf lf Card C r

Ch Wat fOR ! ils Deta Elks E Golf Course Rapid R City, sD

Indian Meadows Golf Course North Platte, Ne

Legend Buttes Golf Course Crawford, Ne

Prairie Ridge Golf Course Box elder, sD

Ridgeview Country Club Chadron, Ne

Southern Hills Golf Course hot springs, sD Riverview Golf & Country Club scottsbluff, Ne

One small fee and you will golf free at these great regional courses.

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16 | Sunday, April 27, 2014 RAPID CITY JOURNAL SPECIAL SECTION GOLF GUIDE

18 of the toughest holes in the Hills HART RANCH

No. 12, Par 4; 400-470 yards

A frustrating 400-plus yarder with trouble both right and left, this bear of a hole plays tough from the tee all the way through to the green. The hole has a creek that runs along the right side of the fairway before cutting in front of the green and also has a large lake to the right. With the wind in your face, this hole plays almost like a par 5, which is how head pro Craig Hatch says higher handicappers should play it. “If they just didn’t let their ego get a hold of them on the first shot and just play it to be on the green in three and two-putt for a five and go to the next tee, you’d probably be able to maintain your emotional equilibrium a lot better for the day,” he said. Once you do get to the green, which resembling a three-leaf clover, you’ve still got some work to do. Threeputts from one area of the “clover” to another are hardly rare. Still, if you tame No. 12, Journal File don’t get too satisfied. The last six holes aren’t a whole lot Trees go gold throughout the Black Hills in the fall, adding even more scenery to already scenic golf courses. easier.

SPEARFISH CANYON COUNTRY CLUB No. 14, Par 4; 400 yards

No. 14 starts with a fairly intimidating tee shot that needs to be placed between a gap of oak trees into a narrow fairway. There’s out of bounds on the left and a lateral water hazard on the right that is a direct hazard where it crosses the fairway about 100 yards

from the green. Placement of the tee shot is vital. If you’re off to the left or right, a big number is a near certainty. If you put a tee ball in the fairway, you’ve got a good chance to hit a long, narrow green that can feature some treacherous hole locations. Because of the small landing area for the tee shot, the second shot will usually be

from somewhere between 175 and 200 yards, meaning that getting close to the hole isn’t going to be an everyday occurrence. If you get a par, run to the next tee box and be happy.

LEAD COUNTRY CLUB No. 3, Par 4; 400 yards

One of the region’s most vexing shots is right out of the

clubhouse off an artificial turf mat, but that’s just the beginning for golfers at the Lead Country Club, a beautiful little course played at over a mile of elevation. However, the best hole is No. 3, a 400-yard, par 4 that plays uphill to a small, wellprotected green. As with most holes, you want to be in the middle of the fairway, but a long patch of rough on the right means a drive that runs through the fairway will make things difficult. The sloped green, which is hard to hit simply because of its size, makes any putt from above the hole a test. Get dialed in, because you really want to be below this one.

ARROWHEAD COUNTRY CLUB No. 17, Par 3; 200 yards

The toughest hole at Arrowhead Country Club isn’t necessarily the longest one. Or even the hole that ranks as No. 1 in terms of handicap. It is No. 17, a 200-yard par 3 that plays even longer than that thanks to being deceptively uphill. The proof is in the pudding, or at least on the putting surface. The golfer who exhibits fine etiquette and helps others who don’t by fixing left behind ball marks won’t find many to repair up there. Much of No. 17’s difficulty stems from its deceptive length and the fact that there isn’t really a place to “miss.” The tendency is to come up short of the green, so take plenty of club. An uphill chip awaits if you’re short off the tee, while being long won’t hurt too much. Even if you think you got too much, the chances are your ball won’t be too much further than the back fringe. »» HOLES, 18

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The second green at the par 4 No. 2 hole at Elkhorn Ridge Golf Club is protected by a large bunker. The hole plays severely uphill to the challenging green.

Journal file

Holes ARROWHEAD COUNTRY CLUB

No. 6, Par 5; 460 yards

This par 5 certainly won’t overwhelm you with its distance, but it’s tight off the tee. Anything right is going to have to get fairly lucky not to be out of bounds, while a drive left will almost undoubtedly find tree trouble. A small creek about 250 yards out from the tee box makes for a tough decision on the tee. A big hitter will definitely have a birdie opportunity with a straight drive, while shorter hitters will have to play the hole as a conventional par 5 despite its lack of length.

The hole doglegs slightly right and your second and third shots will play uphill to an extremely difficult green that is protected by numerous bunkers. Once you manage to get on the green, don’t get too aggressive as the slope of this one from back to front can make you look silly. This hole is great because any score from 3 to 10 is in play.

BELLE FOURCHE COUNTRY CLUB

No. 2, Par 3; 200 yards

The downhill hole doesn’t play as long as the yardage would indicate, but it’s not necessarily the length of the hole that makes it so difficult – although it doesn’t hurt.

The first order of business on the second hole at Belle Fourche is committing to a shot. The distance can be a little hard to gauge as there is a good 45-50 feet of drop from tee to green. Once you’ve committed to a club selection, give it a rip to get there, but not too much because short is far better than long on this hole. The green on No. 2 isn’t large — about 40 by 40 feet — and there is danger in the form of a hazard just a couple of yards behind it. This is a green that can sometimes be hard to hit even on your second shot, so concentrate, take a deep breath and have some fun. You’ll be putting eventually.

BOULDER CANYON CC

No. 7, Par 5; 500 yards

The second shot is what makes No. 7 at Boulder Canyon Country Club so tough. Sure, as with any par 5 it doesn’t hurt a bit to crank that drive out there 300 yards, but the make-or-break swing is the second one. The 500-yard par 5 is a slightly uphill, dogleg left and the top-ranked hole in terms of handicap at the par36 nine-hole course on U.S. Highway 14A between Sturgis and Deadwood. Getting into position to hit the green with a second shot takes a pretty good wallop off the tee box. But don’t take »» HOLES, 20

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Holes too big of a swing or try to cut too much off the corner. A tee shot to the left will almost undoubtedly cause some headaches. There isn’t much in terms of trickiness when it comes to the green on No. 7, which is guarded by a single sand trap on the front right.

THE ELKS GOLF COURSE No. 8, Par 5; 475 yards

This hole can turn a solid front nine into a debacle in a hurry if you try to bite off more than you can chew. While No. 8 is the fifth toughest hole by handicap, water hazards and cottonwood trees make it a handful. Off the tee box, there’s water to the right and left and then more about 260 yards out. There’s also a grove of mature cottonwood trees that line the fairway, leaving little room for error if a shot isn’t placed perfectly. And even if you put a surgical strike into the fairway off the tee box, don’t be thinking you’ll reach this one in two. “Even though it’s a short hole for a par 5 yardage-wise, it pretty much requires three shots to get it up to the green,” Elks professional Aaron Roeber said. “Your first shot has to be a good enough shot that you have room to hit it to a good spot for your third shot.” So what’s the best way to approach the difficult hole? Roeber said he doesn’t get aggressive off the tee box. He hits a 4- or 5-iron but keeps it short in order to stay away from the water that cuts through the fairway, leaving him about 200 yards before laying up for his next shot. His second stroke is usually with a hybrid club or a 4-iron. Roeber said his ideal placement

is about 100 to 125 yards out front the green in order to avoid the second water hazard. Approaching the heavily bunkered, sloping green can also be a challenge, even with a wedge in your hands.

GOLF CLUB AT RED ROCK No. 14, Par 5; 468 yards to 603 yards

There are a lot of variables that factor into No. 14 at the Golf Club at Red Rock. The par 5 that’s 468 yards from the most forward tees has left quite a few feeling down. It’s a hole head pro Jason Young has heard many golfers call the toughest on the course and it’s easy to see why. It starts with not being able to see much of anything from the tee box. “You don’t see anything except the horizon,” Young said. “You don’t see the green. So that makes it very, very unnerving.” Some confidence is restored if one can clear the initial hill. Club selection is either driver or hybrid, Young said. The first stroke must carry roughly 230 yards to allow a better sightline for the second shot. If using a driver, Young said the green can be reached in two shots. But the second stroke will likely be another blind one from the bottom of the fairway. With a hybrid, it will likely take three strokes to reach the green. Young said a hybrid is usually the club choice for the second shot. Keeping the ball straight is important. Natural out of bounds line the fairway and there are several canyons that can come into play if a shot is offline. That’s what leads to a big number. Playing the hole perfectly can result in a birdie. Or it can go the other way, Young said, and you can end up with a “10 on the hole very easily.”

simply avoid all the trouble with playing the hole conventionally and rip a drive up the No. 3 fairNo. 1, Par 5; 402 yards way to the right and play to the Rocky Knolls Golf Course green from there. gets its name for a reason, and Once you’ve navigated the the challenges begin right from water and trees leading up to the first tee box. The short par 5 the green, you have to deal with sure doesn’t look all that scary a putting surface that is heavon the scorecard, but it requires ily bunkered and tough to hit, plenty of accuracy before a even with a wedge. The green is golfer has to deal with a chalslightly elevated, fairly narrow lenging green. An errant tee and crowned. Shots long won’t shot can lead to several tough hold as it slopes away and shots situations to get out of with a short rarely creep very far. second shot with trees lining the Like the rest of the par 5s on narrow fairway on both sides. this course, don’t get carried The joy of this hole is that an away. There’s nothing wrong eagle is definitely within reach, with par. but it also doesn’t take too much to be looking at a 10 or worse. There is a large bunker on the SOUTHERN HILLS GOLF COURSE right that can come into play No. 16, Par 4; 407 yards on a second shot. And trying to chip out of trouble can lead This par 4 is sneaky tough. to other problems with limited It starts with a blind tee room to land the shot. It’s one of shot over two huge humps in those holes that can seem really the fairway with a pond siteasy one day and have you pull- ting about 250 yards in front ing your hair out the next. of you that you can’t see from the tee box. Trees and out of bounds hug the right side of MEADOWBROOK the hole and unless you’re GOLF COURSE Bubba Watson, flying the pond No. 2, Par 5; 510 yards isn’t an option. So you have This hole combines length to lay up short of the pond, and precision in a tough, fair which will leave you about 170 package. As with any par 5, yards from a green that slopes staying out of trouble is a huge away. It doesn’t say so on the key off the tee. This hole has scorecard, but this is probably trouble in a creek that runs the toughest hole on one of the along the right side before best courses in the Hills. crossing the fairway about 160 yards from the green. There is SOUTHERN HILLS also a deep bunker on the right side of the fairway that eats up a GOLF COURSE No. 6, Par 5; 547 yards lot of tee shots. Long hitters can reach this This hole isn’t a terribly green in two, but it takes some long par 5 but it’s the prettiserious doing. A stand of cotest hole on one of the prettitonwood trees blocks off most est courses around. As with second shots from the fairway most par 5’s, the tee shot is unless you hit it as high and crucial. There’s nowhere to far as a pro, but there are ways miss right, which is where around them. A tee shot left can most right-handed high give you a nice angle into the green while some players will »» HOLES, 21

ROCKY KNOLLS GOLF COURSE

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GOLF GUIDE

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with on this course. As with most of the holes on this course, keep your drive in the fairway or you’re going handicappers are going to to be staring a big number in miss, but going left isn’t the face pretty quickly. exactly a bargain, either. Try not to be intimidated by The elevated tee box lookthe slope and the trouble that ing back down onto Hot presents itself with a canyon Springs is a great view. Take that intersects the fairway about your time and enjoy it for a second because you’re going to 100 yards in front of the green. The green is protected by a need a solid tee ball. large bunker in the front left.

tough because club selection PRAIRIE RIDGE GOLF is so difficult. The elevated COURSE tee box makes it play shorter No. 7, Par 3; 173 yards than it is and any kind of wind Prairie Ridge Golf Course’s means you almost have to par 3 seventh hole is 173 yards guess. to the center of the green, but To get a par, you basically when the wind is howling at have to hit the green because the Box Elder course, which it anything off of it is going to make for an almost impossible usually is, it sure seems a lot longer than that. up and down. Left, right or The uphill hole usually long is basically dead. Short plays into the wind and starts a leaves you with a severely uphill chip that almost comes challenging three-hole stretch. TOMAHAWK LAKE A creek protects the left side down to luck as you have no MEADOWBROOK GOLF of a green sloped front to back COUNTRY CLUB view of the green. COURSE and left to right, making a miss No. 6, Par 4; 320 yards Once on the putting surNo. 11, Par 4; 350 yards right a tough up and down. Named after Teddy Rooface, good luck. Depending The slope of the green also sevelt, an old friend of the on where the hole is cut, This hole’s yardage isn’t makes for some tricky putts if legendary Deadwood sheriff going to terrify anybody, but it you’re going to have a putt your tee shot doesn’t find the Seth Bullock, No. 6 is a short, that is either extremely fast or plays longer than it is. right spot below the hole. 320-yard par 4. The dogleg left goes uphill extremely slow as the green Because the hole plays uphill The hole presents itself as slopes heavily from left to and a fairway bunker at the and usually into the wind, trying a straightaway tee shot with a bend in the fairway discourright. chance to drive the green but There are certainly tougher to hit the tee shot harder than ages longer hitters from taking normal can lead to a big number. the chances of accomplishing holes on the course, but this a driver. A drive right makes this feat are slim. The green is hitting the green extremely one is pleasing to the eye and a A bogey four is usually not a bad score. Take it and move on. tiny, with severe penalties for lot of fun to tee off on. difficult because the second erring to the right or left. You shot is long and the green is could decide to play a shorter narrow. club off the tee with the idea of The right side of the getting it close on your second severely sloped putting surface shot. But if your second shot is protected by overhanging is not struck with precision cottonwood trees and bunkers, and backspin, success will be making any approach from too elusive. far right or through the fairThe green is protected by way extremely difficult. two greenside bunkers that are While you don’t want to go very tricky to negotiate. If you right, it’s better than left, as should happen to go long, good out of bounds will eat up any luck getting it up and down. drives too far that way. However, if you manage to Getting to the green is hit a phenomenal tee shot and difficult, but once on the putarrive on this green in one or ting surface your work has even in the regulation two, just begun. Anything above your chances of an eagle or the hole is going to be a huge birdie are quite good. challenge as the green is the toughest on the course. Par here is a great score. ELKHORN RIDGE GOLF Don’t complain about a bogey, 11519 Sturgis Rd. (Exit 48, I-90) COURSE either.

Holes

Black Hawk, SD

No. 2, Par 4; 359 yards

This dogleg left plays severely uphill to a tough green, making it a perfect example of the elevation changes you’ll have to deal

HART RANCH GOLF COURSE No. 16, Par 3; 122 yards

This short little hole is

1-888-400-2827 605-787-9111 M-F 8-5, Sat 8-12

Located in the Black Hills of South Dakota

22 | Sunday, April 27, 2014 RAPID CITY JOURNAL SPECIAL SECTION GOLF GUIDE

TEE OFF FROM THE MILE HIGH GOLF COURSE!! Historic Lead Country Club is the highest elevation golf course east of the Rockies.

The Original Black Hills Treasure

At approx. 6200 feet elevation, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so dress accordingly. Better yet, buy a logo sweatshirt in the Clubhouse, which is open daily from 7:00 a.m. until dark. The Clubhouse, built in 1923, features a full service Snack Bar, serving breakfast and lunch. Grab a six-pak of your favorite beverage to take with you on the course, coolers are provided. No carry on’s are allowed. Have a Class Reunion or a large group of golfers? The upstairs of the historic Clubhouse is available for rent and can easily accommodate large groups and a number of options are available. Check with the manager for availability and prices. While we don’t take tee times, if your group is more than a foursome, we recommend you call ahead. The longest wait on our busiest days is seldom more than 30 minutes, and during the week more than likely you will get right off. We are family and group friendly, fivesomes are allowed, and we have a good selection of club rentals, including a set of lefty’s.

For more information call

Open Golf Monday - Sunday May 1 - October 15 Men’s Day Wednesdays 1 pm - Dark Club Rentals Car Rentals Course Manager Al Varland Superintendent Rick Varland Rates: 9 Holes $30 per player with Cart

584-1852 or LeadCountryClub.com

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GOLF GUIDE

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For Tee Times, go to www.HotSpringsSDGolf.com Or call 605-745-6400 Hwy 18 By-Pass Hot Springs, SD

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