Unseasonably warm February weather brought golfers back to Saukie Golf Course, where players took advantage of 50-degree temperatures to shake off the winter rust.
ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — While the calendar still says February, golfers returned to Saukie Golf Course this week as temperatures climbed into the upper 50s, offering a rare mid-winter chance to get back on the greens.
The public course remains open during the winter months, though activity typically slows when colder weather settles in. Staff said this stretch of warmer temperatures has brought more players out than usual.
“We’ve had golfers a few times throughout the winter so far since we’ve been closed, but now that the weather is really warming up, we’re seeing a little more activity,” Rock Island Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Todd Winter said.
For many golfers, the appeal goes beyond the scorecard. After weeks indoors at the simulator, simply being outside is enough reason to tee off.
“We’re itching to be playing, so that’s why we’re out here when it’s cold. It’s great exercise,” Todd Schoonmaker said.
“Being outside in this beautiful weather, you can’t beat that in February,” Brad Flack said. “We’re chipping the rust off a little bit, piece by piece.”
Others say they rarely miss an opportunity to play, regardless of the season.
“I played 100 rounds last year, and at 88 [years old], that’s good enough for me,” Art Pohl said.
Course conditions are not yet at peak-season form. Staff encourage golfers to take precautions to protect the turf while the ground remains softer and more vulnerable.
“We try to keep people off the actual greens and tee boxes this time of year,” Winter said.
Even so, Friday’s turnout suggested that the official start of golf season may not be far away if warm weather continues.
“It’s fantastic. I think a lot of folks are chomping at the bit to get out anyway, so they’re gonna be doing some business here over the next few days,” Flack said.