Preserving the legacy of Chicagoland golf courses
Chicago Area Golf News
Recent news, events, and coverage of the Chicagoland golf scene, curated every day
Last updated April 18, 2024
I hunt for news, articles, and notes on Chicago golf everyday. If there's something I've missed, let me know!Showing the most recent 20 articles. For older articles, the archive is at the bottom of the page.
April 12, 2024
Aurora panel recommends higher Phillips Park golf fees
An Aurora City Council committee on Thursday recommended an increase in fees to play golf at Phillips Park on the city’s East Side.
Aldermen on the Finance Committee unanimously recommended the increase. The full City Council still needs to vote on the proposed hike in fees.
Jeff Schmidt, Golf Operations manager, said the fees at the Phillips Park Golf Course were last adjusted in 2022. He said the proposed increase would absorb some of the increasing golf industry costs, but also keep the public course competitive with similar golf courses. It also allows for continued investment in the course and its amenities, officials said.
Aurora panel recommends higher Phillips Park golf fees
- Learn more about Phillips Park Golf Course
An Aurora City Council committee on Thursday recommended an increase in fees to play golf at Phillips Park on the city’s East Side.
Aldermen on the Finance Committee unanimously recommended the increase. The full City Council still needs to vote on the proposed hike in fees.
Jeff Schmidt, Golf Operations manager, said the fees at the Phillips Park Golf Course were last adjusted in 2022. He said the proposed increase would absorb some of the increasing golf industry costs, but also keep the public course competitive with similar golf courses. It also allows for continued investment in the course and its amenities, officials said.
April 11, 2024
Robotic range equipment coming to Countryside, ThunderHawk golf courses in Lake County
The Lake County Forest Preserve District is going robotic to mow grass and pick up balls on driving ranges at its Countryside and ThunderHawk golf courses.
With record usage in recent years at both courses, using electric-powered robots will allow the grounds and clubhouse staff to spend more time in other areas, said Alex Eichman, director of golf.
“Each location will have two machines,” he said. “We'll work over the next few weeks to set up a plan and do some testing.”
Robotic range equipment coming to Countryside, ThunderHawk golf courses in Lake County
- Learn more about Countryside Golf Club
The Lake County Forest Preserve District is going robotic to mow grass and pick up balls on driving ranges at its Countryside and ThunderHawk golf courses.
With record usage in recent years at both courses, using electric-powered robots will allow the grounds and clubhouse staff to spend more time in other areas, said Alex Eichman, director of golf.
“Each location will have two machines,” he said. “We'll work over the next few weeks to set up a plan and do some testing.”
April 6, 2024
LIV Tour will return to Chicago after all — but at a new site
Len Ziehm, Daily Herald
The Chicago area will have a major professional golf tournament this year after all. The LIV Golf League is returning, but not at Rich Harvest Farms.
Jerry Rich, owner of the Sugar Grove private club that hosted LIV events in 2022 and 2023, invited the fledgling Saudi-based circuit to return this year but later decided it’d be best to give his club members a year’s break from the distraction that hosting a big pro tournament usually requires from a host club.
LIV Tour will return to Chicago after all — but at a new site
Len Ziehm, Daily Herald
The Chicago area will have a major professional golf tournament this year after all. The LIV Golf League is returning, but not at Rich Harvest Farms.
Jerry Rich, owner of the Sugar Grove private club that hosted LIV events in 2022 and 2023, invited the fledgling Saudi-based circuit to return this year but later decided it’d be best to give his club members a year’s break from the distraction that hosting a big pro tournament usually requires from a host club.
April 2, 2024
Glencoe Golf Club renovation facing expected cost increases
Planning continues for a new era at the Glencoe Golf Club as cost projections are moving higher.
Village officials are now estimating the renovation and update of the Glencoe Golf Club – highlighted by construction of a 10,000 square foot clubhouse/pro shop – will cost between $17 million to $18 million once construction is completed.
In April 2023, voters approved a bond sale referendum allowing the village to borrow up to $15 million for the project set to replace the existing aging clubhouse.
But now that amount of money may not cover the scope of the envisioned enhancements for the Golf Club that besides the new clubhouse will also include a year round restaurant, an event space and other recreational opportunities.
Glencoe Golf Club renovation facing expected cost increases
- Learn more about Glencoe Golf Club
Planning continues for a new era at the Glencoe Golf Club as cost projections are moving higher.
Village officials are now estimating the renovation and update of the Glencoe Golf Club – highlighted by construction of a 10,000 square foot clubhouse/pro shop – will cost between $17 million to $18 million once construction is completed.
In April 2023, voters approved a bond sale referendum allowing the village to borrow up to $15 million for the project set to replace the existing aging clubhouse.
But now that amount of money may not cover the scope of the envisioned enhancements for the Golf Club that besides the new clubhouse will also include a year round restaurant, an event space and other recreational opportunities.
March 25, 2024
Village Links of Glen Ellyn Master Plan Moves Forward With Public Meetings
Residents are invited to attend two public meetings to provide feedback to the master plans for the Village Links of Glen Ellyn. The meetings will review the existing master plan and touch on priorities for upgrades and maintenance to the 18-hole course, which was built in 1967 and renovated in 2003, per its website.
The Village Links staff has hired Martin Design Golf's Greg Martin to formulate a master plan.
Village Links of Glen Ellyn Master Plan Moves Forward With Public Meetings
- Learn more about Village Links of Glen Ellyn
Residents are invited to attend two public meetings to provide feedback to the master plans for the Village Links of Glen Ellyn. The meetings will review the existing master plan and touch on priorities for upgrades and maintenance to the 18-hole course, which was built in 1967 and renovated in 2003, per its website.
The Village Links staff has hired Martin Design Golf's Greg Martin to formulate a master plan.
March 19, 2024
Canal Shores targets July for partial opening of renovated course
In the summer and fall of 2023, the Evanston/Wilmette Golf Association, working with Wadsworth Construction, restructured all 18 holes of the Canal Shores Golf Course, including the addition of a training facility located at holes 1 and 2 of the old course layout. Wadsworth also reseeded all 18 holes of the course.
“The warm winter has helped us, but the opening of the course will be dependent on our spring weather,” said Matt Rooney, president of Evanston/Wilmette Golf Association. ” We plan to make an announcement regarding the opening of the course around June 1.”
Canal Shores targets July for partial opening of renovated course
- Learn more about Canal Shores Golf Course
In the summer and fall of 2023, the Evanston/Wilmette Golf Association, working with Wadsworth Construction, restructured all 18 holes of the Canal Shores Golf Course, including the addition of a training facility located at holes 1 and 2 of the old course layout. Wadsworth also reseeded all 18 holes of the course.
“The warm winter has helped us, but the opening of the course will be dependent on our spring weather,” said Matt Rooney, president of Evanston/Wilmette Golf Association. ” We plan to make an announcement regarding the opening of the course around June 1.”
March 13, 2024
11 golf tournaments scheduled for 2024 at Springbrook and Naperbrook
Most of the tournaments have age and handicap requirements. Information about each tournament, registration, handicaps and eligibility requirements is at www.golfnaperville.org/tournament-schedule.
11 golf tournaments scheduled for 2024 at Springbrook and Naperbrook
- Learn more about Naperbrook Golf Course
Most of the tournaments have age and handicap requirements. Information about each tournament, registration, handicaps and eligibility requirements is at www.golfnaperville.org/tournament-schedule.
March 6, 2024
Upper Deck Golf to return to Wrigley Field in the spring
Adam Harrington, CBS News Chicago
A popular mash-up of two treasured pastimes will return to Wrigley Field this spring.
The pop-up Upper Deck Golf will be returning the ballpark in May after a successful inaugural year last year.
The Cubs will bring the three-day experience to the ballpark from Friday, May 10, through Sunday, May 12. Fans will be able to play a round of golf inside the Friendly Confines.
Much as was the case last year, fans may take swings from nine different spots throughout the ballpark – with the goal of hitting targets set up right on the field.
Upper Deck Golf to return to Wrigley Field in the spring
Adam Harrington, CBS News Chicago
A popular mash-up of two treasured pastimes will return to Wrigley Field this spring.
The pop-up Upper Deck Golf will be returning the ballpark in May after a successful inaugural year last year.
The Cubs will bring the three-day experience to the ballpark from Friday, May 10, through Sunday, May 12. Fans will be able to play a round of golf inside the Friendly Confines.
Much as was the case last year, fans may take swings from nine different spots throughout the ballpark – with the goal of hitting targets set up right on the field.
March 6, 2024
Police say there have been 11 gun-related arrests at TopGolf in Naperville since September 2023
Tess Kenny, Naperville Sun
Naperville police say there have been 11 gun-related arrests at the parking lot for Naperville’s TopGolf facility since September, the most recent occurring over the weekend.
Reports initially indicated the Saturday arrest would have been the eighth, but Cmdr. Ricky Krakow said in an email Tuesday that “we did some digging” and counted 11 gun-related arrests at the 3211 Odyssey Court venue over the past six months.
In the most recent case, Clarence Lamont Massey Jr., 24, of Chicago, was taken into custody about 8:25 p.m. and charged with aggravated unlawful use of weapons, according to police arrest logs.
Police say there have been 11 gun-related arrests at TopGolf in Naperville since September 2023
Tess Kenny, Naperville Sun
Naperville police say there have been 11 gun-related arrests at the parking lot for Naperville’s TopGolf facility since September, the most recent occurring over the weekend.
Reports initially indicated the Saturday arrest would have been the eighth, but Cmdr. Ricky Krakow said in an email Tuesday that “we did some digging” and counted 11 gun-related arrests at the 3211 Odyssey Court venue over the past six months.
In the most recent case, Clarence Lamont Massey Jr., 24, of Chicago, was taken into custody about 8:25 p.m. and charged with aggravated unlawful use of weapons, according to police arrest logs.
February 29, 2024
New clubhouse for Elgin’s Wing Park Golf Course to include shop, simulators, whiskey bar
Elgin has hired FMG Architects Inc. to design a new facility that will be ADA-compliant, enhance the park’s golfing experience, create a safe shelter for patrons and generate additional revenues for Elgin, City Manager Rick Kozal told the Elgin City Council at its Wednesday night meeting.
A concept design calls for the new building to be constructed north of the existing clubhouse, with patio space between the two. The patio area will have practice bays and space for a food truck that can be accessed by players and park visitors.
New clubhouse for Elgin’s Wing Park Golf Course to include shop, simulators, whiskey bar
- Learn more about Wing Park Golf Course
Elgin has hired FMG Architects Inc. to design a new facility that will be ADA-compliant, enhance the park’s golfing experience, create a safe shelter for patrons and generate additional revenues for Elgin, City Manager Rick Kozal told the Elgin City Council at its Wednesday night meeting.
A concept design calls for the new building to be constructed north of the existing clubhouse, with patio space between the two. The patio area will have practice bays and space for a food truck that can be accessed by players and park visitors.
February 22, 2024
Experience free golf lessons, learn about golf trips at the Chicago Golf Show 2024 in Rosemont
Staff report, ABC 7 Chicago
Thousands of golfers will gather for the unofficial kickoff of golf season at the 39th annual Chicago Golf Show. The event, which is presented by the Chicago District Golf Association, will be open to the public Friday through Sunday at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont.
The Chicago Golf Show will feature free rounds of golf, free lessons and swing new clubs at the indoor driving range.
Experience free golf lessons, learn about golf trips at the Chicago Golf Show 2024 in Rosemont
Staff report, ABC 7 Chicago
Thousands of golfers will gather for the unofficial kickoff of golf season at the 39th annual Chicago Golf Show. The event, which is presented by the Chicago District Golf Association, will be open to the public Friday through Sunday at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont.
The Chicago Golf Show will feature free rounds of golf, free lessons and swing new clubs at the indoor driving range.
February 20, 2024
Chicago Golf show returns this weekend
Len Ziehm, Daily Herald
Carrie Williams, the executive director of the Illinois PGA, has no problem calling this week’s 39th annual Chicago Golf Show “the unofficial kickoff to the Chicago golf season.’’ That is what it has been for more than three decades.
The annual midwinter event begins its three-day run Friday at the Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. All the major Chicago golf organizations are participating, with the Chicago District Golf Association expanding its role in its third year as the event’s presenting sponsor.
Chicago Golf show returns this weekend
Len Ziehm, Daily Herald
Carrie Williams, the executive director of the Illinois PGA, has no problem calling this week’s 39th annual Chicago Golf Show “the unofficial kickoff to the Chicago golf season.’’ That is what it has been for more than three decades.
The annual midwinter event begins its three-day run Friday at the Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. All the major Chicago golf organizations are participating, with the Chicago District Golf Association expanding its role in its third year as the event’s presenting sponsor.
February 16, 2024
Results of Oak Brook Golf Club investigation bring changes to pro shop’s operation
Oak Brook officials are adding several changes to the operation of the village’s Oak Brook Golf Club, in light of an investigation into discrepancies found last fall with inventory at the club’s pro shop.
A physical inventory of the golf pro shop merchandise on Aug. 14, 2023, included a review of the purchase/sales cycle to identify differences between the book inventory quantities and the physical inventory count, Village Manager Greg Summers said.
He said the review revealed systemic issues resulting in substantial inconsistencies in the inventory count dating back at least a decade. The investigation showed more than $214,000 of missing, aged unsaleable, and excess inventory, Summers said.
Results of Oak Brook Golf Club investigation bring changes to pro shop’s operation
- Learn more about Oak Brook Golf Club
Oak Brook officials are adding several changes to the operation of the village’s Oak Brook Golf Club, in light of an investigation into discrepancies found last fall with inventory at the club’s pro shop.
A physical inventory of the golf pro shop merchandise on Aug. 14, 2023, included a review of the purchase/sales cycle to identify differences between the book inventory quantities and the physical inventory count, Village Manager Greg Summers said.
He said the review revealed systemic issues resulting in substantial inconsistencies in the inventory count dating back at least a decade. The investigation showed more than $214,000 of missing, aged unsaleable, and excess inventory, Summers said.
February 14, 2024
Arlington Heights tour pro Ghim coped with Rowdy Phoenix golf crowds
Len Ziehm, Daily Herald
Doug Ghim first developed his golf skills growing up in Arlington Heights, and he progressed all the way to the PGA Tour.
Last week he even put himself in position to win for the first time at the Waste Management Phoenix Open and got himself plenty of TV time.
Ghim got off to a good start, shooting 65 in the first round. In the second he was pelted with beer cups after he made birdie at the par-3 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale, and he was tied for third place after seven holes when darkness halted play in Saturday’s weather-delayed third round.
Arlington Heights tour pro Ghim coped with Rowdy Phoenix golf crowds
Len Ziehm, Daily Herald
Doug Ghim first developed his golf skills growing up in Arlington Heights, and he progressed all the way to the PGA Tour.
Last week he even put himself in position to win for the first time at the Waste Management Phoenix Open and got himself plenty of TV time.
Ghim got off to a good start, shooting 65 in the first round. In the second he was pelted with beer cups after he made birdie at the par-3 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale, and he was tied for third place after seven holes when darkness halted play in Saturday’s weather-delayed third round.
February 11, 2024
Stonewall Orchard & Cantigny announced as US Open qualifier sites
The USGA has announced 109 local qualifying sites for the 127th U.S. Open Championship scheduled from May 30 to June 2, 2024, at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club (Course No.2), Village of Pinehurst, NC. There are two additional local qualifying sites - one in Massachusetts and one in Texas - awaiting confirmation, bringing the total number of local qualifying sites to 109 in 2024.
Stonewall Orchard & Cantigny announced as US Open qualifier sites
- Learn more about Stonewall Orchard Golf Club
The USGA has announced 109 local qualifying sites for the 127th U.S. Open Championship scheduled from May 30 to June 2, 2024, at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club (Course No.2), Village of Pinehurst, NC. There are two additional local qualifying sites - one in Massachusetts and one in Texas - awaiting confirmation, bringing the total number of local qualifying sites to 109 in 2024.
February 9, 2024
Is Burnham Woods GC being converted to a nature preserve? Forest Preserve is considering it. Community meeting on Feb 22
The Forest Preserves is considering modifying the Burnham Woods Golf Course to become a preserve with nature-based recreational amenities. Learn more about the workshop and access the online survey.
Is Burnham Woods GC being converted to a nature preserve? Forest Preserve is considering it. Community meeting on Feb 22
- Learn more about Burnham Woods Golf Course
The Forest Preserves is considering modifying the Burnham Woods Golf Course to become a preserve with nature-based recreational amenities. Learn more about the workshop and access the online survey.
February 7, 2024
Architect hired for Maple Meadows golf course makeover
Golf course architect Greg Martin will iron out the details of proposed improvements to the public Maple Meadows track in Wood Dale.
DuPage County forest preserve commissioners in December approved Martin’s master plan for the Maple Meadows Golf Club, a 180-acre, district-owned property.
Martin recommended reducing the number and size of bunkers, making better use of the “wonderfully rolling topography” and expanding a practice area where golfers could sharpen their short game.
Architect hired for Maple Meadows golf course makeover
- Learn more about Maple Meadows Golf Course
Golf course architect Greg Martin will iron out the details of proposed improvements to the public Maple Meadows track in Wood Dale.
DuPage County forest preserve commissioners in December approved Martin’s master plan for the Maple Meadows Golf Club, a 180-acre, district-owned property.
Martin recommended reducing the number and size of bunkers, making better use of the “wonderfully rolling topography” and expanding a practice area where golfers could sharpen their short game.
February 6, 2024
Northbrook’s Heritage Oaks Golf Club named among Top 50 public ranges
For the second year in a row, the Northbrook Park District’s Heritage Oaks Golf Course was named a Golf Range Association of America “Top 50 Range” in the public category, and its director of golf instruction was again named among the “Top 100 Growth of the Game” teaching professionals.
Northbrook’s Heritage Oaks Golf Club named among Top 50 public ranges
- Learn more about Heritage Oaks Golf Club
For the second year in a row, the Northbrook Park District’s Heritage Oaks Golf Course was named a Golf Range Association of America “Top 50 Range” in the public category, and its director of golf instruction was again named among the “Top 100 Growth of the Game” teaching professionals.
January 12, 2024
Frankfort golf dome collapses as winter storm slams Chicago area
Fox 32 Staff, Fox 32 Chicago
The Green Garden Country Club golf dome in suburban Frankfort collapsed on Friday as a winter storm made its way through the Chicago area.
According to the Frankfort Fire Protection District, the indoor driving range maintains its "balloon" shape by being pressurized. Due to rain, heavy snow and wind gusts, the roof began to sag caused a light pole inside the dome to puncture the lining.
Frankfort golf dome collapses as winter storm slams Chicago area
Fox 32 Staff, Fox 32 Chicago
The Green Garden Country Club golf dome in suburban Frankfort collapsed on Friday as a winter storm made its way through the Chicago area.
According to the Frankfort Fire Protection District, the indoor driving range maintains its "balloon" shape by being pressurized. Due to rain, heavy snow and wind gusts, the roof began to sag caused a light pole inside the dome to puncture the lining.
December 28, 2023
Wheatstack Restaurant at River Bend Golf Club To Close Permanently
A popular Lisle restaurant known for its Midwest cuisine and a space to celebrate good times and meaningful milestones will serve its last meal and rounds of drinks this weekend after announcing that it will be closing permanently to start 2024.
Wheatstack, which is located in the clubhouse at River Bend Golf Club, announced in a social media post that it will close after opening for business for the final time on Sunday. The eatery’s management wrote in the post that the decision to shutter operations comes with a heavy heart.
Wheatstack Restaurant at River Bend Golf Club To Close Permanently
- Learn more about River Bend Golf Club
A popular Lisle restaurant known for its Midwest cuisine and a space to celebrate good times and meaningful milestones will serve its last meal and rounds of drinks this weekend after announcing that it will be closing permanently to start 2024.
Wheatstack, which is located in the clubhouse at River Bend Golf Club, announced in a social media post that it will close after opening for business for the final time on Sunday. The eatery’s management wrote in the post that the decision to shutter operations comes with a heavy heart.
Full Archive of Chicago Golf News
2024 April (4 articles)2024 March (5 articles)
2024 February (9 articles)
2024 January (1 article)
2023 December (5 articles)
2023 November (7 articles)
2023 October (8 articles)
2023 September (8 articles)
2023 August (28 articles)
2023 July (21 articles)
2023 June (14 articles)
2023 May (15 articles)
2023 April (14 articles)
2023 March (10 articles)
2023 February (13 articles)
2023 January (8 articles)
2022 December (6 articles)
2022 November (20 articles)
2022 October (19 articles)
2022 September (23 articles)
2022 August (49 articles)
2022 July (36 articles)
2022 June (8 articles)
2022 May (6 articles)
2022 April (2 articles)
2022 March (1 article)
2022 January (3 articles)
2021 August (1 article)
2021 July (2 articles)
2021 April (1 article)
2020 June (2 articles)
2016 August (1 article)
2014 June (1 article)
2003 November (1 article)