The Westlock Golf Course is gearing up for the season with plenty of public and club events on tap.
Golfers have already had the chance to shake off the winter rust at the driving range, which opened March 31, while the rest of the course is scheduled to open any day now.
“Usually the course is a week to 10 days behind the range,” said Westlock Golf Course CPGA head pro Kevin Lynes. “If we can be operational by Masters weekend (April 9-10) that would be a bonus.”
After a dry season in 2015, Lynes said crews are hopeful for better conditions this summer.
“We had a little trouble with our greens last year. We’ve de-winterized them and they look good going forward,” he said.
“We’re hoping for good golf conditions this year.”
As always the course will host a range of tournaments including the Senior’s Open, Men’s Open, Ladies Open and Club Championship.
“We always try and tweak the events to get more interest and participation from members, non-members and out-of-towners,” Lynes said.
“Hopefully our club events are well-attended.”
Lynes said he’s also hopeful to bolster participation in both men’s and ladies league play, which run on Tuesday and Monday nights, respectively.
“Members are welcome as well as non-members. A common misconception is you have to be members to play men’s league or ladies league,” Lynes said.
“You just purchase a punch card for the green fees instead of a membership.”
Aside from the regular events, the course will play host to the Western Canadian and Canadian Blind Golf Championships in July — something they’re excited to have.
“That’s a big deal for us here, we’re happy to be hosting that,” Lynes said.
It will also mark the third year since upgrading the RV lots to have full-service.
“Maybe with the price of the dollar not being the greatest people aren’t travelling abroad and will spend more time RVing and staying within the province,” Lynes said.
“People are using it more, which is good to see.”
For now, Lynes is eager to get the course open for the start of what they hope will be another successful season.
“I just hope on good weather, an early start and a long season,” he said.
