Golf course still growing
HARMONY — One thing can be said for Strawberry Ridge Golf Course.
The place doesn’t stand pat.
“We’re always trying to make improvements on the course and add things for all levels and ages of golfers,” course owner Tim McNulty said.
Last year, Strawberry Ridge increased the length of hole No’s 3, 8, 16, 17 and 18 by a combined distance of more than 200 yards. This year, course workers are lengthening No.’s 1, 6, 10 and 12 by more than 150 combined yards.
“We’re looking to give the top-level golfers the option of making those holes more challenging,” McNulty said. “The changes add more than length. They provide additional obstacles as well.
“Our course has become more versatile. It can play a variety of different ways, depending on what tee box is used.”
McNulty said he takes pride in the fact that “no two holes are the same here.
“Every hole is unique and there is plenty of God-given scenery. Pin placements can make a two or three-club difference, too,” he said.
McNulty’s favorite hole is the No. 14, 292-yard hole “because it’s back in the woods, so far away from everything.”
More options will soon be available to golfers at Strawberry Ridge — off the actual 18-hole course.
Construction began on the “practice” range — offering opportunity to work on hitting balls out of the rough and chipping, along with a driving range — last year and that portion of the facility will be completed and open to the public in another month or so.
Work is also under way on constructing nine small greens in efforts to complete a small practice course for youngsters.
Those holes will range in length from 40 yards to 105.
“The 12-year-old who can hit a ball 175 yards will not be going out there,” McNulty said. “The target age range will be 5 to 8, kids who are learning the game and need a place to develop their skills.
“We plan to open a Little Chippers Golf League to enable them to compete against other kids their age at similar developmental stages. They can learn golf etiquette along the way.”
McNulty cautioned that the kids will have to learn putting on the practice putting green and hit some balls on the driving range before taking their game to the next stage, which will be the little nine-hole course.
“They will have to know the proper way to swing a club, at least have some fundamentals down before they can go on there and play,” he said. “The idea is to get the kids — many of them children of our regular golfers here — to learn the basics, practice and compete right here.”
Forming the Little Chippers Golf League will help the stability of the sport as well.
“The golf industry needs to motivate and encourage young kids coming into the game,” McNulty said.
Strawberry Ridge has 14 leagues this year — including three new ones — and requests golfers call for tee times. Pre-scheduling will not be needed for the practice facility.
Golf outings may be booked by calling 724-452-4022 or by visiting the course’s website at strawberryridgegolfcourse.com.
“We feel like we’ve got something here for everyone, from the 5-year-old to the old codger,” McNulty said.
