Letter to the Editor

Golf course priced itself out of major couples' tournament possibility

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Dear editor:

Spring is on the way and another golf season is here. Our course is taking shape and will again be a pleasure to enjoy.

Will it be another financial disaster or at least break even? Can our normal population base be enough to support it, or can we entice other communities to participate to ease the financial burden.

The answer is obvious. Whatever small steps that can be taken to increase participation would be of great benefit.

With that thought in mind, let me relate some ideas that were brought to the golf course the last two years.

I am a member of the Idaho Couples Golf Association. At present, our membership is at 300 plus. We hold golf tournaments across all of southern Idaho, including Utah and Nevada. At a typical 18-hole course, our attendance would be 65-70 couples. Over a two-day tournament, a good deal of revenue is realized by each of these courses. Along with that is the additional rewards to local motels and restaurants.

Our membership is extremely interested in adding this course to our yearly schedule.

An example of this schedule with fees being charged by other receptive courses was presented. Rather than encourage these outside couples to travel here, it was decided by whoever is responsible, to charge an excessive fee. Not only does this eliminate the possibility of this event, but also any future revenue to secondary facilities.

Many of these couples would also enjoy playing this course throughout the season.

If the financial condition is so bad, why can't we encourage outside individuals to come here?

Perhaps a more open-minded method is needed.

Marilyn Hauck