Minnesota National Golf Club & Resort (formerly Savannah Golf Course) - A Diamond in the Rough
Who would have thought that putting more holes in the ground—for a little white ball to fall into—could cause such a ruckus? While that statement is an obvious oversimplification of the issue, for many, that’s what it boils down to. On one hand are citizens concerned about the project’s impact on wetlands, wildlife habitat, and the environment. On the other is the owner—confident that every effort is being made to preserve as much of the natural landscape as possible while expanding the facility.
Savanna is located north and west of McGregor, off Highway 232. For many years, it has been a basic nine-hole course—nothing flashy or remarkable, except for its magnificent scenery.
The Dream...
Enter JoAnne and Wayne Alden. Wayne, who grew up in Palisade, has always loved the area. Over their 34 years of marriage, JoAnne—a native of Montana—has spent much of that time here with their daughters.
“This is something he’s always wanted to do,” JoAnne explained. “It’s a dream of his.”
Because of his connection to the area, Wayne’s vision was not only personal but also community-minded. “We think this is the project that will draw people here,” JoAnne added.
The couple purchased the 591-acre site in 1992. The property is owned by JoAnne M. Alden, who also serves as president of Savanna Golf & Supper Club, Inc. (now known as Minnesota National Golf Course). A farm on the northeastern corner of the property—referred to as the Smith farm—was also acquired.
About five years ago, expansion plans began. Working with an architect and a wetland engineer, the Aldens designed a 27-hole course, along with residential housing units and a marina slip on Flowage Lake for mooring boats.
A Question of Development...
Is it wise to alter the natural environment and fill wetlands for a golf course?
In an article titled “Keeping the GREEN in Lake Country’s Golf Scene,” written by Mike Rahn for the Lake Country Journal (May/June issue), this very question is explored.
“Is a golf course perhaps more desirable than converting the land to home sites?” asks Lonnie Thomas, a Minnesota DNR hydrologist. “Development is going to happen here. At least, as a golf course, it remains open, green space.”
Thomas notes that golf courses can be designed to be environmentally responsible. The Audubon Society, for example, offers a designation for courses that incorporate natural vegetation buffers, minimize runoff, and strive to reduce environmental impact.
Savanna plans to pursue this designation, which would require adherence to strict guidelines regarding chemical use and habitat preservation. In that context, concerns about eagle nests have also been raised. While none are currently known on-site, Savanna has stated it will take care to avoid disturbing any discovered nesting areas, as well as migratory bird routes and habitats.
Savanna Golf has enlisted Curtis Sparks, P.E., of North American Wetland Engineering, to assist with the project. According to Sparks, Aitkin County enforces a 1:1 wetland replacement policy—meaning that for every acre of wetlands impacted, one acre must be created.
The Savanna site includes approximately 265 to 280 acres of wetlands, of which only 5.61 acres will be directly affected.
“The Wetland Conservation Act is very strict,” Sparks noted in a telephone interview, adding that he considers himself an environmentalist. He believes the project exceeds requirements, as Savanna plans to create 12 acres of wetlands—more than double what is required.
Additionally, approximately 14 ponds will be constructed for the course. These do not count toward wetland replacement credits and are separate from the 12 acres of mitigation.
Through reflooding previously drained wetlands, creating new ponds, and developing mitigation areas, the Savanna project aims to more than meet environmental standards.
Balancing Development and Impact...
What about other aspects of the development, such as residential housing?
Today, golf courses are rarely built without some form of housing component, as it helps ensure financial sustainability. Condominiums, townhomes, and similar developments provide ongoing revenue to support course operations.
At Savanna, some residents have expressed concern about how these units might affect Flowage Lake. In Aitkin County, the standard setback for residential development is 150 feet from the high-water mark. However, the proposed building sites are located well beyond that—approximately 1,000 feet or more away—on a ridge overlooking the lake.
Nearby stands of virgin pine and other natural features will remain untouched, though they will become more visible as part of the course landscape.
The proposed marina slips have also drawn attention. In 1981, previous owners received a permit to construct a marina at the southwestern end of the property, and dredging was completed at that time.
The current plan includes up to 100 boat slips, though that number reflects full project completion.
“The project will be done in four phases,” Alden explained. “The first phase alone could take up to five years.”
She also noted that it is unlikely all 100 boats would be present at the same time.
Sparks offered additional perspective: “The marina would affect approximately 200 feet of shoreline.” By comparison, if the land were divided into 18 individual lakefront lots—as property owners are legally entitled to do—between 2,700 and 3,200 feet of shoreline could be impacted.
In that light, the proposed marina’s footprint appears relatively minimal.
Jumping Through the Hoops...
With multiple permits required, the project has undergone intense scrutiny. Agencies ranging from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to the Historical Society have carefully reviewed the plans.
The design has been revised repeatedly—so often, in fact, that updated maps can barely keep pace.
The goal, according to project leaders, is not to force the environment to fit the course, but to design the course to fit the environment—so that, when complete, it appears as though it has always been there.
This philosophy reflects a broader trend in modern golf course design, where environmental considerations are increasingly central.
Golf course manager and professional Kent Baril commented:
“I helped build another course in the area where, in less than 12 months, they had finished the permit process and were already building. This process has been going on for almost five years...”
He added that regulations have become significantly more rigorous, requiring approval from numerous agencies and legal bodies before construction can begin.
“Every detail will be checked beforehand,” he said.
A Question of Mitigation...
Some public concern has focused on Darryl Bruggman’s alleged involvement in the project, with suggestions of a possible conflict of interest.
Curtis Sparks addressed this during a phone interview:
“I was standing along the road, looking at property for possible wetland mitigation, when someone stopped,” he said. That individual turned out to be Bruggman.
Although the two had seen each other before, they had never formally met. Sparks suggested using Bruggman’s hunting property as a mitigation site.
According to Sparks, Bruggman will receive no financial compensation.
“All I want is the wetland,” Bruggman reportedly told him.
The Diamond...
Savanna’s expansion aims to attract visitors, create jobs, and stimulate the local economy. In an area that has long faced economic challenges, the project may indeed represent a diamond in the rough.
But the central question remains: must natural environments be compromised to achieve economic growth?
Returning to Mike Rahn’s article in the Lake Country Journal, he writes:
“…there is a real sense that the golf community has a desire to be a positive force—a part of the solution rather than a part of the problem. In an area like ours—dependent on a strong environmental image—nothing less will do.”
Amen.
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More Articles about our Community Cornerstone: Minnesota National Golf Course (formerly Savanna Golf Course)
2009 - Boyd wins club championship
September 8, 2009 • Voyageur Press
Minnesota National Golf Club held its annual club championship. Winners included Chuck Boyd (championship flight); Paula Garrett (ladies); Kevin Berg (first flight); Don Effertz (second flight); and Harlan Paulseth (third flight).
It was a case of the steady old veteran schooling the young newcomer during the Minnesota National Club Championship on Sunday, August 30.
Chuck Boyd defeated Josh Wahlin 7-6 in match play to claim the club championship. Chuck took command early and never looked back, and the match was over after the 12th hole.
According to Chuck’s opponent Josh Wahin, it was his putting that made the difference. “He had 14 putts after 12 holes,” said Wahlin. “That’s incredible.”
The outstanding putting display began on #2. Chuck made a nice putt to save par and won the hole. He won hole #5 after Josh went into the woods.
It was a nice drive by Chuck on hole #7 that helped him pick up another win, and Josh went into the bunker on hole #11.
After Chuck hit an amazing putt on #12, Josh knew it wasn’t his day to win the club championship. Chuck agreed that he felt good putting on Sunday. “I’ve actually been solid off the tee and putting,” said Chuck. “It is my middle game that could use some improvement.”
Chuck didn’t need the short game, and he won the championship for the first time since 2006. The past two years went to Ken Vraa who did not participate this year because of an injury.
The championship flight has four golfers. On Saturday, Chuck defeated Sam Moose and Josh defeated Mike Harrison.
Moose edges Harrison for third
The third-place game had a little more drama. Sam Moose and Mike Harrison battled back and forth until the 17th hole.
Mike started out with the hot hand. He birdied hole #1 and took advantage of a 3-putt by Sam on number two.
Sam bounced back by winning hole #4, and the two would see-saw back and forth until they reached the back nine. Sam won hole #10, but it was hole #14 where he really started to play well. Starting with #14, Sam won the next four holes. On #15 Sam hit a beautiful tee shot to the green and was within five feet of the hole. Meanwhile Mike found himself in the woods for the second hole in a row.
The two golfers were tied going into #16, and Sam picked up another win. Sam was in the driver’s seat going into hole #17, but his tee shot went right into the woods. Mike followed with an identical shot. Both recovered nicely, but Mike 3-putted and Sam came away with the 2-1 victory.
In the ladies tournament, Paula Garrett (69) placed first, followed by Shirley Winegar (71) in second.
In the First Flight for men, Kevin Berg won with a 76; Second Flight – Don Effertz (74); Third Flight - Harlan Paulsen (70).
2009 - Minnesota National Golf Course opened this past Saturday
April 28, 2009 • Voyageur Press
This past Saturday, April 25, Minnesota National Golf Course along with the new clubhouse, “the Gatehouse” officially opened for play.
Saturday turned out to be an excellent day to get out and golf, and a few local residents took time to get in a few rounds.
Bob DeRusha, a resident of Lake Minnewawa, and his friend Matt Jarvi (Cloquet), played a round on the Championship 18.
According to Minnesota National Golf Course Pro Kent Baril, the course is in good shape, but they could use some rain. Kent got his wish on Sunday. Kent also talked about the new format for Men’s League play this year. Kent formed what is called the Men’s Club, which is a golf league format that promotes more camaraderie within the group. “Each week there will be different player pairings and events,” said Kent. “Golfers are encouraged to invite guests to any of the events.”
The schedule for the season will comprise a wide variety of formats, and prizes will be paid out in golf shop credits. Also, specials will be offered in the bar and restaurant on Men’s Club days.
According to Kent, the Men’s Club will begin on Thursday, May 7, and play will take place over a 20-week period, ending on September 24. An open meeting for interested players is scheduled for Thursday, April 30, at 3:30 p.m.
The Ladies League opener is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, at 9:00 a.m. Play will take place on the Par 33 course.
For those who haven’t had the chance to see the new clubhouse (the Gatehouse) at Minnesota National, it is well worth the visit. The clubhouse was built similar to the grand and historic North Shore lodges. The Gatehouse is arranged around an impressive log-framed Great Hall and soaring fireplace. The fireplace was built by local contractor Bill Dean (Dean Masonry & Concrete).
According to Minnesota National owners Joan and Wayne Alden, the Gatehouse will be much more than simply the headquarters for your golfing experience. “Our experienced staff will help you plan and host your special events,” said Wayne. “To make reservations at the gatehouse, contact Jackie Dilley at fjackie.d@mnnationalgolfcourse.com.”
This past weekend, the McGregor Prom was held at the Gatehouse. Reports are that the kids had a great time.
2008 - Steady play from tee to green
September 23, 2008 • Voyageur Press
Ken Vraa came away with a one-stroke win over Josh Wahlin on the 18th
hole to claim his second consecutive Minnesota National Club Championship
Minnesota National Golf Course hosted its annual Club Championship over the weekend of September 6th. The two-day matchplay event had a good turnout, and club pro Kent Buril was pleased with the turnout. “We had enough golfers to break the tournament up into several flights. It would be nice to have a little better participation, but we’ve got a good group.”
Following the format of previous years, the championship was determined by matchplay, eighteen holes for the championship and first flights, nine holes for the remaining flights.
While the first round was played under ideal conditions, the second round was conducted under dark skies and much more unfriendly weather. Gusty, cold winds and varying amounts of rain ruled the day.
The rain and wind proved to be major hurdles to overcome. Championship flight golfer Ken Vraa agreed, “It was a bit of a battle with the elements today. It’s tough to focus on the game when the weather is such a big factor.”
The windy, wet and cold conditions resulted in three pairs of competitors agreeing to share the prize instead of contesting it on the course in inhospitable conditions.
In addition to the weather, the tight battle for the men’s championship flight provided a nice bit of drama.
Josh Wahlin and Ken Vraa played even for most of the match until Ken took a one-up lead on the 16th hole. With only two holes left to play and down one, according to Ken, “Josh played a great golf shot to the left side of the green.”
When Ken failed to match, Josh took the 17th and the pair headed to the last hole all square.
On the determining hole, Josh put his tee shot into some trouble, and his approach to the green was blocked. “I tried to groove one down the middle, and I hooked it just into the woods.”
Ken, as was his manner for the entire weekend, played a more controlled game. “Ken hit his tee shot down the center and put his approach just in front of the green. Just real steady golf,” Josh explained.
That reliable play proved to be the deciding factor in the match. Ken’s par gave him a one-stroke win on the 18th hole and a one-up victory in the match to claim his second consecutive Minnesota National Club Championship.
Both players enjoyed the final match and described the difference to be Ken’s, “Steady play from tee to green.”
Men’s Results
Championship Flight: 1st - Ken Vraa; 2nd - Josh Wahlin; 3rd - Chuck Boyd; 4th - Mark Bohn
First Flight: 1st - Dave Hoover; 2nd - Jerry Honkala; 3rd - Walt Seiler; 4th - Skip Sneen
Second Flight: 1st - Jerry Fjerstad; 2nd - Rick Norrgard; 3rd - Bob Johnson; Consolation Champion - Doug Prell
Third Flight: 1st - Jerry Feucht; 2nd - Kim Risen; 3rd - Don Woolf / Scott McLaughlin; Consolation Champion - Charlie Weyand
Fourth Flight: 1st - Lloyd Gath; 2nd - Bob Norrgard; 3rd - Lowell Edlund; Consolation Champions - Al Norman / Jim Carlson
Women’s Results
First Flight: 1st - Ann Carlson; 2nd - Diane Norrgard; 3rd - Karen Honkala; Consolation Champion - Paula Garrett
Second Flight: 1st - Marlys Olson; 2nd - Cheryl Jurek; 3rd - Mary Weyand; Consolation Champions - Lucy Young / Carol Holten
2008 - Eagle on the final hole
July 8, 2008 • Voyageur Press
The tenth annual McGregor Area Chamber of Commerce Let’s Go Golfing Tournament and Fun Raiser was held on Sunday, June 26, at Minnesota National Golf Course. Winning this year’s event was the Presto Graphic team of Nick Ostman, Dave Jezierski, Dennis Richardson, and John Knoop. “It was a very successful fund-raiser!” said Chamber of Commerce Coordinator Rachel Besser. “Thirteen teams played.”
The excellent round of golf by Presto Graphics was a 13-under 59. “We played pretty well,” Dennis Richardson said after the round. “We recorded an eagle on the final hole.”
Dennis also commented on the team’s approach to #7. “We all teed off from the Blues on #7,” he said. “If you can carry 230 yards, it is an easier hole.” The team used Nick’s drive and Dennis’ approach, before Dave Jezierski knocked in the putt for a birdie.
In second place was the team of Lon Burr, Pat Smith, Harley Exstad and Harvey Exstad. They scored a 62.
Prizes were also given to the median score (100) and the low score (140). The median score team was Jim and Diane Gondek and Bob and Beth Johnson. The low score was a tie by the team of Shirley Winegar, Jeanne Raushel, Debbie Miller and Steven Winegar and the team of Cindy and Lance Gray, Chris Bergman and Tom Peterson.
Individual prizes: winning wind shirts for the longest drive, Jim Price Sr. (men), Diane Gondek (women); winning ball retrievers for closest to the pin, Presto Graphics, Mary Lindgren (women); Longest Putt: Shirley Winegar (women); winning chairs for Closest to the Chair, Dennis Haugen (men), Kathy Wood (women); winning green keepers for Closest to the Line, Harley Exsted (men), Shirley Winegar (women); winning coolers for Closest to the Cooler, Dan Borseth (men), Lisa Kruse (women).
A concern was raised about the date of the event. According to Rachel, this year’s event was moved from a Friday to a Sunday because in the past local business owners expressed an interest in taking part. “The board discussed this and decided to move it to a Sunday and move it to earlier in the year than our usual August date,” concluded Rachel.
2008 - Par “33” open to the public
July 1, 2008 • Voyageur Press
Friday, June 20, was the kind of day that Minnesota golfers dream about – blue skies punctuated with cotton puff clouds, warm yet not hot or humid, and a light breeze sufficient to cool your face yet slight enough to not affect your golf shots. Minnesota National couldn’t have asked for a better day to celebrate the Grand Opening of its Par 33 course.
Judging by the fine crowd attending the event, it was clear that many folks were of the same opinion. A quick glance from the pro shop revealed two small groups of people working on their short game at the chipping green and practice bunker while no fewer than six (including two youngsters) were honing their form on the beautiful practice green. Looking down the hill in front of the new clubhouse, the expanse of freshly mown grass sported gleaming yellow range balls, and more could be seen sprouting like dandelions around the feet of golfers enjoying the newly opened driving range. Everywhere one looked around the porch, bar or restaurant there were smiling faces enjoying the day and the ever-expanding facilities of Minnesota National.
“We’ve been busy with the Par 33 Grand Opening events,” commented resident golf pro, Kent Burrell. “The weather has made a huge difference compared to May’s Grand Opening event.”
Running over much of the former Savanna Golf Club’s course, all of the tee boxes and fairways have been replanted with Kentucky Blue grass. A sturdy grass that doesn’t require as much pampering as Bent Grass, the blue-grass hybrid is a huge step up from the familiar fairways of the old course. It is the greens, however, that have seen the biggest improvement. The old surface, composed mostly of Poa Annua, has been replaced with bent grass.
“Bent grass is such a better putting surface,” declared Burrell. “These greens are a much truer rolling surface.”
Many people hear the words “Executive Course,” and assume that the Par 33 course is a boring course with nothing to interest an experienced golfer. While that may be the case at other courses, those statements clearly do not apply to Minnesota National’s new Executive Course.
Cut from the same woods as the stately Championship Course, the Par 33 nine features elevation changes, fairways cutting through green woodlands – a golf course laid atop a pristine natural setting where there is always a beautiful view – and tee boxes that allow golfers of all abilities to enjoy a test of the golf skills. “It’s a really nice course,” offered local golfer Dave Hoover. “It was definitely more of a challenge than I expected.”
Dave’s opinion was a commonly shared one among those attending the Grand Opening celebration. “It’s not a simple course” and “It offers a challenge” were two opinions repeatedly overheard. Telling commentary that echoed Kent Burrell’s statements of a day earlier, “This is not an easy course. It will offer a challenge to golfers of all abilities. It’s not designed just for high handicappers. Everyone will find something to enjoy if they play from the proper tees.”
Several golfers were asked to name their favorite hole of the new nine. Nearly every hole received votes, but holes numbers six and eight received the most votes. Number six, this reporter’s favorite, is a shorter, dog-leg right that plays to a green surrounded by water – except for a narrow apron fronting the green. Your impression as you stand over your second shot is that your approach is to an island green. It’s a scenic hole that will play easily for most golfers, provided you put your tee shot in the correct location. If you find yourself too far right, your approach will be to a narrow green over water. Too far left and you’ll have a long approach to a green with water on three sides. Luckily, most golfers will reach the green with two well-placed shots, and they’ll be free to admire the view of the course and woodlands from the elevated fairway.
The Par 33 course was not the only part of Minnesota National to celebrate a Grand Opening on Friday. The driving range facility, complete with faux green targets planted with brightly colored flags to indicate distance from the practice tee, provides a picture-perfect setting to prepare for your round of golf or for a golf lesson.
“The driving range is nearly complete,” explained Kent. “We’ll be placing nets at the end of the range and between the woods to the west. There will also be a private tee box tucked away on a corner of the range for an intimate setting for golf lessons.”
This reporter found the secluded lesson tee to be a prophetic peek into a golfer’s psyche. You can get a lesson and work on improving the self-confidence in your golf game in confidence. “People can take a lesson and work on their swing without feeling like everyone is watching,” revealed Kent.
Hot on the heels of the Par 33’s Grand Opening on Friday was its role as host of its first event on Sunday. The McGregor Lions Club held its annual scramble golf tournament on the newly opened nine, and all who attended were impressed with the course.
“It’s the kind of course that makes you want to come back and play again. “You just know you can do better the second time around,“ declared one participant.
In addition to the many golfers enjoying the Par 33 Grand Opening, a number of people were on the course as part of a new, cooperative “Play and Stay” package arrangement between Big Sandy Lodge & Resort and Minnesota National. The packages, including lodging, breakfast and golf, have been bringing new visitors to Minnesota National and the McGregor area. One group encountered enjoying a post-round drink, raved about the course. “I was really surprised by the course. It’s a beautiful setting, and the risk/reward shot offerings are a lot of fun,” declared Kevin Jullie of Rogers. “We can’t wait to come back.”
With the May opening of the front nine holes of Minnesota National’s Championship Course and the June opening of the Par 33 Executive Course and driving range, what’s next for Minnesota National? – a summer filled with golfing events and tournaments, the fun of learning the ins-and-outs of 2008’s new holes, the sight of new friends enjoying our local gem of a golf course for the first time, and everyone is looking forward to the grand opening of the impressive clubhouse overlooking the course.
2008 - Minnesota National Opens Another 9
May 13, 2008 • Voyageur Press
Minnesota National Golf Course owners Wayne and Joanne Alden hold Grand
Opening for the Championship 18
An event that’s been eagerly anticipated finally arrived this week and our long wait is over! No, it’s not about the snow and ice FINALLY disappearing from the landscape, it’s the grand opening of Minnesota National’s Championship Course this past Thursday and Friday.
While blustery weather may have ruled, no amount of wind, rain or cold conditions could remove the smiles of those attending the celebration. Golfers and community members who visited were treated to fine hospitality, an exciting round of golf, and a nice selection of hot and cold hors d'oeuvres.
The biggest smile of the day certainly belonged to Minnesota National owner Wayne Alden. On hand to greet each group as they arrived at the course, he also guided groups on personal tours of the new clubhouse under construction.
The clubhouse dominates the entrance to the course. The massive log frame of the great hall soars more than 40 feet into the sky (from its crown, workers are able to see McGregor, Palisade and Hill City!), and the view from inside is no less impressive. Built in the style of Minnesota’s historic lodges, the log, stone and wood finished Gatehouse has an abundance of amenities. When completed, visitors to the immense clubhouse will enjoy a large meeting room, convention center, restaurant, Irish pub, lounging areas, pro-shop, game room, business center, fitness center, male and female locker rooms and a clubroom. Attached to the clubhouse will be a 9,000 square foot pool building housing the swimming pool, Jacuzzi and sauna.
While one might wander through the construction zone dreaming of what the finished clubhouse will look like, there is no need to wonder how the course itself will appear – all the holes are just waiting for winter’s spell to loosen its grip.
With the completion of the front nine holes, the championship course is now open in its entirety. Measuring 7,230 yards, featuring bent grass fairways and greens, the course has five tee boxes to accommodate all levels of players (the executive course featuring junior tees for families, children or anyone enjoying a less demanding round of golf will open this summer).
As one might expect with an entirely new nine holes to play for the first time, learning the best strategy for each hole is going to take members and visitors alike a bit of time and practice.
The more accomplished golfers I spoke with raved about the long, dog-leg right, par five fifth hole. Rated the most difficult hole on the course, the fifth has loads of “risk-reward” options for you to choose from.
The only necessity here is a critical look at your own golf game – the shortest route has a carry of 229 yards over a marsh. For those with steady nerves, the alternate route to the left allows you to cut as much of the corner as you feel comfortable attempting. Those who are successful will have a beautiful uphill view of the green for your second shot. Those who are not will be hitting three from behind the marsh.
“This is our first time seeing these holes,” declared members Mike and Lisa Kruse, “but it’s a lot of fun getting to know the new nine.”
They proved to be quick learners. Playing the front nine a second time, Mike chose to follow another group's lead and play his first hole tee shot to the right of the pond fronting the tee box (down the old number three fairway). Unfortunately for Mike and anyone choosing to shorten the par five in this manner, course designer Joel Goldstrand, who was watching nearby, informed the group that the right side will be posted out of bounds.
Speaking with Mr. Goldstrand during a break in play, he was asked about the condition of the course coming out of winter and how it felt to see the course he diagrammed opening for its first rounds.
After a thoughtful pause, he pointed out how well the turf looked, particularly the greens on the back nine holes. However, his passion was certainly kindled by the course itself.
“As the course grows in and matures, this will be one of the best golf courses in the Midwest,” he stated firmly. As one admired the woods, terrain and scenic views in between shots or holes, one could not help but agree.
Lynnette Maas echoed Joel’s enthusiasm for the course, particularly the par threes, “My favorite hole was number three. I hit it just over the marsh, and the ball carried perfectly for me.”
Lynnette’s appreciation for the hole is a mystery. Was it the secluded feel, surrounded by woods and marsh with a beautiful approach, or the fact she placed her very first tee shot at number three on the green just below the hole?
Golf wasn’t the only item garnering attention from participants. As one might expect from a course sculpted from the northwoods, nature is all around. We saw Bald Eagles flying over the flowage, porcupines waddling across the fairways, and frogs trilling from the wetlands.
My wife, Cindy, and I couldn’t help noticing the beautiful spruce bog bordering number four filled with labrador tea plants that will soon be in bloom. I’m certain that a number of orchid species can be found there as well, and later this month I’ll be spending my waiting time on the tee box looking for lady-slippers and tway-blades.
What’s the next big occasion on the horizon for Minnesota National?
It’s difficult to choose. In a landmark summer for Minnesota National, one chock-full of milestone events, people enjoying the Grand Opening voiced many opinions. It became obvious after speaking with several groups that the most anticipated are the completion of that amazing clubhouse sometime in July and the opening of the Executive Nine course as soon as the turf allows.
2007 - Vraa and Norgaard are Minnesota National Club Champions
September 18, 2007 • Voyageur Press
This is the second year for the Minnesota National Club Championship. The golf tournament featured a Men’s Championship flight along with five other flights and one ladies flight.
This year’s club champions are Ken Vraa for the men and Diane Norgaard for the women. “I putted very well and my short irons were very accurate,” said Ken. “The course played long and it was soft. The ball was rolling nice on the greens.”
Diane said she was lucky. “Ann (Carlson) was playing very well until she put two in the water on hole 17,” said Diane.
Nevertheless, both players played well and won their first Club Championship.
Ken was one of four men who played in the championship flight. He was the fourth seed based on handicap and went up against the #1 seed and defending champion, Chuck Boyd, in match play. Norm Koran and Dave Lindberg were on the other side of the bracket.
Ken shared that he got off to a great start in his first match against Chuck. “I won the first hole (#10) and hit a 9-foot putt on the second hole (#11) to tie. I won the third, Chuck won the fifth, and I won the sixth.”
Both golfers continued to play well, and Ken felt that #18 was a significant point in the match. “I sunk a 12-putt on that hole and won because I got a stroke because of handicap on that hole.”
At that point, Ken was four up after nine holes. Ken continued his strong short game and won the match 5 and 4. Which means he was up five strokes with four holes to play.
Ken went on to defeat Norm Koran in the championship 4 and 3. Key holes included #14 and #10. “I hit a 7-wood to the 150 marker and a 3/4 pitching wedge below the cup,” said Ken. “I sunk a 10-footer for birdie.”
On hole 10, Ken parred both times around.
Diane Norgaard won the women’s title with a 69. Diane felt she got a little lucky but really had a lot of fun. Diane’s best hole was number 16. “I was on the green in three and sunk a six-foot putt,” she said. “I parred and I was happy about that.”
Nancy Seiler took second with a 72, followed by Ann Carlson in third with a 73. Cheryl Jurek and Shirley Winegar tied for fourth with a 76.
2007 - It’s Going to be Awesome
September 18, 2007 • Voyageur Press
By summer of 2008, Minnesota National Golf Course north of McGregor will rival the best in the state, and its impressive “Gatehouse” clubhouse will capture the essence of the grand and historic North Shore lodges
“It’s going to be awesome,” Wayne Alden said.
Wayne and his wife Johanne are co-owners of the Minnesota National Golf Course and Settlers Ridge development north of McGregor, which is going through the final stages of a huge project and is set to open by early summer of 2008.
Wayne grew up in Palisade and now is sharing his and his wife’s success by developing the golf course into a beautiful community. Renowned golf course designer Joel Goldstrand is the brain behind the 7,200-yard, bent grass 18-hole championship course, which has five tee boxes for all skill levels. In addition to the championship course, a 2,600-yard, nine-hole executive bluegrass course will feature junior tees for families and those interested in a quicker, less challenging day at the links. “It is truly going to be a world class golf course––the best golf course in Minnesota,” Wayne said.
He also noted that from the back tees, the executive course is actually longer than the front nine of the championship course. That, according to Wayne, offers great golf for all skill levels.
One of the unique features of the executive and championship courses is the five tee-boxes. They’re located at a broad range of shot angles, which will allow individual golfers to choose their own level of play. “It’s going to be really fun for golfers,” Wayne said.
Even though the course challenges golfers with some very long tee shots from the back tees, Wayne said Joel Goldstrand designed it to play differently. “He has designed over 100 golf courses,” Wayne said. “The big boomer doesn’t win this course. It’s a thinking man’s course,” he added.
Picking the appropriate club for the appropriate shot, according to Wayne, is how people will succeed on the course.
Before the executive nine hole course is finished, the golf course already has over five miles of paved cart path. Add the executive course, and golfers will be racking up the miles on their GPS guided golf carts. The 27-hole course is tucked inside a pristine environment of marshes and towering red and white pines and will wind in, out and around the magnificent natural habitat of the 640 acres of Flowage property.
Settlers Ridge, which is the first gated vacation community to be built in Minnesota, is a project that will put 300 townhomes along the 27-hole course. “The homes will be far off the fairways in order to maintain the natural beauty of the environment,” Wayne said.
An environmental architect was hired to design the homes on the course so that they blend into the natural habitat, making the golf course and nature the feature experience to golfers.
Settlers Ridge will be an all-inclusive private property development offering a community center, 24 private boat slips on the flowage (which has access to 10,000 acres of water), a 2,000-year-old historic settlement preserve (which is what Settlers Ridge is named after) with access to miles of natural trails and the golf course clubhouse.
The giant 27,000 square-foot clubhouse complex called the Gatehouse is designed to capture the essence of the grand and historic North Shore lodges and is arranged around an impressive log-framed Great Hall and a huge 12-foot-wide and 7-foot-deep fireplace. Local resident Troy Johnson is president of Fairway Custom Homes and is currently constructing the Gatehouse. It will include fine and casual dining with large dining decks overlooking the course, two indoor event centers, a private club room, and an outdoor event center with a BBQ and a bar and a fully stocked Pro Shop. For club members there will be men’s and women’s locker areas with showers and a sauna. Next to the clubhouse will be a landscaped 75-foot collegiate indoor pool area with a kids water park and hot tub.
The nature trails provide the Settlers Ridge community miles of scenic walkways and bird watching territory. Scattered along the miles of trails are rest spots where picnic tables and benches are placed about every two blocks. The tables have some local significance also. Local artist Marlene Kingsley of Palisade has printed animal tracks native to the area on the tops of the tables and benches. Burnt into the wood are the tracks and the name of the animal from which they come. This feature gives the everyday guest the ability to identify the animals that make Aitkin County unique and a destination point to tourists and local outdoor enthusiasts.
Also included in the development is a massive maintenance garage and maintenance department. Jason Mel is the Maintenance Supervisor and designed the garage for two main purposes. The first half of the building is designed to facilitate the maintenance needs of the equipment for the golf course. The other half is solely for the gated community’s needs. On both ends of the building, mechanics will do all the work needed. Sharpening lawn mower blades, changing oil, and repairing equipment are just a few of their duties.
The building will also house the workers. Bedrooms with bathroom facilities and kitchenettes are designed to give the workers a convenient place to live while working seasonally for the golf course and Settlers Ridge.
The scope of the development and the projected finished product that will be Minnesota National Golf Course and Settlers Ridge is hard to comprehend, but after a tour of the course and some descriptions from Wayne, it is easy to see why he and the team he has around him are very excited. “People are going to come from all over to play golf and to live here,” Wayne said. “It’s going to be awesome.”
2007 - Fjerstad shoots hole-in-one
August 21, 2007 • Voyageur Press
Jerry Fjerstad’s response to a hole-in-one he shot recently at the Minnesota National Golf Course was a humble one. As he said, “Even a blind hog can find a corn cob.”
Jerry Fjerstad of Rat Lake, Minnesota, has been golfing for 25 years all over the United States. Now, after witnessing a couple, he has shot his first hole-in-one Friday, August 10, while golfing in a men’s league at the Minnesota National Golf Course north of McGregor. “It’s just a shot,” Jerry said.
Jerry’s complacent attitude with the feat comes from his outlook on life. After experiencing a bad snowmobile accident on Lake Minnewawa in 1995 and a stroke where he has lost some sight in his left eye, Jerry looks at the ace as a bonus. “I’m the luckiest guy in the world,” he said. “I am so blessed for what happened to me and to be able to go out and do this.”
Jerry explained that with all of his physical limitations, he struggles walking a golf course. “I can probably walk one hole,” he said.
Despite Jerry’s struggles, he enjoys swinging the clubs with his buddies at the golf course and to maybe even come home with some money. “Golfers are funny,” Jerry said. “We’re all playing for a buck.”
Hitting a hole-in-one actually cost Jerry some money. The tradition is any golfer that scores an ace on the course is required to pick up everyone’s tab in the clubhouse. “I came away from the day with a $125 tab,” he said.
$125 for an ace isn’t bad, however, considering stories of tabs reaching three digits have reared up in clubhouses all over the area.
Jerry scored the ace on the eleventh hole at Minnesota National while golfing with his buddies Rich Norton, Jerry Bass, and Mike Wayrynen. It is a 162 yard par 3 that Jerry used his five iron on (Although rumors of a 9 wood appearing in his hands that hole have been floating around). As Jerry explained it, he hit the Maxfli Noodle golf ball from the whites, and it looked long. Jerry’s teammate Mike Wayrynen said, “Don’t get excited, but I think it went in.” Once he and his teammates approached the green, his ball was nowhere to be seen. As Jerry looked in the longer grass on the fringe of the green, Mike picked his ball out of the tin cup––leading to Jerry’s immediate exuberance.
Golf is an interesting game where achieving consistency is desired and struggled for. Jerry stroked a 5 on the same hole the next time around, giving him a par for the two times he played it, but according to many golfers, the satisfaction of a couple nice hits in a round of golf is enough to keep one’s interest for a long time. “Like I said,” Jerry explained. “It’s just a shot. Even a blind hog can find a cob of corn.”
The round of golf put Jerry and his teammates in fifth place for the day in a pool of 18 teams. Minnesota National, according to Jerry, has documented two previous hole-in-ones. One on the 15th hole by Mark Johnson last year, and one from Larry Hartse this past spring.
2006 - First official hole-in-one
August 29, 2006 • Voyageur Press
Mark Johnson, age 74, sinks the first hole-in-one on #15 using a six iron at the new Minnesota National east nine
A group of men gather every Monday to play a round of golf at one of the area courses. This past week, six teams gathered to participate in a low-net competition at Minnesota National’s new nine.
For one of those golfers, Mark Johnson, it was a special outing. Mark hit his first ever hole-in-one on the par 3 #15–the first ever at Minnesota National’s new course. Mark sunk the 128-yard shot using a six iron from the yellow tees, and the feat was witnessed by Pat Lallas, Tom Morgan, Bob Johnson, and John Knoblauch.
This was just the third round for Mark on the new course. “The shot went straight at the hole,” said Mark. “It landed on the green, bounced up, and rolled in.”
Prior to this shot, Mark shared that he had never been closer than three feet, and he had witnessed only one other hole-in-one. “I witnessed my daughter’s (Kim) hole-in-one about eight years ago in Arizona,” he added.
Mark has been golfing for 20-plus years, six of them as a member of the local course. Mark is retired and has a home on Lake Minnewawa. He spends the winters in Arizona. In addition to golfing at Minnesota National, Mark is a twice-a-week golfer in Mesa, Arizona.
Mark kept the ball and shared that he probably won’t use it again. It was a ball he found. Mark hasn’t really thought about getting a hole-in-one, nor was it a lifelong dream. “I guess it is the story of the blind squirrel that finds an acorn,” he said.
Tom Morgan hasn’t recorded a hole-in-one yet, but he watched the shot go in. This is the third hole-in-one he has witnessed. “I came close but haven’t dropped any yet.”
Pat Lallas also witnessed the shot. He has accomplished the same feat, twice. “The last one was eight years ago at Como Golf Course in St. Paul,” said Pat. Pat has also witnessed several hole-in-ones.
Mark concluded by sharing that enjoys the new greens. “They are truer and therefore easier than the old nine,” he concluded. “The pins aren’t in a difficult position yet, but I guess you have to hit it straight no matter what.”
2006 - New Nine
August 15, 2006 • Voyageur Press
Last Friday, Minnesota National officially opened the back nine of its championship golf course, just in time for the August Men’s League Tournament. Prior to the start of the tourney, a few groups had an opportunity to be the first to try the new layout.
The day had been much anticipated for almost ten years, ever since Wayne and JoAnne Alden announced their plans for the course formerly known as Savanna Golf Club.
Friday was a beautiful day to ride around the new course, even if the golf clubs were never taken out of the bag. The layout and scenery on these nine holes is an absolute joy, and as with all new golf courses, the playing experience will only get better with the passing of years.
Prior to heading out on the course, golf pro Kent Baril weighed in on the opening of the back nine. Kent has labored long and hard on this project for several years. Kent feels “cautiously optimistic.”
“I think Jason [Mel, golf course supervisor] and I could both be called perfectionists,” he said. “We really would like to see the course be perfect before we open, but we know that is not possible. In this building process we have always wanted to be able to keep holes open. The members have been patient and very supportive, and we wanted to open this up for them at this time.”
This is Jason’s first year at Minnesota National. Jason spent the past three years as an assistant superintendent at Jewell Golf Club in Lake City. This is his 14th year of golf course management after graduating from Penn State University with a degree in Turf Course Management. “Joel [Goldstrand, course designer] did an amazing job with the layout,” Jason said. “This is such a great project to be able to work on. The drought has made it a bit more difficult for us this summer, but we are confident that the golfers will find a good playing surface.” He further added, “Golfers may have to use their foot wedge a few times this season, but the course will only get better and better. I hope they all see the potential that is here and enjoy playing on it as much as we enjoy working on it.”
2005 - The back nine turns green
September 13, 2005 • Voyageur Press
The weather has been phenomenal for the crew at Minnesota National. The entire back nine is now seeded and some
fairways are ready to mow. Seeding will continue for the next two weeks. Despite a few deer problems, the progress on the back nine at Minnesota National has been excellent. Grass
has popped up on holes 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17. The back nine is completely seeded.
The seeds have been planted for golfing next season at Minnesota National Golf Course. The back nine fairways, tees and greens have all been planted and many are already green.
For Jay Gustafson, course superintendent and Darrell Bruggman, maintenance supervisor, there has been plenty to do. They have been working sun up to sun down and they will basically continue this the next two weeks.
“The weather has been phenomenal,” said Jay. “Usually, a heavy rain comes that causes a setback because we would have to reseed. So far, the rains have been timely.”
Jay was working on the 10th green and he was happy to report that they were completing the seeding on the back nine and they would continue on the front. Hole number 16 was the first one to be seeded and it looked like the mower will be needed soon. “That’s right,” said Jay. “Number 16 will get mowed this week and possibly number 17. We may even mow some greens.”
The only real conflict recently has been with the deer. Darrell was in charge of roping off some of the tees and greens. He commented on the fact that they don’t do a ton of damage on the fairways, but they tend to play around on the tees and greens.
Overall, both Jay and Darrell are really happy with the new T-1 Bent Grass. “We are the first course to use it on a full scale basis,” said Jay. “The grass grows quicker and will have a darker green color.”
One of the more popular characteristics of this grass is that it requires less fertilizer. Jay is also hoping it requires less water.
Soon, most golfers will put away their clubs, but the seeds have been planted for next year.
2005 - Minnesota National, nearing reality
July 5, 2005 • Voyageur Press
First nine holes of unique golf and living community to open next spring
An eight year, multi-million dollar dream to create a business venture that would, “bring me home” is taking dramatic shape over and around the existing Savanna Golf Course east of highway 65 on route 232. Wayne Alden, a Palisade native, along with his wife, JoAnne, are building Minnesota National Golf Course, a 309-homesite community and championship 18-hole course that will be partially open for play and residency early in 2006.
The 40-year-old 9-hole course was purchased by the Aldens in 1992 as the first step in a long range plan that would ultimately return them to the area. That layout has been redesigned and will be completed later next year. In the spring, golfers will play the new back nine of Minnesota National.
After graduation from the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, military service flying in Vietnam and for the Pentagon in Washington, the Aldens invested in McDonald’s franchises in the Baltimore area and other businesses elsewhere in the country. They have since sold all of those enterprises and are now focused entirely on developing this unique golf village.
The expanded property now meanders across and through 600 acres of white and red pine, oak, birch, and tamarack. It encircles native marsh, prairie grass, streams and ponds.
Its permanent “residents” are deer, ducks, geese, foxes and even a porcupine or two. Birds of virtually every indigenous species abound to the point that the Audubon Society has a keen interest in the project.
Its natural beauty in the partially and carefully cleared landscape is nothing short of breathtaking, certainly to the conservation minded. Without question Minnesota National is a significant business investment with an admittedly long term return on those dollars. Yet, the reality in the Aldens’ risk of capital is that a nature and wildlife preserve is being created...as much a park as a golfing and residential playground.
‘NOTHING LIKE IT IN MINNESOTA’
Certainly nothing this extensive would get off the drawing board without exhaustive research. When asked about the growth of golf course development – the number of holes available for play in Brainerd and the Grand Rapids area – Alden said it has been “overdone.” Stand-alone courses have seen a drop in overall play and corresponding slide in revenue, he indicated. What this suggests is that a major golf course layout needs to encompass more than just a nearby resort facility to provide rental property. “It needs ownership and the involvement of those families for success and growth,” said Wayne.
Minnesota National will be the first in this region to incorporate a Planned Urban Development. This property designation demands a number of legal safeguards that include covenants to guide what and how individual homes and townhouses will be built to maintain the integrity of the community. It establishes an association among the owners who will direct future actions to be taken on and off the course itself. “At a certain level of home purchases, the residents will own Minnesota National with each having an equal share,” Alden said.
BABY BOOMERS LIKELY BUYERS
With a look toward the demographics of families who become homeowners and members of Minnesota National Alden said, “couples now in their late 50’s and planning for that second home and retirement will be the base of this development.”
EMPLOYMENT AND LOCAL INVOLVEMENT
A census of both the golf and residential development now underway quickly adds up to perhaps 30-50 workers scattered across the project involved in every phase of construction. “These are local people who have been contracted to bring their skills here to build this golf and living community,” Alden said.
As the course itself becomes operational, Alden estimated 24 to 36 employees will be on staff to run the golf course layout. Home site building will be spread over the next few years giving work to local contractors and their people in that part of the project.
A STORY OF STATISTICS
Perhaps the analogy between building a large office complex and a 600-acre golf and residential community doesn’t work, but statistically the numbers are equally impressive:
• Some 10 miles of irrigation pipe are being installed
• More than 400,000 feet of wire will run through that pipe to activate some 450 sprinkler heads to water the 27 holes
• The entire system will be directed by satellite and computer
• An 8-million gallon holding pond is being built to contain runoff water for reuse
• A self-contained water treatment and sewage plant is under construction to handle a sewer system that will connect every home site, there will be no septic tanks
• A series of pumping stations will provide fresh water to the homes, but the course will be irrigated from reclaimed runoff
• About eight tons of grass seed (a combination of the latest hybrid bent and bluegrass) is being sowed
• When completed, the 27 holes will be served by 5 1/2 miles of blacktop cart paths
• 24 slips and a boat storage facility will be provided on the flowage
A COURSE THAT INTIMIDATES OR WILL DELIGHT?
For golfers who range from skilled low handicap players to the occasional “hacker,” the new course combines great challenges, should you choose to take it, with play as easy as it can be. That’s because Joel Goldstrand, the course’s architect, has incorporated as many as five tee boxes on each hole that gives the golfer a totally different look and option. From the longest point, Minnesota National stretches to just over 7,200 yards. But as the series of tees move closer to the greens, avoiding some of the natural marsh and prairie hazards, the length can come down to a very manageable 5,200 yards. “It’s a course for all of us,” Alden said.
MEMBERSHIP AND GREEN FEE COSTS
“For next season, we hope to keep current annual memberships and fees about where they are now even while our current players will be testing out nine holes of the new layout,” Alden responded. “That will include keeping their cart storage as is for 2006.”
In following years the expanded club house, driving range and other amenities will force closing of housing for personal carts.
‘WE’RE GOING TO BUILD OUR NEW HOME RIGHT HERE’
In a perhaps 200-300-year-old stand of huge red and white pine on a ridge line above the mile-long shore of the flowage abuting the property, Alden said he and JoAnne plan to create their own home. “What’s more beautiful than this?”
2004 - Hole-In-One Key to Victory
August 17, 2004 • Voyageur Press
It was a pretty amazing start for the Andersons and Gondeks on Fri., Aug. 6, at Savanna Golf and Supper Club north of McGregor. The fivesome of Barb Anderson, Dean Anderson, Jim Gondek, Diane Gondek and Brenda Anderson were participating in the annual McGregor Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament when they found themselves golfing the round of their lives.
They began the tournament on hole number six, where they birdied, then headed up to hole number seven, where Barb Anderson would hit the shot of the day (and maybe the shot of the year) at Savanna Golf and Supper Club. She hit a nine-wood from the tee that landed the ball right on the green, rolling in the cup for a hole-in-one. The score – and eagle – put their team 3 under par, with 16 holes to play. Word traveled fast at the golf course, especially after the shouts and screams of delight. Jana Jezierski and Dave Schaaf witnessed the shot. They were actually watching the hole for anybody that might sink a hole-in-one.
Participants who signed up got a chance at winning at a Pontoon boat, but the rules state that the shot has to be made from the white tee box. Unfortunately, Barb’s shot was from the reds. “It was in the rules,” concluded Dean. “But that didn’t change her attitude about the hole-in-one.”
Barb is a member at Savanna and this is her first hole-in-one. She claims that she has never had any other shots that were very close. The two witnesses, Jana and Dave, have never witnessed a hole-in-one before and they were pretty surprised. Mike Kruse, the organizer of the event, assigned the two to watch for a hole-in-one, but they didn’t expect to see it.
“What are the odds?” asked Dave. “At first I thought it was their second shot, until I looked closer and they were on the tee box.”
Jana was also impressed and described the shot she witnessed. “It landed just inside the green, bounced three times and rolled in.”
Barb’s shot would spark the team to victory. They rallied to record five birdies, the eagle (hole-in-one), and parred on the other holes. According to Jim, the team had really putted strong. Everyone made big putts, but they all agreed that the hole-in-one was the difference. “We won by one stroke,” added Barb.
The team also had the women’s longest drive. Diane hit one past the tree on number three, earning her a dozen golf balls. Everyone on the team agreed that this was a great tournament and they liked that there was some type of prize to win on every hole–shirts, coolers and other prizes. “There were four pull-overs (donated by McGregor Printing and Graphics) for last place,” added Dean.
“Mike Kruse did an excellent job. It was the most fun I’ve had in a tournament.”
Dean’s team concluded the tournament with a round of 65, one stroke better than the team of Greg Maas, Tom Anderson, Dave Bacon and Ron Borgwardt.
Tournament coordinator, Mike Kruse, felt that the tournament went well. “We had a great turnout,” he said. “In fact, we were two people short of having it full. We really appreciate all the support for the Chamber.”
Mike had help from Tom Kuppich and Tony Bodway, along with several volunteers out on the course.
In addition to Diane Gondek’s longest drive, several other participants won prizes. Dave Lindberg won a free golf gift certificate at Izaty’s; Dave Hoover won the longest drive for men; Kris Rinta won the closest to the cooler on hole number six; Tom Anderson won the closest to the Elm tree on number two.
All in all, the golf outing was a success and most of the participants are sure to return next year... especially the Andersons and the Gondeks.
2001 - Big shots, tension mounts
July 31, 2001 • Voyageur Press
It took five extra holes to decide the winner of this year’s Oldsmobile Scramble Golf Tournament, held at Savanna Golf Course. After eighteen holes of golf, the four members from Greenhaven Golf Course in Anoka, and a local McGregor team, were tied with scores of 55. This set the stage for some excellent drama, on what turned out to be, a very warm afternoon. Mark Bohn, Rick Passer, Mike Wayrynen and Tom Tassinari found themselves in contention, after they shot an eighteen-hole, best ball score of 61. With their six handicap, their final score was 55. In the group right behind them was the team from Greenhaven. Mike Sornson, Al Omdahl, John Knoop and Wally Jones shot a 63, with a team handicap of eight, they had a score of 55 as well.
The key hole for the Greenhaven group came on number two, their final hole in regulation play. Al pointed out that they would not have made the play-off round if it hadn’t been for the final three shots by Mike Sornson. “Mike hit the drive, the approach and the putt on the final hole,” he said. The birdie occured on the hardest hole on the golf course. Not only did the team birdie it on the second nine, but they birdied it the first time around as well. “It was a mirror image both times,” said Mike. The team also credited Wally Jones with an excellent chip on number nine. He chipped to within four inches of the cup for an easy tap in.
The play-off drama began with outstanding shots by both teams. Play began on hole number two and the shot-making started right off the tee box. Both teams finished with drives that landed just a few feet from the pond. This left about 130 yards to the very difficult, number two green, a sloped green that can present some extrememly difficult putts.
The McGregor team was the furthest away from the green and began their approach shots first. Mark Bohn started off by sticking a fantastic shot that landed about five feet from the hole. There wasn’t a better shot by his teammates, so it was Greenhaven’s turn. They answered with a shot that was comparable, but it was nine feet away. Even though the two shots were good ones, the putts would still be challenging.
A large audience had gathered at this point. Everyone was pretty confident that this hole would decide the outcome. Wally Jones stepped up for the Greenhaven team and sank the nine foot putt, putting the pressure on the McGregor team. The tesions really escalated after the first three McGregor golfers missed their putts. The do-or-die putt came down to Tom Tassinari, who calmly stepped up and dropped it in the middle of the cup. His advice to his teammates, “It would be best not to do that again,” and play continued to hole number three.
The par five, 547 yard hole would take three shots to make the green. Mark Bohn stayed hot and hit the next two shots right down the middle, keeping the pressure on Greenhaven.
Meanwhile, the team from Greenhaven ended up in the left rough, but managed to scramble back with two nice shots to the green, leaving a makable putt. Then Wally stepped up with the putter again sinking the putt for a par.
Mike Wayrynen followed with an excellent putt for the McGregor team and everyome was off to hole six, another long par five.
Again, the team from Greenhaven took a round-about way of getting to the green, but eventually ended up 80 yards off to the right. The next two approach shots for Greenhaven both hit the green, but neither of them were close. This opened the door for the McGregor team. They set themselves up nicely by cruising right down the middle of the fairway. Mike Wayrynen hit the second shot that left them 50 yards out with an excellent look at the pin. Unfortunately, the first shot was scalded, the next two shots were short and the next shot went over leaving a chip from the fringe.
It didn’t matter, because Greenhaven two-putted and McGregor needed two shots as well to finish the hole. Play moved to number one. This time Rick Passer stepped up and hit a lengthy drive for his team right down the middle of the fairway. But, as had been the case on every other hole, the opposition matched it with a great drive of their own. The approach shots by both teams ended up leaving long putts that were similar distances away. After several close putts, neither team could finish the match.
After four play-off holes, the teams were still at a draw, so PGA golf professional, Kent Baril, announced that play would return to hole two and, if it wasn’t decided there, they would have a chip-off.
No chip-off was necessary.
After both teams hit acceptabe drives, neither team could find the green, unlike the first attempt on this hole. Both teams ended up just off the fringe below the hole. McGregor lead off, but were unsuccessful in their attempt to get a good chip that was closer than six feet.
It was John Knoop that almost ended the match there. He hit his 30-foot shot just left of the hole about an inch away. This meant McGregor was in the same exact situation – one of the four would have to sink the putt.
Unfortunately, the local team ran out of big shots, and the team from Greenhaven advanced to the Sectionals that will be held August 23rd at Pokegama Golf Course in Grand Rapids. The top two teams at this event will move on to Nationals to be played at Walt Disney World in Florida from October 3rd-7th.
2001 - Terwey sinks Hole-in-1
August 21, 2001 • Voyageur Press
“I think you’re going to like that shot,” said Don Terwey, after his wife Pudge hit a driver off the seventh tee at Savanna Golf Course near Palisade. Pudge Terway was golfing with her husband and two friends, Linda and Kenny Holmstrand, on Thurs., Aug. 16. The par three number seven hole is 150 yards and the green is not visible from the tee box. So, the outcome of most shots are not known until everyone hits and heads up the hill. At first, Pudge figured her ball was in the direction of the water. After Don and Ken searched around the green, Don eventually looked in the hole and there it was — a hole-in-one.
This is the first career hole-in-one for Pudge. She is a recreational golfer and just joined the Savanna Flyers Golf League last year. The only other hole-in-one this year was by Duane Walberg from Rogers, MN. This also occurred on number seven.