FUN ‘FORE’ ALL

From the crisp green grass beneath one’s shoes to the still-cool morning air under a brilliant blue sky, there’s something pretty special about stepping out on Pottawatomie Golf Course in St. Charles. The course is like a small to-do list, with each hole presenting obstacles that are checked off before scooping up the ball and walking to the next hole. For those seeking a challenge, there’s the opportunity to best one’s score from the previous visit, or perhaps beat out an opponent in a friendly competition. The course is just long enough to enjoy the walk, and take time to catch up on life with your fellow players in between putts and swings. As assistant golf manager for the St. Charles Park District’s course, Bill Ogiego sees every day how players come together from all walks of life for the opportunity to spend time together and enjoy the game. “Where else can you go for some recreation with the people you have fun spending time with, while getting in your steps for the day and enjoying the beautiful surroundings?” Ogiego says. While the game is central, it’s just a part of the experience, he explains. “When we talk about ‘going golfing’ at Pottawatomie, we talk about four things: camaraderie, exercise, beautiful scenery and then the game of golf,” Ogiego says. Located in Pottawatomie Park, the 9-hole course is nestled along the Fox River, creating a beautiful setting. The course is a certified Audubon Sanctuary, where native birds as well as those migrating will stop for a rest, finding shade, water and perhaps a meal in the water too. One of the appeals to golf is the opportunity to welcome players of all ages, from young ones learning with parents and grandparents to those who find the game the perfect way to stay active. “We have season pass holders as young as 7 years old and those over 90 years old,” Ogiego notes. The Park District offers varying levels of passes, including season, weekday and even punch cards that can be used for an individual or a group. The Park District aims to keep fees affordable to residents and nonresidents. There are Twilight Golf discounts, and Mondays are Senior Golf Days, where those ages 60 and older can play 9 holes for $15 per person, a great opportunity for singles, couples and even grandparents with their grandchildren. Ogiego says golf is a great sport for generations to bond, and to make new friends. “We have players who were paired up once last year as walk-on singles who are now playing together twice a week,” Ogiego says. “We have husbands and wives who play together, siblings, parents and their children, neighborhood groups and of course our men’s leagues and women’s leagues.” A visit to Pottawatomie can easily fit into one’s schedule, leaving plenty of time for the grandchildren to enjoy time in the park or friends to keep the fun going over a postgame meal. “We have players who have been friends for more than 50 years who come out and still enjoy a game together,” Ogiego says.