2 April 2013

GOLF GUIDE 2013

Battle Creek Enquirer

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GOLF GUIDE 2013

April 2013 3

Locals prepare for golf season at range at Cedar Creek Golf Club. JESSIE CARON/ENQUIRER

The Battle Creek Enquirers Golf Guide 2013 takes a look at golf in the area, featuring information on local golf courses as well as tips on how to improve your golf game.
INSIDE THIS SECTION

COVER STORY: Enquirer golf writer Will Kowalski talks to local experts on the importance of using driving ranges or practice greens to improve your success over a summer of golf rounds - Page 4 KEY DATES: Mark your calendar for the top tournaments of the summer using our schedule of events -Page 11 GOLF MAP: Find out where and when you can play golf throughout the area with our map of local courses - Page 12-13 AREA COURSES: Locations, course hours, green fees and description of courses in the area - starting on Page 14 SCHEDULES: Follow the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour and the Champions Tour with a season-long schedule - Page 20-21 FIRST TEE: Find out what Battle Creeks First Tee program has to offer this summer - Page 22 CONTACT US: If you have a golf event, tournament or want to report a hole in one or an eagle, send information to the sports desk at the Enquirer at bcesports@battlecreekenquirer.com

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Battle Creek Enquirer

DRIVEN to SUCCEED

The key to a golf season is to get some practice in early at a driving range like this golfer on the practice range of The Golf Club at Yarrow in Augusta. JESSIE CARON/FOR THE ENQUIRER

Local pros say its best to have a plan when working on practice ranges, practice greens

By Will Kowalski | The Enquirer

Practice makes perfect. Its a phrase that most folks have heard time and again during their lifes endeavors. Well, becoming perfect at something might be a bit of a stretch, as no matter what youre trying to get really good at, nobodys perfect. Yet it is commonly accepted that the more one practices at something, the better one gets. And that certainly holds true with the game of golf.

So, where does one practice golf? Certainly not on the golf course itself. When a linkster is playing a round, every shot counts. Plus, there are usually other golfers playing in front of you or behind you, which leaves little time to try new things or take extra swings which isnt allowed during a round, anyway, unless you enjoy marking double-digits down onto your scorecard. Rather, the place to hone ones game is on the practice range and the practice green. And many local courses and facilities have both ranges and practice greens on their grounds.
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The only problem is, the majority of average golfers or those newer to the game dont always know exactly what theyre supposed to really be doing when theyre Home on the Range. Whats right? Whats wrong? Follow along, and some answers will be offered by several local PGA teaching professionals and/or players with hopes of helping you become a better golfer, while also helping you get more enjoyment out of your links experiences. The local pros who offered their knowledge about the correct ways to do things on the range and the practice green for this article are John Morse, Matt Thompson, Gary Robinson, Ron Osborne and Dean Kolstad. For the wrong way to do things, yours truly can easily handle that angle, starting now.

What not to do on the range

Heres another catch-phrase that seems appropriate: Dont do what I do. Ive been the golf writer at the Enquirer for 25 years now, and Im pretty much an average bogey golfer myself. I have my moments when all goes well from tee to green on any one particular hole every once in a while, and I wind up scoring well on that hole in the process. However, I also inevitably wind up taking my share of extra strokes here and there and everywhere during a round. Those extra, unwanted strokes are due to a combination of mis-hits; bad course mental management decisions (for instance, using a driver on a tight fairway instead of a fairway wood or iron or hybrid which would lead to less

Golfers work on their game at the driving range at Binder Park Golf Course. JESSIE CARON/FOR THE ENQUIRER

distance but which might insure better accuracy); plain-ol out-of-sync swings or follow-throughs; plus the mis-reading or wrong-speed decisions of putts. And all of that bad stuff more than likely has to do with the way I usually approach my time on the range. First off, Ive never taken lessons
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LIST OF LOCAL PUBLIC GOLF PRACTICE RANGES

Binder Park Golf Course/The First Tee of Battle Creek, 7255 B Drive S, Battle Creek (Binder Park 979-8250, First Tee 979-6203). Bedford Valley Golf Club, 23161 Waubascon Rd., Battle Creek (965-3384). Cedar Creek Golf Club, 14000 Renton Rd., Battle Creek (965-6423). Marywood Golf Club, 21310 North Ave., Battle Creek (968-1168). Riverside Golf Club, 245 E. Columbia Ave., Battle Creek (962-3921). Hit-Em-Here, 1790 Columbia Ave., Battle Creek (965-5221). The Medalist Golf Club, 15701 N Drive N, Marshall (789-4653). Maple Hills Golf Club, 16344 East C Ave., Augusta (731-4430). Golf Club at Yarrow, 10499 N. 48th St., Augusta (731-2698). Stonehedge Golf Club, 15530 D Ave., Augusta (731-2300). Gull Lake View Golf Club, 7417 N 38th St., Augusta, opening June (7314149). Hickory Ridge Golf Course, 65 N 30th St., Galesburg (382-6212). Tomac Woods Golf Course, 14827 26 1/2 Mile Rd., Albion (800-835-9185). Foundation Learning Center, 491 Jonesville Rd., Coldwater (517-279-6164). Golf Club of Coldwater, 270 Narrows Rd., Coldwater (517-279-2100).

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from a professional, which is why Ill probably never get better. And without lessons from a pro, I guess you could say I really dont know how to correct my swing or set-up problems the way I should. That said, to make things worse, heres my typical practice range routine: Get a basket of balls, stretch out a little, then grab the driver out of the golf bag and start banging away a few dozen times. Then, if I still have a few moments

The more often you produce a consistent swing and then reproduce it, the better you will play.
JOHN MORSE
PGA pro

before my tee time, I might hit a couple of short irons and wedges on the range, then go to the practice green and putt a few balls around with hopes of finding a line and getting to know the speed of the greens that Ill soon be encountering. But thats pretty much it. Thats my routine. And its not a very good one, is it?

The right things to do

That said, its now time to find out the correct way to approach a practice range and practice green, via comments from some local experts. Those experts are: John Morse, age 55, of Marshall. Morse is a 1976 Marshall High grad who first went to Kellogg Community College, then on to the University of Michigan where he became captain of the squad. He then turned professional, played and won all around the world, played and won on the PGA Tour, and in more recent times was a former head pro at Marshall Country Club and also played on the Champions (Senior) Tour. Morse who has earned well over $1 million playing golf in his lifetime along with hitting over a million golf balls on the range said hes had some back problems again recently, and that if he doesnt wind up playing in Champions Tour and PGA Tour events again this season, that he might be helping out this summer as a teaching pro at Battle Creek Country Club. Matt Thompson of Battle Creek. As a prep star at Lakeview High he helped
Marshalls John Morse, a veteran of the PGA Tour, works with a young golfer on the driving range. AL LASSEN/FOR THE ENQUIRER
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president of the Western Michigan Chapter of the Michigan PGA, hes currently the secretary of the Michigan PGA (hell assume the role of president in about four to five years), and on his staff at Binder Park is PGA teaching pro Paul Hawkins, whom Osborne said is now Binder Parks No. 1 teaching pro as well as the sites top club fitter. The current president of the Michigan PGA is Gary Koenes, most recently of Springbrook Golf Course in Springfield. Dean Kolstad, who is the longtime head PGA professional at Bedford Valley Golf Club in Battle Creek (with Bedford Valley being one of the Gull Lake View chain of courses). Kolstad is also a former professional hockey player, and began working for the GLV chain over 15 years ago. It should also be noted that both Bedford Valley and Stonehedge of the Gull Lake View chain have practice ranges and practice greens, and that a new practice range is currently under construction at Gull Lake View Golf Club in Augusta and is expected to be open to the public in June. Following, then, are what those pros have to say about being efficient when you are Home on the Range. Youll notice that some of their recommendations differ a bit here and there, but individual golfers also differ a bit here and there as well, right? So use the information below as it pertains to your own personal game.

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the Spartans win a state title and was also a two-time prep individual state medalist. Thompson, now 23, completed his tenure with the University of Michigan golf team as one of its captains last spring he also won a unprecedented five consecutive Calhoun County Amateur titles during his prep and collegiate years and early last summer turned professional. He competed in PGA Tour Qualifying School in Georgia last midSeptember and made it through prequalifying, and then went to Florida to compete in the first state of Tour qualifying but did not advance from there on his first attempt. He said he will attempt Q-School again this year. Most recently he competed on the pro Gateway Tour in Arizona this winter, and said he might be around the Cereal City and will play in some Michigan major events this summer while figuring out his next moves toward someday realizing his goal of playing on the PGA Tour. Gary Robinson of Jackson, who is the longtime head PGA teaching professional at The Foundation Learning Center in Coldwater. Robinson, who has also excelled playing in regional pro events (including more recently at the Senior level), said that lately he has most been the personal PGA teacher of Brian Stuard of Jackson, who is now performing on the PGA Tour. Ron Osborne of Battle Creek, who is the head PGA professional and general manager of Binder Park Golf Course in the Cereal City. Osborne is a past

There are two basic types of practice: Mechanical practice and playing practice.
RON OSBORNE
Binder Park Golf Course Pro

Ron Osborne, the pro at the Binder Park Golf Course, says it is important to get practice in on the driving range. AL LASSEN/FOR THE ENQUIRER

John Morse
The thing about golf is that its a game of repetition and the more often
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Juniors have plenty of chances to compete

There are again plenty of opportunities for local youth golfers to play at the competitive level this season. Following is a list of available junior tours offered for boys and girls for the spring/summer/early fall of 2013.

GAME OF YOUR LIFE FOUNDATION

Based in Coldwater at The Foundation Learning Center, the Foundation offers the Meijer Junior Players Tour (for ages 7-14/starts May and June); the Adams Golf Junior Tour presented by Meijer (ages 12-19/starts May and June); and the TaylorMade-adidas Collegiate Series (starts in June). For signup information, see juniorgolf.org or call 517-2784892.

Battle Creek on June 20-21. Tour events begin in early June, and theres also a fall tour. For signup information, see michiganpgagolf.com or call 517-6417421.

TOP 50 JUNIOR TOUR

The Western Michigan Zone of the nationwide program is for boys and girls ages 12-18, and theres also a co-ed division for ages 8-11. For signup information, see top50juniortour.com.

MICHIGAN PGA JUNIOR TOUR

The Michigan PGA Junior Tour is for boys and girls ages 13-18. Included in the tour schedule is the Junior Championship at Bedford Valley Golf Club in

AMERICAN JUNIOR GOLF ASSOCIATION

The AAJGA has events at the local, state, regional and national levels, including tour stops in Michigan. For signup information, see ajga.org.

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Battle Creek Enquirer

if you do youll never finish it. Go home happy!

RANGE
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Matt Thompson
Spending time on the range is important for all skill levels. Time on the range can serve the purpose of simply warming up before a round, to working on your swing, to using drills and/or other training aids. In the case of practicing on the range, quality is much better than quantity. Many golfers can mindlessly hit balls on the range, firing one ball after another, and get in some sort of groove. We have all done this, and then we wonder why we cant find that groove on the course. Our time on the range is best spent going through our routine before each shot, simulating the process that we go through on the course. I think proper procedure is whatever procedure fits you the best. Personally, I warm up with some wedges and work up to my driver. If you want to focus on your driver, spend more time hitting your driver. If your wedges are holding you back, spend more time hitting wedges. The best way to spend your time on the range is the way that suits you the best. Spend as much time on the range as you wish as long as you are moving forward. Once you feel like you are doing more harm than good, move on to your short game. And the short game, its the most important part of golf. Everyone wants to hit the long drive, but being able to get up and down will save you more strokes than you can imagine. Practicing your short game is much like practicing on the range, its all about the quality of the time that you put in. Go through your routine before every chip and every putt. When practicing your short game, one tip applies to everyone who plays the game: Use your less-lofted clubs as much as you can around the greens. Dont be afraid to take out that 7-iron when you have green to work with. Sometimes we tend to take out the lob wedge without thinking, when our 7iron would serve us better. Practice using those clubs between your pitching wedge and 7-iron because it eliminates much of the risk that comes with using your lob wedge around the green. Spending some time on the range on days when you arent getting out on the course will help you to keep your rhythm and feel for the days ahead when you do get out on the course. It is even more important to maintain that feel around the greens. If you have a little time for some short-game practice on days when you arent playing, your chipping and putting will benefit. During the season when I have
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you produce a consistent swing and then reproduce it, the better you will play. Even better if its a fundamentally sound swing. Im not sure there is a proper or

When general golfers go to a practice range I almost never see anyone practice with a purpose.
GARY ROBINSON
Teaching pro at Foundation Learning Center

Gary Robinson of the Foundation Learning Center in Coldwater says taking lessons on the driving range can help your golf game. AL LASSEN/FOR THE ENQUIRER

improper procedure for practicing on the range. For example: Tom Watson starts sessions with a 3-iron, they are slow methodical swings at first but quickly gets to speed. Remember this is after he is in the gym for 30-45 minutes beforehand. One must find a routine and stick with it because that helps build consistency on how they approach a round of golf. A few exercises first is always recommended before you start is the main point here. You want to hit balls on the range, balls out of practice bunkers and hit putts on the practice green, all three things, because that helps you feel the game. You can start your warm-up on the range if you want, but I like to finish with a couple of very short putts before I go to the first tee box for a round for confidence. Going back to repetition, the more you do things the same, the better they become. I wouldnt recommend being scared off of a club unless its a driver. By that I mean management more than anything because you dont have to always hit a driver to score, but an iron is another thing. Practice does tend to make you better, but only if you practice the right things. One needs to find a good teacher or be an excellent student of the game for practice to be effective. If you have both, youre ahead of the game. It takes a long time for a golfer to figure out how and what is best for them. Personally I tend to hit more balls than some but not as many as others. I know people who hit very few but play incessantly. Both ways are OK. The key here is that they do it consistently and always maintain their fundamentals: grip, stance and alignment. Try and make your practice sessions fun and go with a thought or two to accomplish that day. Do not add to the laundry list as the day goes on because

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When you go to the range with a purpose and you are using it properly, you start out with your 56-degree or most lofted club. Lets talk in dozens. Maybe start out with some stretching. The hit some little 30-yard shots. Now go on to hitting some full shots with it. Now grab a mid-iron like a 7-iron. Next a long iron like a 4-iron, then a hybrid, now some 3-metals, then on to your driver. Like I said, all about a dozen. Then on to the short game area where you hit some 20-, 40-, 60-yard shots. Then to the chipping area where

April 2013 9
the cup, then onto 12, 20, 35 and longer putts. Remember, it' not how many, it's the quality of hitting that counts. All players vary in what clubs they hit, but all good players have this regimen. I am fortunate to coach Brian Stuard on the PGA Tour; at this time he is 37th on the money list with $690,000. He arrives an hour and half early to prepare for a tournament day. We now, because of his level of play, work more on shaping shots to prepare for tournament play. So at his level we spend less time on the range, more on the course with shaping shots and playing the game. So remember to utilize the range, have a purpose and continue to work with a qualified PGA professional.

Spending time on the range is important for all skill levels.

MATT THOMPSON
Former University of Michigan golf standout

Ron Osborne
In order to practice your golf game, we must first know how to practice. There are two basic types of practice: Mechanical practice and playing practice. A majority of players think that practice is beating golf balls. Wrong. That is just hitting balls. There must be a purpose for improvement. In reality, if youre working on something in your swing, then you must work on this correctly even if you miss the ball.

you some pitch and run shots and some short-sided shots. Then into the sand bunker with some long and short shots. Remember about a dozen each. This keeps you from useless random hitting. Now on to the putting surface. Start out with some five-footers around

Matt Thompson, a former standout at Lakeview and University of Michigan, says work on the range can help with technique or just as a warmup. THE ENQUIRER

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multiple tournaments, I will spend time on the range every day. Personally, the time I spend on the range varies from week to week and even day to day. I enjoy spending my time on the course and using that time to work on my game because nothing emulates the shots you need to work on like facing them on the course. When I am on the range, my time is spent working on my technique and mechanics. Stance and posture are very important to check on the range ... so that once you get on the course you

can put those things aside and focus on each shot. Luckily for us, there are great resources in West Michigan that golfers can use to further their progress in golf. The many PGA professionals we have are a great resource to hone in the aspects of your game that need the most focus.

Gary Robinson
When general golfers go to practice range I almost never see anyone practice with a purpose. If you are taking lessons, you should have some drills you are working on and your instructor should have given them to you.

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and then your full swing gets better. Set realistic goals and time frames to achieve them. If you want to win the club championship but have a 15 handicap, then give yourself time to work on things that will get you there. For instance, if you putt well but pitch poorly, then spend more time pitching and less time putting. Then, when its time to play, forget mechanics and focus on the target. You must learn to separate playing from practice. And lastly, if you want to improve and youre struggling, see your local PGA professional. Tour players take golf lessons, why wouldnt you? couple drivers then back to the irons, whatever works. Remember: Perfect practice makes for perfect shots. If you do not intend to get better every time you hit balls, you are wasting your time. It might not always work out that way,

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Two more things to remember: Learn better practice techniques, and dont forget about an equipment review for high handicappers. Here are some ideas for you to think about the next time you go out to mechanical practice. Always lay down a reference line for alignment. Use and 8-iron or a 7-iron to train with, even if youre having trouble with the driver. These clubs are easier to ingrain a feeling for than the driver. Verify your fundamentals, grip, aim, alignment, posture, ball position and plane angle. Start by loosening up with a sand wedge its the heaviest club in the bag and hitting little chip shots. Then move into small pitch shots. This builds a strong foundation for learning the proper impact alignments. Focus on whatever it is that you are trying to improve on mechanically. Do drills to help enforce this change. Every half hour, put down the clubs and take a break. Then alternate between the long game and the short game. Remember, as your chipping gets better your pitching gets better,

Always start on the putting green. It allows you to get mentally ready for your practice session.
DEAN KOLSTAD
PGA pro at Bedford Valley Golf Club

Dean Kolstad
Always start on the putting green. It allows you to get mentally ready for your practice session. Start by stretching, a good five to 10 minutes will assure you of some good practice time. After you are loosened up, hit some wedge shots, then stretch a little more. When you start to practice make sure you are focused on the task at hand. I start with the shorter clubs, five to 10 balls, then move up in the set. Save the driver till last. Some players like to hit a few irons, then a

but at least that was your intentions. And, after your time on the range, go back to the practice green and hit a few chips with different clubs. Get a feel for the texture of the grass. Finish up by hitting some more putts from different distances. Do all that, and your game will go stronger and stronger the more you spend your time working on the range and the practice green.

Dean Kolstad, PGA professional at Bedford Valley Golf Course, promotes working on the practice green before a round. JOHN
GRAP/THE ENQUIRER

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nament, featuring professionals from the Western Chapter of the Michigan PGA, at Custer Greens Golf Course on the grounds of the VA Medical Center. Starts 8:30 a.m. with instructional clinics, then 18 holes of golf (twice around the 9-hole course) starting at 10 a.m. The WMPGA makes donations to the VAs recreational programs each year, and VA patients caddy for the pros. For more information, call WMPGA president Dean Kolstad at Bedford Valley Golf Club at 965-3384. JUNE 14: Annual Optimist Junior World of Golf Local Tournament, at Binder Park Golf Course. For ages 5-18 for boys and girls; tee times start at 9 a.m. for older players. No fees for golf and free lunch, provided by the Harper Creek Optimist Club. Top older-aged finishers advance to state/regional play. For more information, call John Peruzze at 979-3045 or Binder Park at 979-8250. JUNE 20-21: Michigan PGA Junior Championship, at Bedford Valley Golf Club. Open to all junior players, boys and girls, ages 13-18. Top boy and girl finishers advance to regional competition. For more information or to sign up, see michiganpgagolf.com or call the Michigan PGA at 517-641-7421. JUNE 24: Golf Association of Michigan/USGA Junior Amateur Championship local qualifier, at Battle Creek Country Club. The championship is July 29-Aug. 1 at Radrick Farms Golf Course in Ann Arbor. For more information, see gam.org or call the Golf Association of Michigan at 248-478-9242. JUNE 28: Chilis First Tee Fundraiser Outing, annual fundraiser outing for The First Tee of Battle Creek. Call The First Tee at 979-6203 or Binder Park at 979-8250. JULY 9-10: 21st annual City Senior Championship, open to all male and female players age 50-over. Flighted by score and age after first round. Opening round this year will be played at Cedar Creek Golf Club on July 9, and second and final round will be played on July 10 at Binder Park Golf Course. For more information or to sign up, call Cedar Creek at 965-6423 or Binder Park at 979-8250. JULY 15-17: 32nd annual Michigan PGA Senior Open, at Bedford Valley

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KEY DATES FOR 2013

MAY 5: Annual Open House for The First Tee of Battle Creek Learning Academy, noon to 3 p.m., at The First Tees building on the grounds of Binder Park Golf Course. For more information about the Open House, or to sign up for this seasons First Tee programs (which begin in early May and run through early September), call program director Steve Van Der Heide at The First Tee at 979-6203. MAY 9: Local qualifier for the 102nd Golf Association of Michigan Championship, at Bedford Valley Golf Club. Qualifiers for the event will take place May 7 through June 1; the 102nd championship is June 18-22 at Muskegon Country Club. For more information, see gam.org or call the Golf Association of Michigan at 248-478-9242. MAY 23: Michigan Open Qualifier, at Battle Creek Country Club. Registration deadline May 15. For more information, see michiganpgagolf.com or call the Michigan PGA at 517-641-7421. The Michigan Open Championship is June 10-13 at The Orchards Golf Club in Washington Township. MAY 28: 60th annual VA/PGA TourGolf Club. The Pro-Am, open to the public and for all ages, is July 15. The tourney, for male golfers age 50-over, is July 16-17. For more information or to sign up, see michiganpgagolf.com or call the Michigan PGA at 517-641-7421. JULY 17-18: 22nd Golf Association of Michigan Womens Championship, at Gull Lake Country Club. Registration deadline is July 3. For more information, see gam.org or call the Golf Association of Michigan at 248-478-9242. AUG. 6: Annual City Junior Championship, open to all youths, at Binder Park Golf Course. Tee times start at 10 a.m. For more information or to sign up, call Binder Park at 979-8250. AUG. 17-18: 36th annual Calhoun County Amateur Championship, open to all male and female players (including older-aged juniors), at Binder Park Golf Course. Flighted after first round of 18 holes; several flights available; scratch as well as higher-handicap golfers invited. For the second straight year, tee times will be used instead of shotgun starts. To sign up or for more information, call Binder Park at 9798250.

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AREA COURSES
THE MEDALIST GOLF CLUB
ADDRESS/PHONE: 15701 N DRIVE NORTH, Marshall; 269-789-GOLF (4653) HOLES/YARDS.PAR: 18/6,965/72 OPERATION HOURS: Sunrise to sunset WALKING FEES: $22/$36 for 9/18 holes weekdays all day, $26/$44 for 9/18 holes weekends. Also offered is a special senior (55 and older) walking rate of $12 for 9 holes and $22 for 18 holes Monday through Friday. Gold Medalist Thursdays all season long 18 holes with cart $37 or $28 for seniors offered every Thursday. WHATS OFFERED: Power carts, pro shop, practice range, practice green, rental equipment, food, restaurant, bar, outing and tournament opportunities, patio dining area (Osprey Grille), banquet facility, weddings, class reunions. COURSE EXECUTIVES: Osprey Recreational Properties that also own Ridgeview GC in Kalamazoo, Manistee National GC in Manistee, and the Otsego Club also in Gaylord. Lowell Weaver II (general manager); John Thompson (food and beverage manager); Kelly Perrian (event/wedding coordinator); Alan Blonde (superintendent). COURSE OPENED IN: 1996 (front nine), 1997 (back nine). ABOUT THE MEDALIST Lowell Weaver is back for his 14th season as general manager of the upscale 18-hole layout that is located on N Drive North near I-69 and kitty-corner to Cornwells Turkeyville USA. Also back as Superintendent of the championship-style, 18-hole course is Alan Blonde. And in its 8th full year as owners of the 6,965yard, par-72 layout is the Osprey Recreational Properties/Osprey Management group. The Osprey group has made sure that The Medalists playing conditions are up to their high standards and that the course is in immaculate shape. Golfers from near and far truly enjoy playing The Medalist for its design that blends natural surroundings with both the links and parkland styles, and which sports plush bent grass fairways and large fast greens. Michigan State Junior Championship last season. The Medalist again will be offering Gold Medalist Thursdays as it was so popular in previous seasons. Every Thursday you can play 18 holes with cart for $37 or $28 for seniors 55 and older. Also included is $2 hot dogs, $2 drafts and $2 range tokens.

RIVERSIDE GOLF CLUB & BANQUET CENTER

ADDRESS/PHONE: (Office/Pro Shop): 245 E. Columbia Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49015, 269-964-0291 HOLES/YARDS/PAR: 18/6,664/72 OPERATION HOURS: Sunrise to Sunset WHATS OFFERED: Electric golf carts, pull carts, pro shop, golf lessons, practice range, practice green, food & snacks, bar & beverages, & banquet facilities. CLUB EXECUTIVES: The Vocke family and Ryan Frost (grounds superintendent); COURSE OPENED IN: 1925 ABOUT RIVERSIDE GOLF CLUB: Riverside was started in 1925. Known at that time as the Masonic Golf Club, the course was a 9-hole facility. In 1927 another 9 holes were added, positioning 12 holes north and 6 holes south of See AREA COURSES, Page S15

The Medalist Golf Club of Marshall offers an intriguing course and scenic layout. JOHN
GRAP/THE ENQUIRER

In addition to the intriguing course and scenic layout, The Medalist has added a beautiful tented facility that can accommodate up to 300 guests for parties, reunions, weddings, receptions, or banquets. The Medalist welcomes back John Thompson as our food and beverage manager. John has extensive experience in the local market as an owner and manager of many successful restaurants. Most recently, John was the food and beverage manager at the upscale Otsego Club in Gaylord. Weaver said we are very happy to welcome John back to The Medalist. We have created a great reputation for the quality of our food and with John, I feel that our reputation will get even better. The layout of the course is one of the best youll find and we stress customer service, Weaver said. We want people who come out here to enjoy their whole day, from their initial interaction with the pro shop staff, to the experience of playing on this championship course, and finally enjoying dinner on the picturesque patio overlooking the 18th

green. The fantastic layout and pristine conditions lends itself to tournament play, which is why the Golf Association of Michigan has chosen to host at least one tournament here each of the last 12 years, including the

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AREA COURSES
Continued from Page 14 Columbia Avenue. In 1933 the club became incorporated and the name changed to Riverside Country Club. The present course configuration, 9 holes north & 9 holes south of Columbia Avenue, took place in 1963. In 2011 a group of local investors purchased the club, and opened it to the public. Currently, Riverside has wonderful amenities to offer. The banquet center at Riverside has been newly remodeled and is the perfect place to host a reception, class reunion, party, or any other special event. Riverside has also upgraded their cart fleet from gas carts to electric. Riverside is the perfect place to host your golf outing, tournament or golf fund raiser. The golf course is in immaculate condition. Well maintained greens, tees, and fairways are overseen by Ryan Frost, Grounds Superintendent, a graduate of Michigan States Horticulture Landscape Design program. Ryan is in his 6th year of overseeing the course. There are continuous improvements planned and being made to the course and facilities. The location is outstanding, you dont have to drive very far for a great golfing experience, and Riverside probably has some of the best views in the area. The banquet facilities are also availible and opened for the public to book receptions, parties, meetings, and any other special event you may have. Seating capacity goes from 20 up to 230 guests, and offers a wonderful large dance floor and beautiful views of the course and downtown. A great place that is conveniently located for the public to enjoy. families, couples, juniors, and seniors to enjoy the game of golf. There are 4 sets of tees on every hole, so even the best players can be challenged, and the not so experienced player truly enjoys the game without getting beat up and frustrated. You can also play the game a lot quicker than a regulation length course, and it doesnt cost as much! Conveniently located at the very south end of Helmer Road. Keep your eye out for the famous Couples Margarita Nites. Also part of the fun is playing on grounds that are filled with remnants of the old, original Dairy farm that Cedar Farms was built on including farm equipment, tools, and the 120-plus-year-old barn that serves as the backdrop and backstop to the No. 1 green.

CEDAR CREEK GOLF CLUB

Cedar Creek Golf Club has a No. 5 hole that features two ponds running across the fairway. JOHN GRAP/THE ENQUIRER
HOLES/YARDS/PAR: 18/3,179/61 (back tees). OPERATION HOURS: Sunrise to sunset. WALKING FEES: $9.00 for 9 holes, $14.00 for 18 holes weekdays. $10.00 for 9 holes, $16.00 for 18 holes weekends. WHAT'S OFFERED: Power carts, pull carts, pro shop, lessons, practice green, rental equipment, food, bar, picnic area, group outings, expansive junior program and opportunities in tandem with those at Cedar Creek Golf Club COURSE EXECUTIVES: Cris and Kriste Vocke (owners); Tim Hesselink (superintendent) COURSE OPENED IN: 1998 ABOUT CEDAR FARMS: Cedar Farms is one of the coolest golf courses you may ever play. It is a strategic style course that features outstanding playing conditions and great greens. What makes it cool is that it consists of 7 par fours and 11 par threes, and is on some of the most beautiful real estate in the area. It has been described as one of the best strategic style courses you may ever play, and definitely one of the best in the Midwest, right here in your hometown! The course was constructed in 1997 by the Vocke family, along with Tim Hesselink, the course superintendent. Ron Nickel construction was brought in to help with the shaping of the course and greens. Cedar Farms officially opened in 1998. Cedar Farms Golf Club is a fabulous place for ADDRESS/PHONE: 14000 Renton Road, Battle Creek, 965-6423. HOLES/YARDS/PAR: 18/6,467/72 (back tees). OPERATION HOURS: Sunrise to sunset. WALKING FEES: $12.00 for 9 holes, $18.00 for 18 holes weekdays. $13.00 for 9 holes, $20.00 for 18 holes weekends (carts extra). Inquire at course about junior, senior and other special Rates. WHAT'S OFFERED: Power carts, pull carts, pro shop, lessons, practice range, practice green, rental equipment, food, bar, areas for large groups both inside the clubhouse and outside in the picnic area, expansive junior program and opportunities in tandem with those at Cedar Farms (reservations recommended but walk-ups always welcome) COURSE EXECUTIVES: Cris and Kriste Vocke (owners);Tim Hesselink (superintendent); Tom Cameron (general manager); Jenny See AREA COURSES, Page 16

CEDAR FARMS GOLF CLUB

ADDRESS/PHONE: 12111 South Helmer Road, Battle Creek; 979-7277 (PARS)

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Continued from Page 15 Kijek (food & beverage manager) COURSE OPENED IN: 1974 ABOUT CEDAR CREEK: Cris & Kriste Vocke purchased Cedar Creek Golf Club from the Brown family and the Penty family in 1990, and they proceeded to upgrade the playing facilities. The course was originally opened in 1974. Players enjoy Cedar Creek because of its great conditions, friendly staff, and affordable prices. The par 72 course boosts 5 par threes, and 5 par 5s. There are four sets of tees, so pick the one that suits your driving distances! Cedar Creek is just a very fun and challenging place to play, that is why it is the most popular course in the city. Cedar Creek is known for a great place to have your golf outing or league. We also offer several tournaments, scrambles, and our famous Couples Pinehurst on Friday evenings. There is an event for everyone who would like to participate! Please call for more information. Cedar Creek Golf Club also has a great practice facility. There are 2 putting and chipping greens, and a wonderful range. Lessons and Junior golf programs are our specialty. Cedar Creek hosts 3 high school golf teams.

ISLAND HILLS GOLF CLUB

ADDRESS/PHONE: 61809 Stonegate Drive, Centreville, MI 49032 HOLES/YARDS/PAR: 18/7038/72 RATING/SLOPE: 73.9/135 OPERATION HOURS: 7AM to 7PM GOLF WITH CART: Weekdays $49/Weekends $59 WALKING FEES: N/A WHAT'S OFFERED: Full service restaurant, driving range and accommodations. COURSE EXECUTIVES: Andy Mears, President & COO; Joe Jehnsen, Superintendent COURSE OPENED IN: 1999 ABOUT ISLAND HILLS: Island Hills GC is a Ray Hearn masterpiece, which was completely renovated in 2010/2011. Island Hills is nestled near Lake Templene and boasts magnificent conditions with playable areas of woodlands and prairie. Call 269.467.7261 for tee times.

Yarrow Golf Course in Augusta has a links-style feel, with wide fairways and large, distinctively rolling greens . JOHN GRAP/THE ENQUIRER
newly renovated overnight rooms, Pub and full-service conference/retreat center (reservations recommended). COURSE EXECUTIVES: Managed by Hotel Investment Services, Head Pro Steve Helner, Superintendent - Chad Hively, General Manager Toby Hilton and President - Tim Moskalik COURSE OPENED IN: 2003. ABOUT YARROW: Yarrow opened its doors in November of 1992 with only nine guest rooms, dining for 20 and a few cozy meeting rooms. Since that time, the landscape has changed dramatically. Today, Yarrow features a 14,000 square foot Lodge, 45 newly renovated overnight rooms, an 18-hole 4-star rated championship golf course, two dining options the Yarrow Pub & Evergreen Dining Room, 12 versatile meeting spaces to host everything from weddings to corporate groups to church retreats, Golf Outings and Golf Groups. Yarrow is a Certified Steward with Michigan Green Lodging and its commitment to environmental sustainability is evident by the layout and design of the golf course. When Michigan native, Raymond Hearn, set out to design Yarrow in 2002, he was determined to carefully preserve the natural surroundings, which through the years have made the area such an appealing place to visit. Working from a well-planned design that required very little earth moving, Hearn created 18 beautiful holes that challenge the best golfers, yet still leave plenty of room for errant shots. Yarrow has a links-style feel, with wide fairways and large, distinctively rolling greens guarded by strategically located sand bunkers and high fescue. At Yarrow, youll experience dramatic views from the five tee box set-up, extremely generous landing areas, enormous green complexes, subtle changes of elevation and only two forced carries over hazards on the entire course. Hearns design respects all the natural beauty of the area, sending the track through groves of Scotch pine, hardwoods, native bushes and grasses, a private lake, numerous See AREA COURSES, Page S17

THE GOLF CLUB AT YARROW

ADDRESS/PHONE: 10499 North 48th Street, Augusta; 269-731-2698. HOLES/YARDS/PAR: 18/7,005/72 (back tees). OPERATION HOURS: Sunrise to sunset. FEES: $55 for 18 holes with a cart weekdays, $65 for 18 holes with cart on weekends. Inquire at course about daily specials and senior/junior specials. WHAT'S OFFERED: Power carts, pro shop, lessons, practice range, practice green, rental equipment, food, restaurant, bar, outing and tournament opportunities, patio area, banquet facilities, The Lodge at Yarrow featuring a 14,000 square foot lodge along with 45

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Continued from Page 16 marshy areas and the meandering Augusta Creek. From the first tee shot through a chute of pine trees on No. 1 to the No. 18 par 4 that provides a gorgeous view of the Lodge as it rises majestically behind the 18th greenwherever you are on the course youll get a generous dose of what makes Yarrow one of the most beautiful and playable courses in Michigan. Yarrow is a memorable course that golfers will want to play over and over again. The course offers a test for all levels of golfers, has a lot of variety with different hole styles and is very scenic. If you have not yet played Yarrow, you will want to put it on your list as you will truly be impressed. modates up to 250 people and is an economical venue for weddings, parties, business meetings, reunions and any other event in which you need ample space and good food and beverage.

LAKE DOSTER GOLF CLUB

ADDRESS/PHONE: 116 Country Club Boulevard, Plainwell; 269-685-5308 Golf Shop, 269-685-6368 - Banquets HOLES/YARDS/PAR: 18/6,565/72. OPERATION HOURS: Sunrise to sunset. WHAT'S OFFERED: Power carts, beverages, bar, food, rental equipment, pro shop, lessons, practice range, banquet facilities (reservations usually necessary, but walk-ups always welcome). COURSE EXECUTIVES: Tim Hartson, Todd Hartson, Bart Hartson, David Yaw and Walt Matyasic (owners); Dan Haagsma (superintendent). COURSE OPENED IN: 1968 9 holes, 1969 18 holes. ABOUT LAKE DOSTER Designed and built as a home- and condolined country club type project around the lake, Lake Doster Golf Club came under new management in the late 1980s when a group See AREA COURSES, Page 18

RIDGEVIEW GOLF COURSE

ADDRESS/PHONE: 10360 West Main St. Kalamazoo MI, 49009 - 269-375-8821 HOLES/YARDS/PAR: 18 holes, 6235 yards par 71 RATING/SLOPE: 71.1 / 118 OPERATION HOURS: Daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. GOLF WITH CART: Weekdays golf w/cart $33, weekends golf w/cart $35, Sr./Jr./College $23 weekdays before 1:00 p.m. w/cart WALKING FEES: Weekdays $18, weekends $20 WHAT'S OFFERED: 18 holes of Golf, Bar and Grill COURSE EXECUTIVES: Andrew G. Soley GM/ P.G.A. Golf Professional ABOUT RIDGEVIEW: Ridgeview Golf Course is a player friendly yet challenging golf course. Players of all levels are challenged with 4 sets of tees to select from and will use every club and shot in there bag. Ridgeview is a facility that allows the serious golfer to be challenged and the average golfer to have a very enjoyable round of golf. The friendly bar and grill offers a great relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a sandwich and your favorite beverage after your round. The golf course is under new management in 2013 and features a friendly, courteous professional staff to make your golf experience a very enjoyable one. We have a great Spring rate of $27 for 18 holes with cart or $15 for 18 holes walking. Spring Senior/Junior/College rates are $23 for 18 holes with cart. 9 hole rates are available along with great yearly membership rates. We have golf league availabilities. Please call for tee times.

Bunkers and water can be found everywhere at Lake Doster. JOHN GRAP/THE ENQUIRER
GOLF WITH CART: 9 Holes with Cart: $20.00/Weekday & Weekends after 2pm $22.00/Weekend. 18 Holes with Cart: $34.00/ Weekday & Weekends after 2pm - $38.00/ Weekend. Senior 9 Holes with Cart: $18.00/ Weekday & Weekends after 2pm - $22.00/ Weekend. Senior 18 Holes with Cart: $30.00/ Weekday & Weekends after 2pm - $38.00/ Weekend. WALKING FEES: 9 Holes: $12.00/Weekday & Weekends after 2pm - $14.00/Weekend. 18 Holes: $19.00/Weekday & Weekends after 2pm - $23.00/Weekend. Senior 9 Holes: $10.00/ Weekday & Weekends after 2pm - $14.00/ Weekend. Senior 18 Holes: $15.00/Weekday & Weekends after 2pm - $23.00/Weekend. WHAT'S OFFERED: Public Play. Excellent course condition. Close proximity to Kalamazoo. Gas powered carts, pull carts, practice range, practice green, pro shop, bar, beverage cart, food, outing opportunities, league opportunities, banquet facility (up to 250). COURSE EXECUTIVES: Joe Farrell, Director of Golf; Brian Larsen, Superintendent. Golf Services, Consultants. COURSE OPENED IN: 1912. ABOUT "THE PRAIRIES": The Prairies Golf Club, conveniently located at West Main and US-131, proudly boasts excellent playing conditions from tee to green. Although once a private Elks Lodge golf club, The Prairies opened play to the public in 1998. The terrain of the golf course is gently rolling making it enjoyable for all levels of play (seniors, women and juniors) yet the course remains challenging to the avid golfer. The Prairies Golf Club welcomes you to experience the perfect layout for golf outings. Many areas of the golf course are gathering places where you can mingle with your fellow outing participants without slowing play. Joe Farrell and his staff make the outing an entertaining experience with a personal touch. The pro shop stocks balls, gloves, apparel and accessories from Golf Services. The fully-stocked bar is open daily and food service is provided by Asiago Bakery and Deli of Kalamazoo. The banquet facility at The Prairies accom-

THE PRAIRIES GOLF CLUB

(a/k/a Elks Golf Club) ADDRESS/PHONE: 5303 West Main, Kalamazoo; 269-343-3906. HOLES/YARDS/PAR: 18 Holes/6,044 yards/ Par 71 White Tees. RATING/SLOPE: 69.2/126 White Tees. OPERATION HOURS: Sunrise to Sunset.

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Continued from Page 17 from the Battle Creek area took over as owners. And that fivesome has upheld and continued Lake Doster's rich tradition as one of the finest courses in the area - and making it a public course instead of a private club - by implementing improvements and upgrades on an annual basis. The course is plush, lush and decorated, and holes go every which way which explains why one gets the feeling of being in near isolation, aside from one's own group members, when going from hole to hole along the long and winding cart paths both on and between holes. Bunkers and water can be found everywhere, and most every hole offers a challenge. The most challenging hole - or at least the most fun and/or maddening to play - is the 88-yard, par-3 No. 3 hole that has earned the nickname of "The Little Monster." Golfers from near and far never forget their experience of playing the unique "Little Monster" that features an elevated tee that's horseshoed by trees, and an extremely lowlevel green that's pretty much surrounded by bunkers and water. The design makes the hole look deceptively longer than it really is, and also makes a golfer's heart beat just a little faster in anticipation of where their ball is going to land - on the narrow green, short of the green in a trap or in the water, over the green in the water, to the right of the green in the water, or to the left of the green and in relatively safe shape. Lake Doster's greens fees remain quite reasonable for an upscale-type course, and golfers from near and far agree that it's well worth the money spent to play this northern resort-feel layout that features a variety of interesting holes - some very short, some very long and which is located off M-89 between Richland and Plainwell. Visit our website at www.lakedostergolf.com. You can text Doster at 49798 to join our VIP Club and get future golf offers and a chance to win a free round of golf with cart.

HICKORY RIDGE GOLF COURSE

ADDRESS/PHONE: 65 North 30th Street at M-96 (Michigan Avenue) intersection, Galesburg; 269-382-6212. HOLES/YARDS/PAR: Red Course 9/2,370/33, White Course 9/2,076/33, Blue Course 9/2,180/ 33 (back tees). OPERATION HOURS: Sunrise to sunset. WALKING FEES: $9.50/$15 for 9/18 holes weekdays, $10.50/$17 weekends. RIDING FEES: $5.50/$11 for 9/18 holes weekdays. SENIORS: 55+ Mon.-Fri. (no holidays) before 2 PM $10/$18 for 9/18 includes cart TWILIGHT: Every day after 6 PM 9/riding $10 WHAT'S OFFERED: Power carts, pull carts, pro shop, lessons, practice range, practice green, rental equipment, food, beverages (reservations not usually necessary). COURSE EXECUTIVES: Dave Dart (owner); Woodie Capron (club and Class A PGA teaching pro): Wade Lowder (Pro Shop Manager). COURSE OPENED IN: 1995 (first 18 holes), 1998 (final nine holes). ABOUT HICKORY RIDGE GOLF COURSE Looking for a place to play a quick nine? Then another quick - yet different - nine, and See AREA COURSES, Page 19

The No. 16 hole at Oakland Hills Golf Course is known as "the moat." JOHN GRAP/THE ENQUIRER
COURSE OWNERS: George Vello (George Vello Nickolaou) and family. COURSE OPENED IN: 1973. COURSE HONORS: The course has received multiple Four Star ratings from Golf Digests Best Places To Play; rated best greens in the tri-state area by Michigan State Universitys renowned Turf Grass Program; featured as a destination on Fox Sports Detroit TV and M.Live. ABOUT OAKLAND HILLS George Vello never had official training as a golf course architect. But the personable 80-year-old immigrant from Neret, Macedonia - who came to the U.S. in 1951 - built the 18hole course along H Drive North pretty much on his own, opened it in 1973 and continues to make improvements to his layout each year. Because of the course's friendly atmosphere and dedication to the rules and principles of the game of golf, people have returned annually from both in-state and globally to play Oakland Hills' 6,631-yard, par-72 layout. Its reasonable rates and verdant mix of hills, trees and water that at some points parallels I-94 have won the course regional acclaim. And the well maintained greens are considered by some the best anywhere. The greens are key greens that turf management groups from around the country have been envious of for years due to their bent-grass purity - which enables golfers to fire shots toward the pins on greens that hold extremely well and which are silky smooth for putting. Oakland Hills' historic clubhouse occupies a grand country farmhouse that was built in 1862 which at one time served as a stop-over point on the Underground Railroad. During another era the building was a half-way house for Al Capone where illegal wares and monies were exchanged between Detroit and Chicago businessmen. Most recently, the property was a dairy farm before George constructed the golf course. There is ample seating inside the historic clubhouse for foursomes and leagues, but larger parties are also able to enjoy the spacious outdoor pavilion. Play is fast, no special coupons are required for low rates and there is always a nine open for easy access. And since 2010, the course has been just a chip shot away (three minutes door-to-door) from Battle Creeks new casino in Emmett Township.

OAKLAND HILLS GOLF CLUB

ADDRESS/PHONE: 11619 H Drive North, Battle Creek; 269-965-0809. WEBSITE: www.oaklandhillsgolfclub.com, Facebook and Twitter. HOLES/YARDS/PAR: 18/6,631/72 (back tees). OPERATION HOURS: Sunrise to sunset. RATES: Current rates and specials available at www.oaklandhillsgolfclub.com. WHAT'S OFFERED: Power carts, pull carts, pro shop, putting green, chipping green, sand trap and shag ball practice area, food, bar, historic clubhouse, league play, tournament and outing opportunities. Reservations not necessary and walk-ups always welcome (but it's always best to call the course first). Casino is three minutes away. WHATS NEW: 40 year anniversary celebration.

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GOLF GUIDE 2013

HOLES/YARDS/PAR: 9 holes/2,946 yards/Par 36 RATING/SLOPE: 69.0/131 Blue tees OPERATION HOURS: 7 a.m. to sunset daily, thru the golf season RIDING FEES: $15/$25 for 9/18 holes weekdays, $16/$26 for 9/18 holes weekends WALKING FEES: $8/$12 for 9/18 holes weekdays, $9/$13 for 9/18 holes weekends WHAT'S OFFERED: Power carts, pull carts, golf shop, practice green, rental equipment, grill, Ale House restaurant/bar upstairs, league play and tournament and outing opportunities, along with 2 and 3 person scrambles all season. COURSE EXECUTIVES: Bonnie Bogue (Director of Golf Operations), Operated by BLF Management. COURSE OPENED IN: 1972. ABOUT SPRINGBROOK Try it, you'll like it! Springbrook is Battle Creeks best kept secret! Springbrook's playability compares well with any course in the area. The fairways are well defined and the greens are excellent. Springbrook has a personality all its own which will challenge the best of golfers without intimidating the less skilled. If you haven't played this course in the last few years, you won't recognize it! Rates are reasonable, the staff is friendly and the conditions are topnotch!

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Continued from Page 18 even a third quick nine before calling it a day? Then Hickory Ridge Golf Course in Galesburg just might be the place for you. It certainly has been the place to play for many local and area golfers since Hickory Ridge and its original 18 holes opened to the public in 1995, and then expanded to 27 holes in June 1998 - the result of which are the current Red, White and Blue nine-hole layouts. The three, mid-length nines are a unique setup that have been received by the public course player quite well, said club and Class A PGA teaching professional Woodie Capron. "Golfers first come out here thinking that Hickory Ridge is just a bunch of par-3 holes, but they soon find out that's not the case," said Capron, who administers and runs several junior and adult lesson sessions - three meetings per session - each season, as well as Sherman Lake junior camps. "Yes, it's true that there area a several par-3s out here, but each nine has 4 par-4s and a par-5 as well. So, while playing less-timeconsuming, golfers also get the feeling of playing a full-length golf course because of the way the holes are designed. Some are longer, some are shorter, and they require a variety of clubs." Owned and operated by Dave Dart - former owner of Turtle Creek Golf Club in Burlington Dave Dart and his father Ken Dart designed and built Hickory Ridge. With three nines they have open golf almost all the time and can get you right off the tee. The picturesque Springbrook Golf Course is surrounded by nature. Its topography rolls through majestic hardwoods, along streams and around ponds. Water comes into play on 5 of the 9 holes. The greens are excellent and mowed daily. Fairways and tee boxes are well defined. The entire play area is watered and fertilized for a beautiful, playable golfing experience every time you're out. Springbrook will challenge the best golfers without intimidating the less skilled. Play today to take advantage of the outstanding golf and the many benefits at out top-notch facility. We strive for excellence and offer the best value around. Before or after your round, be sure to stop and check out the Ale House Restaurant. Whether you are looking for a full dinner, a snack or a drink to quench your thirst, you will enjoy the warm and comfortable atmosphere while watching golfers approach the challenging 9th green. Like us on Facebook and/or follow us on Twitter to take advantage of special offers that no one else receives! Springbrook Golf Course and the Ale House Restaurant where its always fun, friendly and affordable! For a virtual tour of our facilities including all nine holes and the Ale House, log on to www.springbrookgolf.net.

One of the choices at Binder Park Golf Course is The Marsh Course. AL LASSEN/FOR THE
ENQUIRER

BINDER PARK GOLF COURSE

ADDRESS/PHONE: 7255 B Drive South, Battle Creek; 979-8250. HOLES/YARDS/PAR: Natural Course 9/ 3,257/35, Marsh Course 9/3,346/36, Preserve Course 9/3,276/36 (back tees). OPERATION HOURS: Sunrise to sunset. WALKING FEES: $12/$21 for 9/18 holes weekdays, $13/$23 weekends (carts extra). Also, fee for the three-hole practice course is $3 weekdays and weekends. Inquire at course regarding junior, senior and other special rates. WHAT'S OFFERED: Power carts, pull carts, pro shop, lessons, practice range, practice green, rental equipment, food, bar, three-hole practice facility, expansive junior program, lots of events for seniors (reservations not always necessary, but it's best to call course first for tee time availability on a particular course). COURSE EXECUTIVES: Jeff Hovarter (B.C. Parks and Recreation director); Ron Osborne (head pro, Class A PGA Member, general manager); Chuck Duckwall (Class A PGA Member); Paul Hawkins ( Class A PGA Member), Dave Damerow (PGA apprentice); Ryan Dingman (superintendent); Roy Tooke (director of The First Tee of Battle Creek junior program; First Tee building is located on the Binder Park grounds/979-6203). COURSE OPENED IN: 1963 (original 18-hole

layout), 2000 (expansion project that included using some of the original holes and adding new ones for three nine-hole layouts plus a three-hole practice facility). ABOUT BINDER PARK From the early 1960s through the late 1990s, Binder Park Golf Course - Battle Creek's only municipal (city owned) course - was a hotbed for local players and was many times honored on the state and national levels for its playability and beauty. But because the course was so heavily trafficked, it was many times hard to get tee times. Hard for walk-up players, hard for folks who wanted to start new leagues, hard for juniors and novices to the sport who wanted to learn the game. Eighteen holes just werent enough. So, in mid-June 2000, a new 27-hole version of Binder Park Golf Course made its debut, which incorporated many of the courses old favorite holes with several new ones. And the new three nine-hole layouts were named The Marsh, The Preserve and The Natural. And along with the new layouts came a new three-hole practice course, as well as a new practice range (something the old Binder Park didn't have), a new practice green and a modern new clubhouse. Then, three seasons ago, popular local golf professional Ron Osborne took over running the clubhouse. And since that time, the popularity of Binder Park has blossomed even more. Lots of league, tourney, member, outing, junior (in conjunction with The First Tee of Battle Creek that's located on Binder Park's grounds), special event and walk-up play is now the norm at Binder Park. "I think that our customers really feel comfortable here at Binder Park, and they're enjoying coming out here more on a regular basis," Osborne said.

SPRINGBROOK GOLF COURSE

ADDRESS/PHONE: 1600 Avenue A, Springfield; 269-441-7529.

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April 11-14 Masters Tournament, Augusta National GC, Augusta, Ga. April 18-21 RBC Heritage, Harbourtown GL, Hilton Head Island, S.C. April 25-28 Zurich Classic, TPC Louisiana, New Orleans May 2-5 Wells Fargo Championship, Quail Hollow Club, Charlotte, N.C. May 9-12 The Players Championship, TPC Sawgrass (Players Stadium Course), Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. May 16-19 HP Byron Nelson Championship, TPC Four Seasons Resort, Las Colinas, Texas. May 23-26 Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial, Colonial CC, Fort Worth, Texas May 30-June 2 Memorial Tournament, Muirfield Village GC, Dublin, Ohio June 6-9 FedEx St. Jude Classic, TPC Southwind, Memphis, Tenn. June 13-16 U.S. Open, Merion GC, Ardmore, Pa. June 20-23 Travelers Championship, TPC River Highlands, Hartford, Conn. June 27-30 AT&T National, Congressional CC (Blue Course), Bethesda, Md. July 4-7 The Greenbrier Classic, The Greenbrier (The Old White TPC), White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. July 11-14 John Deere Classic, TPC Deere Run, Silvis, Ill. July 18-21 The Open Championship, Muirfield, Gullane, Scotland July 18-21 True South Classic, Annandale GC, Madison, Miss. July 25-28 RBC Canadian Open, Glen Abbey GC, Oakville, Ontario Aug. 1-4 WGC-Bridgestone Invitational, Firestone CC (South Course),Akron, Ohio Aug. 1-4 Reno-Tahoe Open, Montreaux Golf & CC, Reno, Nev. Aug. 8-13 PGA Championship, Oak Hill CC, Rochester, N.Y. Aug. 15-18 Wyndham Championship, Sedgefield CC, Greensboro, N.C. Aug. 22-25 The Barclays, Liberty National, Jersey City, N.J. Aug. 30-Sept. 2 Deutsche Bank Championship, TPC Boston, Norton, Mass.

Battle Creek Enquirer

PROFESSIONAL GOLF
PGA Tour Schedule
Jan. 4-7 Hyundai Tournament of Champions (Dustin Johnson) Jan. 10-13 Sony Open (Russell Henley) Jan. 17-20 Humana Challenge (Brian Day) Jan. 24-27 Farmers Insurance Open (Tiger Woods) Jan. 31-Feb. 3 Waste Management Phoenix Open (Phil Mickelson) Feb. 7-10 AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am (Brandt Snedeker) Feb. 14-17 Northern Trust Open (John Merrick) Feb. 20-24 WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship (Matt Kuchar) Feb. 28-March 3 Honda Classic (Michael Thompson) March 7-10 WGC-Cadillac Championship (Tiger Woods) March 7-10 Puerto Rico Open (Scott Brown) March 14-17 Tampa Bay Championship (Kevin Streelman) March 21-24 Arnold Palmer Invitational (Tiger Woods) March 28-31 Shell Houston Open (D.A. Points) April 4-7 Valero Texas Open (Martin Laird) Sept. 12-15 BMW Championship, Conway Farms GC, Lake Forest, Ill. Sept. 19-22 Tour Championship, East Lake GC, Atlanta Oct. 3-6 Presidents Cup, Muirfield Village GC, Dublin, Ohio Oct. 10-13 Frys.com Open, CordeValle GC, San Martin, Calif. Oct. 17-20 Shriners Hospitals for Children Open, TPC Summerlin, Las Vegas Oct. 24-27 CIMB Classic, The MINES Resort & GC, Selangor, Malaysia Oct. 31-Nov. 3 WGC-HSBC Champions, Sheshan International GC, Shanghai Nov. 7-10 The McGladrey Classic, Sea Island Resort (Seaside), St. Simons Island, Ga. Nov. 14-17 OHL Classic at Mayakoba, El Camaleon GC, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Tiger Woods has climbed back to the top of the PGA Tour. Can he keep that going throughout the season? AP

Battle Creek Enquirer

GOLF GUIDE 2013

June 27-30 U.S. Womens Open, Sebonack GC, Southampton, N.Y. July 11-14 Manulife Financial LPGA Classic, Grey Silo Golf Course, Waterloo, Ontario July 18-21 Marathon Classic, Highland Meadows GC, Sylvania, Ohio Aug. 1-4 RICOH Womens British Open, The Old Course, St Andrews, Scotland Aug. 16-18 The Solheim Cup, Colorado GC, Parker, Colo. Aug. 22-25 CN Canadian Womens Open, Royal Mayfair GC, Edmonton, Alberta Aug. 29-Sept. 1 Portland Classic, course TBA, Portland, Ore. Sept. 12-15 The Evian Championship, The Evian Resort GC, Evian-les-Bains, France Oct. 3-6 Reignwood Pine Valley LPGA Classic, Pine Valley GC, Beijing Oct. 10-13 Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur G&CC, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Oct. 18-20 LPGA KEB-HanaBank Championship, Sky72 GC (Ocean Course), Incheon, South Korea Oct. 24-27 Sunrise LPGA Taiwan Championship, Sunrise G&CC, Yang Mei, Taiwan Nov. 8-10 Mizuno Classic, Kintetsu Kashikojima CC, Shima, Japan Nov. 14-17 Lorena Ochoa Invitational, Gualalajara CC, Guadalajara, Mexico Nov. 21-24 CME Group Titleholders, course TBA, Naples, Fla.

April 2013 21

PROFESSIONAL GOLF
LPGA Tour Schedule
Feb. 14-17 ISPS Handa Womens Australian Open (Jiyai Shin) Feb. 21-24 Honda LPGA Thailand (Inbee Park) Feb. 28-March 3 HSBC Womens Champions (Stacy Lewis) March 14-17 RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup (Stacy Lewis) March 21-24 Kia Classic (Beatriz Recari) April 4-7 Kraft Nabisco Championship (Inbee Park) April 17-20 LPGA LOTTE Championship, Ko Olina GC, Kapolei, Hawaii April 25-28 North Texas LPGA Shootout, Las Colinas CC, Irving, Texas May 2-5 Kingsmill Championship, Kingsmill Resort (River Course), Williamsburg, Va. May 16-19 Mobile Bay LPGA Classic, RTJ Jones Golf Trail (Magnolia Grove, Crossings Course), Birmingham, Ala. May 23-26 Pure Silk-Bahamas LPGA Classic, Ocean Club Golf Course, Paradise Island, Bahamas May 31-June 2 ShopRite LPGA Classic, Stockton Seaview Hotel and GC (Bay Course), Galloway, N.J. June 6-9 Wegmans LPGA Championship, Locust Hill CC, Pittsford, N.Y. June 21-23 Walmart NW Arkansas Championship, Pinnacle CC, Rogers, Ark.

Inbee Park celebrates by jumping in a water hazard with her caddie and others after winning the LPGA Kraft Nabisco Championship golf tournament earlier this month. AP

PROFESSIONAL GOLF
Champions Tour Schedule
Jan. 18-20 Mitsubishi Electric Championship (John Cook) Feb. 8-10 Allianz Championship (Rocco Mediate) Feb. 15-17 ACE Group Classic (Bernhard Langer) March 15-17 Toshiba Classic (David Frost) March 22-24 Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic (Michael Allen) April 19-21 Greater Gwinnett Championship, TPC Sugarloaf, Duluth, Ga. April 26-28 Liberty Mutual Insurance Legends of Golf, Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa, Savannah, Ga. May 3-5 Insperity Championship, The Woodlands CC (Tournament Course), The Woodlands, Texas May 23-26 Senior PGA Championship, Bellerive CC, St. Louis May 31-June 2 Principal Charity Classic, Wakonda Club, Des Moines, Iowa. June 6-9 Regions Tradition, Shoal Creek CC, Birmingham, Ala. June 21-23 Encompass Championship, North Shore CC, Glenview, Ill. July 27-30 Constellation Senior Players Championship, Fox Chapel GC, Pittsburgh July 11-14 Senior U.S. Open Pen, Omaha CC, Omaha, Neb. July 25-28 Senor British Open, Royal Birkdale, Southport, England Aug. 2-4 3M Championship, Twin Cities GC, Blaine, Minn. Aug. 16-18 Dicks Sporting Goods Open, En-Joie GC, Endicott, N.Y. Aug. 23-25 Boeing Classic, Snoqualmie Ridge, Snoqualmie, Wash. Aug. 30-Sept. 1 Calgary Golf Classic, Canyon Meadows G & CC, Calgary, Alberta Sept. 6-8 Montreal Championship, La Vallee du Richelieu Golf Club (Rouville Course), Montreal Sept. 20-22 Pacific Links Hawaii Championship, Kapolei GC, Kapolei, Hawaii Sept. 27-29 Nature Valley First Tee Open at Pebble Beach, Pebble Beach GL and Del Monte GC, Pebble Beach, Calif. Oct. 11-13 SAS Championship, Prestonwood CC, Cary, N.C. Oct. 18-20 Greater Hickory Classic at Rock Barn, Rock Barn, Conover, N.C. Oct. 25-27 AT&T Championship, TPC San Antonio (AT&T Canyons Course), San Antonio Oct. 31-Nov. 3 Charles Schwab Cup Championship, TPC Harding Park, San Francisco

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GOLF GUIDE 2013

Battle Creek Enquirer

First Tee back for 12th season

Director Van Der Heide also offers tips for kids on the driving range
Will Kowalski
The Enquirer

The First Tee of Battle Creek Learning Academy, part of the national First Tee program, incorporates golf instruction with the teaching of life skills for boys and girls ages 18-under. This is the 12th season for The First Tee program in Battle Creek (the program started in the Cereal City on June 24, 2001), and Steve Van Der Heide is now in his second full season as program executive director. The First Tee's building is located on the grounds of Binder Park Golf Course. Scholarship opportunities are available, as well as the free use of clubs for those youths in need of equipment -- and no applicant will be turned away. Sessions run throughout the spring

and summer (early May through early September), and The First Tee also provides on-location seminars and sessions to local and area schools year-round. The First Tee's annual free Open House -- featuring getting-acquaintedwith-golf instruction, face painting, fun, games and free hot dogs and beverages -is scheduled this year for Sunday, May 5 from noon to 3 p.m. Since 2001, The First Tee of Battle Creek has impacted more than 17,000 young people in the community through its life skills education curriculum and character training. Each of those individuals has been introduced to the lifelong sport of golf while also learning life skills such as goal setting, managing emotions and resolving conflicts. The First Tee program emphasizes Nine Core Values -- confidence, responsibility, respect, honesty, judgment, perseverance, sportsmanship, integrity and courtesy -- at every level of instruction. Since opening, The First Tee of Battle Creek has expanded its reach to include program locations and outreach to over a

dozen youth service organizations. Also, the Chapter has helped facilitate the launch of The First Tee School Program at over 20 elementary schools throughout the community, where students are now engaging in a structured golf and Life Skills curriculum. Also, several past and current students and mentors of The First Tee of B.C. have earned national awards, as well as college scholarships. The First Tee of B.C. is additionally in need of volunteers each season, and always is in need of donations of funds to help the program continue to touch as many local kids as possible in a positive manner, plus is yearly in need of equipment donations (used clubs of any size and make, which can be fitted for use by youths). Player, Par, Birdie and Eagle levels of instruction are offered for boys and girls again this season, with the levels depending on age and ability. Each session includes nine hours of instruction and in general the cost is $75 per student -- but again, financial aid is available to those

in need, and no youngster will be turned away. There are also Target Level (ages 5-6) and Tiny Tots (ages 3-4) programs available (with those programs involving fewer class hours and lower costs involved). Sessions include chipping, pitching, putting, irons, woods and the Nine Core Values. Youths ages 12 and over and qualify for First Tee league play as well. To inquire about dates and times of this year's sessions, contact program director Van Der Heide at The Fist Tee of B.C. at 979-6203 or see thefirstteebattlecreek.org.

ALSO FOR 2013

First Tee Adult/Junior Fun Nights are set for 4:30 p.m. on Saturdays April 27, May 18, June 22, July 27, Aug. 24 and Sept. 28. The first classes of 2013 begin Monday, May 6 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. ($75 per session). The First Tee Junior League will
See FIRST TEE, Page 23

Battle Creek Enquirer

GOLF GUIDE 2013

INSTRUCTION: When it comes to giving instruction, keep it simple. Resist the temptation to offer new pieces of information after each shot. Focus on one simple idea like balance or foot positions and just keep reinforcing that one idea. A kid's mind can learn new tricks a lot easier than we can with our poor swing habits and tendencies. The age old adage "old dogs can't learn new tricks'' is quite true. A kid's palette is fresh and new, and it won't take long to gain new skills. Also, adults in general are pretty intimidating to kids, so when you're teaching them how to do anything, get down to their level into a position where you can make eye contact with them. It might mean you'll get your knees dirty from time to time, but that's a trade worth making. OUT ON THE RANGE: Start your child out on the driving range where they can hit a lot of balls in a short period of time. Give them an opportunity to hit a golf ball without giving them your ideas on how it should be done. Just let them try it. When they get bored and aren't hitting balls any longer, it's time to go and get ice cream. It is important for them to associate a trip to the golf course as a fun experience and not one that is fun for a while but ends with them sitting on a bench watching mom or dad hit balls. UNDERSTAND THE GAME: Before playing on the course, and especially before playing in competitive situations, kids should know how to display etiquette on the golf course such as raking bunkers, repairing ball marks and standing quietly away while others are hitting shots. As the child gets older, basic rules like not grounding your club in a hazard, how to proceed when you lose a ball or what your options are when your ball goes in a water hazard or lands out of bounds should also be taught. GET OUT AND PLAY: Take them to a course and have them watch you play. Let them hit some shots, or even better, go out with your child and act as a caddie, letting your child be the boss and having the joy of being the center of attention -theyll love it. When it's time for them to play on their own make sure the length of the holes is such that they can get near the green with a couple of shots. The three practice holes at Binder Park Golf Course are a great place to introduce them to the course. If you don't have access to a short course or practice facility, having your child "tee off'' 100 yards from the green on each hole is an easy way to make this transition. THE SOCIAL SIDE OF GOLF: If your child shows a real interest in the game, signing them up for a junior golf program or summer camp is a great idea. The First Tee of Battle Creek hosts a wide variety of classes, clinics and playing opportunities throughout the spring, summer and fall where kids will learn basic technique, rules, etiquette and meet

April 2013 23

FIRST TEE
Continued from Page 22

take place at 2 p.m. Thursdays starting June 20 (cost is $8 per player). The First Tee's 10th Annual Golf FORE! Kids fundraiser, sponsored by Chili's and others, is Friday, June 28 starting at noon at Binder Park Golf Course (cost is $50 per player). First Tee Open Play Days, at 1:30 p.m., are Saturdays April 20, May 4, May 18, June 1, June 15, July 20, Aug. 3, Aug. 17, Sept. 7 and Sept. 21.

GETTING KIDS STARTED IN GOLF AND SPENDING TIME ON THE RANGE

The following information was provided by The First Tee of Battle Creek executive director Steve Van Der Heide: IT HAS TO BE FUN: Teaching kids how to golf requires a different approach than when teaching adults. First and foremost, no matter what age your child is when they get started, making sure that they are having fun is the No. 1priority. Whatever your aspirations may be for your child with golf, it is important to remember (and remind your child) that you're out there to have fun together. We all know that golf is difficult, and that can be the case even before you tee off. Be sure to celebrate with them every chance you get -- it's the small things they will remember. USE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT: There are a lot of great companies making quality junior sets, so do your child a favor and stay away from the cut-down adult clubs if possible. If you want to buy your children some clubs or have the grandparents foot the bill, make sure the clubs are the correct length and come with lightweight, flexible shafts. When it comes to looking for the right equipment, you can usually get a junior set that includes a stand bag and enough clubs for $80-$150. I personally would rather see a kid with a few clubs that are the right size and moderately priced versus a full set of expensive clubs that are too big or too small. Golf is a hard game to learn, and clubs that are not the right size can make it impossibly hard. It is very important that your child uses equipment suitable for them so they can swing the clubs with some control and power. WHERE TO START: At The First Tee, we highly recommend that kids be introduced to golf in a way that exposes them to the whole game. Spend some time on the practice putting green, as letting them roll a few putts into the hole will teach them what the game is about and having some early success will put a smile on their face. Furthermore, the short-game swing will set the groundwork for the full swing.

Youth golfers participate in a class at The First Tee of Battle Creek at Binder Park Golf Course. BILL BRODERICK/THE ENQUIRER

other children their own age. If a child is going to become a good player and enjoy the game, it is important that he or she has friends to play with. While parents or

grandparents are OK, having golfing buddies their age will go a long way toward keeping the game fun and engaging for the rest of their lives.

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GOLF GUIDE 2013

Battle Creek Enquirer