Welcome back to “Play Your Best golf”! I am thrilled to be back writing my weekly golf column for the readership of The Chestermere Anchor City News. I have joined the staff at Lakeside Greens as their CPGA Teaching Professional which includes Glenn Carr as the Director of Golf and Tom Lee as the Head Professional. It’s exciting to be a part of a team that together we represent and bring 90 years of Golf Professional experience to Lakeside Greens and the residents of Chestermere!
Each week I’ll be passing along tips on instruction, equipment insights, viewpoints and general commentary on the world of golf. Once again, the main component of the column will be to feature a local resident and an analysis of a lesson we do together which should also be of a benefit to you and your game. I’ll also be covering the local scene in and around Chestermere as well as the PGA Tour and possible travel destinations and getaways. As always, your feedback or questions are welcome!
What’s New at Lakeside Greens this Year
One of the biggest and most exciting changes at the club this year is in the clubhouse. Lakeside Greens had previously contracted out their food and beverage but this year they have taken it back which is great news. Under new Executive Chef and food and beverage manager, Jeff Lethbridge, the quality of food has gone way up and prices have come down. The public is welcome and encouraged to try out the menu and lounge. I’ve had the burger and fries…really good! (see pic). Golf courses, in general, are always great places to find quality food at reasonable prices…there’s my first golf tip of the year! The patio, overlooking the water featured 9th and 18th greens, has to be the most picturesque and relaxing deck in Chestermere. If you’ve never been to the club for a meal now is the time to give it a try, you won’t be disappointed.
Last year, Lakeside Greens offered a membership deal that truly was newsworthy for golf in our city. For $6,000 you receive a credit of $7500 in membership dues (nearly 3 years in dues) and an equity share for free. In the past, those shares have sold for as high as $20,000. Now I don’t expect to see that price again but once we see a turnaround in our economy along with the strong population growth in our community, those shares will have good value. This deal will last only for as long as the limited amount of shares remain available. I took advantage and bought my share last year as I don’t think there will ever be a better time to join the club. For more info give Glenn Carr a call at 403 569 9111 ext.209.
Why should I Play or Take up Golf?
Chestermere has seen huge growth in the past few years and it is my goal to help introduce new players to the game. One of the great benefits of golf is the fitness and exercise you receive. Some of you may laugh or find that hard to believe but after walking the 9/10 kilometers, pulling your clubs and a round of hitting the ball…you have had some serious exercise. If you must use a power cart, you still get a great day of exercise and fresh air. Even hitting a large bucket of balls at the range is a good workout. So, if you are looking to get fit and lose a few pounds perhaps golf is your answer. Other reasons people play golf is for the socialization and friendship, to relax and unwind, take on the challenge of the game and enjoy the beautiful scenery and manicured grounds. So, lots of great reasons to take up golf this year or remind yourself why you enjoy the game so much!
This Year’s Golf Lesson Programs
After many years of teaching students one of the things I have learned is how different we all are when it comes to learning and playing golf. We are of different sizes, ages, gender, flexibility, learning styles, personality and skill level. My teaching method is to take into consideration all of these differences and provide easy to understand instruction in a fun relaxed atmosphere. The learning curve goes way up when you are having fun and looking forward to instruction!
With the early start this year I have already started booking lessons and teaching. I am offering private, group, new to golf and junior lessons. Perhaps find a friend or two who would like to take lessons together which is always a fun time with refreshments afterwards. For more information and prices go to lakesidegreens.com and under “course” heading on home page you’ll find the lesson info. You can always email me if you have any questions or would like to get started.
I am looking forward to a great season of golf and helping you…play YOUR best golf!
Sandy Macdonald
Class “A” CPGA Teaching Professional
sandymacdonald@shaw.ca
