WAUSAU, Wis. (WAOW) – While most golf courses in the area have yet to open, Bullseye Golf in Wisconsin Rapids teed off their opening day last Sunday, hosting over 260 golfers in two days.
“We didn’t have winter kill this year to damage the grass or anything, so it was much easier to open up pretty quickly this year,” said Tanner Keel, Head Golf Professional at Bullseye Golf Club.
The course is unique in that it has more sand in its soil, allowing for easier drainage into the nearby Wisconsin River. Golfers at the course say the conditions were good for this time of year.
“It was nice and dry, not really any wet spots from what I saw. A bunch of deer, a bunch of geese out there. Again, just kind of nice to get out of the house,” said Josh Henneman, a golfer from Stanley Boyd.
In Wausau there is still snow on the ground, and no courses have opened yet. Local courses typically open in April, and remain hopeful they will open around then.
“There’s always excitement when the snow starts going and you’re about 90% clear. But the conditions aren’t conducive enough yet to warrant opening,” said Todd Clendenning from Tribute Golf Course.
Clendenning, who manages Trapp River and Tribute Golf Courses says that both of his courses wintered well and have no damage. In a weather controlled industry, being able to open early is huge.
“Anything that we get in March is just always an added bonus. Get people thinking about golf a lot earlier compared to usual,” said Keel.
The upcoming weather forecast will delay the season a little more, but golfers and courses can feel that peak season is on the way.
“Look forward to seeing everybody coming out soon,” said Clendenning.
You can find updates on course openings and closures on their social media accounts or course websites.