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Chicago Area Golf News
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December 2025
Carriage Greens Country Club is currently repaying a $366,000 subsidy granted by the City of Darien in 2019, utilizing increased tax revenues from sales and gambling to cover the debt over a ten-year period. City officials confirmed the arrangement after a local school board president inquired about the subsidy following a report that ranked the course poorly in certain categories. Despite the scrutiny, officials note the private club is performing well and must directly pay any difference if tax revenues fail to cover the full amount by the deadline.
Woodridge residents have organized to oppose a proposed redevelopment of the Zigfield Troy Golf Course that would convert the 35-acre site into commercial lots and 220 townhomes. While the plan by Kensington Development Partners retains the existing miniature golf course, neighbors argue the high-density project requires excessive rezoning and will result in traffic congestion, school overcrowding, and a loss of green space. In response, the opposition group has launched a GoFundMe campaign to hire legal counsel to challenge the current proposal and advocate for lower-density alternatives.
In preparation for Ravisloe Golf Club’s 125th anniversary in 2026, staff member Jim McGrath is soliciting community photos and memories to help document the history of the Donald Ross-designed course. Founded as a private club in 1901 and opened to the public in 2008, the historic venue invites anyone with stories or artifacts to contact McGrath.
The Village of Woodridge has secured the immediate future of Village Greens by approving a two-year management agreement with KemperSports. Following the Park District’s departure in late 2025, this deal ensures the course remains open under professional oversight while the Village conducts a broader community study to determine the property's long-term "highest and best use."
Efforts to preserve Calumet Country Club are underway from both the CDGA and the Donald Ross Society.
The 18-hole Village Green golf course has officially closed to undergo a $4.2 million transformation into a sports complex for Mundelein High School. Demolition began in September to make way for new tennis courts and athletic fields, replacing the course originally opened in 1962. This conversion is part of a larger $149.5 million district facility improvement plan that also includes significant renovations and classroom additions to the high school itself.
The future of the Village Greens of Woodridge is under review after a consultant termed its financial struggles "perplexing" given the high local demand for golf. While selling the property could yield over $50 million, the report recommends the village hire a third-party manager to overhaul operations -- specifically citing poor marketing, flawed rate structures, and damaging year-round play as key failures --projecting that proper management could make the course profitable despite needing millions in capital improvements.
Zinkand Golf Design, led by architect Dave Zinkand, has completed a new short course and practice facility at Chicago’s historic Saddle and Cycle Club, which is expected to open next summer. To maximize the limited urban footprint near Lake Michigan, Zinkand implemented a creative reversible routing that features eight par-three holes played in opposing directions as four-hole loops. The extensive renovation involved demolishing existing features to construct four new greens, a 30,000-square-foot putting course, and CapillaryFlow-lined bunkers, marking Zinkand's second major Chicago-area project this year following his work at Old Elm Club.
November 2025
The Winnetka Park District has closed the third hole of its recently renovated primary course for the season following two acts of vandalism where a vehicle, believed to be an electric bike or scooter, intentionally damaged the green. Police estimate the incidents caused thousands of dollars in damage and are currently investigating, while park officials have stabilized the area and plan to complete full turf restoration in the spring.
Zinkand Golf Design has completed construction on a new short course and practice facility at Chicago’s Saddle & Cycle Club, slated to open in Summer 2026. Located on a compact urban site near Lincoln Park, the facility features an innovative reversible routing, allowing eight par-three holes to be played as two different four-hole loops, maximizing variety and preserving space for simultaneous practice. The project replaced the parcel's previous features with four new greens, 30,000 square feet of putting course, new bunkers, and expanded teeing grounds, creating what the club's general manager described as a creative design that will "set the standard for city clubs."
Calumet Country Club is permanently closed. The owner, W&E Ventures, announced it will remove all infrastructure, including landscaping and golf holes, citing public safety and vagrancy concerns. The closure of the historic 1901 Donald Ross-designed course follows years of uncertainty and contentious proposals to redevelop the land for industrial use.
The Evans at Canal Shores golf course had a highly successful 2025, its first full season following a 2024 renovation. The course was recognized by Golfweek Magazine as the No. 22 public-access short course in the U.S. It significantly exceeded its goal of 21,000 rounds, with 24,000 played year-to-date and a projection of 26,000.
The non-profit course also launched a successful new WGA-sponsored caddie program, offering a path to the Evans Scholarship, and saw its First Tee youth program attendance exceed expectations. Despite significant vandalism in August, the grounds crew and volunteers repaired the damage within two days. The course is financially healthy, though still reliant on donations, and is building a new "Patio Grill" set to open next spring.
The non-profit course also launched a successful new WGA-sponsored caddie program, offering a path to the Evans Scholarship, and saw its First Tee youth program attendance exceed expectations. Despite significant vandalism in August, the grounds crew and volunteers repaired the damage within two days. The course is financially healthy, though still reliant on donations, and is building a new "Patio Grill" set to open next spring.
October 2025
Ryan Companies is the latest developer expressing interest in the Calumet Country Club, floating a potential industrial development to the Hazel Crest Village Board. This renews a six-year battle over the 130-acre property, which was annexed by Hazel Crest after residents in neighboring Homewood blocked a similar warehouse proposal. A community group, South Suburbs for Greenspace, continues to fight the development, arguing the area cannot lose its last major green space. Activists also charge that the industrial push is racially biased against the 85% Black community and that any potential jobs would be offset by TIF subsidies and lower property values.
The Illinois Golf Hall of Fame inducts new members every two years, and the next class of six inductees will be honored Friday at The Glen Club in Glenview.
While Illinois has hardly been rich in PGA Tour players, the 21st induction class has two who made it to golf’s premier circuit. Bob Zender won the PGA Tour Qualifying Tournament in 1971, and he was a regular on the circuit through 1982. David Ogrin arrived in 1983 and played until 2000, then spent parts of two seasons on PGA Tour Champions.
While Illinois has hardly been rich in PGA Tour players, the 21st induction class has two who made it to golf’s premier circuit. Bob Zender won the PGA Tour Qualifying Tournament in 1971, and he was a regular on the circuit through 1982. David Ogrin arrived in 1983 and played until 2000, then spent parts of two seasons on PGA Tour Champions.
September 2025
A couple with deep Elgin roots will help bring something new to Illinois’ oldest nine-hole municipal golf course.
Chip Shots Golf & Whiskey Bar will open as part of the new $4.3 million, 9,600-square-foot clubhouse at the Wing Park Golf Course in Elgin. It will be operated by Breanne and Alan Moreno, the owners of Plank Road Tap Room on Elgin’s west side.
Chip Shots Golf & Whiskey Bar will open as part of the new $4.3 million, 9,600-square-foot clubhouse at the Wing Park Golf Course in Elgin. It will be operated by Breanne and Alan Moreno, the owners of Plank Road Tap Room on Elgin’s west side.
FOX 32's Gabriella Premus tries her hand with the putter at the newly unveiled Columbus Park Mini Putt Course.
Architect Todd Quitno and contractor Wadsworth Golf Course Construction are working on the second of a three-phase renovation project at Cantigny Golf Club in Wheaton, Illinois.
While the sides do battle this week, staffers will be preparing Medinah for next year’s President’s Cup there. The President’s Cup is also a biennial event with a similar team format as the Ryder, but not the prestige.
After operating for over 60 years, the Village Green golf course in Mundelein is closing permanently. Since its opening in 1962, the affordable and player-friendly course became a beloved community hub for longtime leagues, families, and loyal regulars. The property was purchased by Mundelein High School District 120, which will invest around $9 million to convert the land into new athletic facilities, including tennis courts, a softball field, a baseball field, and a multi-purpose field. As it prepared to close, nostalgic patrons gathered for final rounds to reminisce, lamenting the loss of a rare, budget-friendly course that many considered a second home.
This summer, the newly reopened public golf course The Evans at Canal Shores launched a youth caddie program for the first time since 1919. Created and taught by the Western Golf Association (WGA), the program trained 14 local teenagers, providing them with a summer job and a pathway to earning the prestigious Chick Evans Scholarship. Golfers could use a caddie at no charge, with the expectation of providing a generous tip, which the students kept entirely after completing a free, comprehensive training on golf rules and professional skills. The program proved to be a success, with the young caddies working in pairs to assist golfers by walking the course, carrying bags, and helping with the pace of play.
August 2025
Alli Wiertel, a 16-year-old sophomore golfer at Oswego High School, shot a remarkable round of 59 at a tournament at Whitetail Ridge in Yorkville. To achieve the rare score, which has only been accomplished once on the LPGA Tour, she made an eagle and a birdie on her final two holes. While the score set a new course record, it isn't an official state record. Wiertel now has her sights set on winning the state championship and breaking the official state tournament record.
Residents living near Buffalo Grove's Arboretum Club golf course are reporting constant property damage from errant golf balls. Homeowners have experienced numerous incidents, including shattered car and house windows, with one resident being narrowly missed by a ball in his own yard.
According to the residents, the golfers responsible often deny their actions, and police are unable to intervene. While the village-owned golf course previously covered repair costs, that practice has been discontinued. The village now places responsibility on the individual golfers, leaving homeowners to bear the financial burden of the damages.
According to the residents, the golfers responsible often deny their actions, and police are unable to intervene. While the village-owned golf course previously covered repair costs, that practice has been discontinued. The village now places responsibility on the individual golfers, leaving homeowners to bear the financial burden of the damages.
Overnight on Friday, August 15th, vandals driving two stolen Northwestern University golf carts caused significant damage to The Evans at Canal Shores, a recently renovated nonprofit golf course in Evanston and Wilmette. The vehicles were used to perform "donuts" on multiple greens and fairways, leaving deep tire tracks that forced the course to close on Saturday. Police are investigating the incident and have recovered the abandoned carts. Course officials described the act as a "gut punch" to a beloved community space and are currently assessing the costly and time-consuming repairs needed, particularly on the 11th and 13th greens.
Effective November 11, 2025, the Woodridge Park District will terminate its lease to operate the Village Greens Golf Course, returning control of the facility to the Village of Woodridge, which owns the property. The Park District's decision is due to financial difficulties, including annual operating losses and the need for an estimated $12 million in future capital investments.
The Village of Woodridge will now conduct a comprehensive review to determine the best path forward for the course. No decision has been made yet on whether the golf course will close or remain open. The Village has committed to a transparent process that will include public input and will work to support the course's staff during the transition.
The Village of Woodridge will now conduct a comprehensive review to determine the best path forward for the course. No decision has been made yet on whether the golf course will close or remain open. The Village has committed to a transparent process that will include public input and will work to support the course's staff during the transition.
With construction to begin soon on the new $4.3 million clubhouse at the Wing Park Golf Course, the Elgin City Council signed off Wednesday on a rule change giving food trucks — including one at the clubhouse — conditional use standing.
The council then used the new ordinance to approve a conditional use under which Chip Shots Whiskey and Simulator Bar can operate a food truck to prepare meals for outside and inside consumption. The business also will sell alcoholic beverages.
The council then used the new ordinance to approve a conditional use under which Chip Shots Whiskey and Simulator Bar can operate a food truck to prepare meals for outside and inside consumption. The business also will sell alcoholic beverages.
No one suffered injuries after the pilot of a small aircraft made an emergency landing Thursday evening near a Joliet golf course. The 21-year-old pilot informed responding officers that the aircraft’s engine began to fail mid-flight, prompting the emergency landing.
The threesome making up the final group at the final day at LIV Golf Chicago were each seeking their first win of 2025. One of them, a rookie, was seeking his first professional win anywhere.
Dean Burmester began the final round with a two-shot lead over a pair of Spaniards, Jon Rahm and Josele Ballester.
"Going to have to brush up on my Spanish,” Burmester quipped after learning who he'd be playing with Sunday.
Dean Burmester began the final round with a two-shot lead over a pair of Spaniards, Jon Rahm and Josele Ballester.
"Going to have to brush up on my Spanish,” Burmester quipped after learning who he'd be playing with Sunday.
With an uncertain up-in-the-air future, plagued with rejected rezoning plans and abandoned redevelopment proposals, Village Green Golf Course has been operated by GolfVisions Management, Inc., since 2008. GolfVisions even headquartered its operations in the Village Green clubhouse, until now.
Calling out to its long time patrons, nostalgic golfers, or just the public in general, Village Green has announced holding its “Farewell Scramble” on Saturday, August 23.
With its last ride, last rodeo, last hurrah quickly approaching in September, Village Green GC will now join Indian Valley and Four Winds as golf facilities brandishing the 60060 zip code that have closed in the past 3 decades.
Calling out to its long time patrons, nostalgic golfers, or just the public in general, Village Green has announced holding its “Farewell Scramble” on Saturday, August 23.
With its last ride, last rodeo, last hurrah quickly approaching in September, Village Green GC will now join Indian Valley and Four Winds as golf facilities brandishing the 60060 zip code that have closed in the past 3 decades.
Arbor Lodging Partners announced the acquisition of Eaglewood Resort & Spa, a 295-room full-service resort located in Itasca, Illinois, directly adjacent to the Medinah Country Club (host of the 2026 Presidents Cup).
The resort is four miles from O’Hare International Airport and proximate to downtown Chicago, and it is set on 102 acres. The property offers 39,000 square feet of meeting space, an 18-hole USGA-certified championship golf course, and a range of wellness and leisure amenities, including multiple food and beverage outlets, a full-service spa, and a bowling alley.
The resort is four miles from O’Hare International Airport and proximate to downtown Chicago, and it is set on 102 acres. The property offers 39,000 square feet of meeting space, an 18-hole USGA-certified championship golf course, and a range of wellness and leisure amenities, including multiple food and beverage outlets, a full-service spa, and a bowling alley.
A small plane made an emergency landing on an Elgin, Illinois golf course Wednesday evening.
Elgin fire officials said the plane was experiencing mechanical issues and made an emergency landing on the Highlands of Elgin golf course.
Officials said the Federal Aviation Administration notified Elgin police about the impending emergency landing at about 8:20 p.m. Officers and emergency responders went to the golf course and found the plane, which they said landed safely.
Elgin fire officials said the plane was experiencing mechanical issues and made an emergency landing on the Highlands of Elgin golf course.
Officials said the Federal Aviation Administration notified Elgin police about the impending emergency landing at about 8:20 p.m. Officers and emergency responders went to the golf course and found the plane, which they said landed safely.
Mike Small, the University of Illinois men’s golf coach who has won 14 Illinois PGA titles, was bidding for a record-tying fifth Illinois Open crown on Friday. He had an uncharacteristically bad day at Kemper Lakes in Kildeer and didn’t get it, but the day wasn’t a complete downer.
In July one of Small’s former Illini players, Brian Campbell, won the John Deere Classic – Illinois’ only annual PGA Tour event. Then, on Wednesday, another Small pupil – Michael Feagles – captured the 76th Illinois Open, the state’s biggest event for Illinois golfers.
In July one of Small’s former Illini players, Brian Campbell, won the John Deere Classic – Illinois’ only annual PGA Tour event. Then, on Wednesday, another Small pupil – Michael Feagles – captured the 76th Illinois Open, the state’s biggest event for Illinois golfers.
A new miniature golf course and short game practice facility is opening in Chicago’s Columbus Park.
City officials will celebrate the park's completion at 9 a.m. Wednesday in Columbus Park, located at 5701 West Jackson Boulevard, the park district recently announced.
The new 9-hole artificial turf mini putt course and practice facility features both chipping and putting greens, and creative design that is fun and engaging for golfers of all ages and skill levels, the Park District said in a release.
City officials will celebrate the park's completion at 9 a.m. Wednesday in Columbus Park, located at 5701 West Jackson Boulevard, the park district recently announced.
The new 9-hole artificial turf mini putt course and practice facility features both chipping and putting greens, and creative design that is fun and engaging for golfers of all ages and skill levels, the Park District said in a release.
In 2025, the LIV Golf tournament returns to Bolingbrook Golf Club for a three-day event featuring top players like Jon Rahm and a Saturday concert by Good Charlotte. The event includes a family-friendly Fan Village, with tickets starting at $35 and free parking provided.
July 2025
For three years, Bensenville police have been investigating nearly $800,000 in questionable refunds issued at the White Pines Golf Club between 2014 and 2019. Citing the ongoing investigation, the village has declined to release the police report. The refunds, which steadily increased annually, sometimes lacked explanations and were accompanied by "massive" food and liquor discounts.
A GolfScout analysis of over 200 Chicago-area golf courses reveals significant price shifts in 2025. While the average green fee saw a modest 6% increase, this figure masks dramatic swings at individual courses, ranging from a 14.3% decrease to a 37.5% increase.
Courses with poor conditions, like Calumet Country Club and Ruffled Feathers, slashed prices to attract golfers. Conversely, facilities that underwent major renovations, such as Canal Shores and Winnetka Golf Club, introduced substantial price hikes. Bolingbrook Golf Club implemented the largest increase after hosting a LIV Golf tournament. A new 8.5% state tax on cart rentals also contributed to pricing complexity across the region. The data suggests a market in transition, where courses must justify their prices with quality, while premium courses with strong reputations maintained stable pricing.
Courses with poor conditions, like Calumet Country Club and Ruffled Feathers, slashed prices to attract golfers. Conversely, facilities that underwent major renovations, such as Canal Shores and Winnetka Golf Club, introduced substantial price hikes. Bolingbrook Golf Club implemented the largest increase after hosting a LIV Golf tournament. A new 8.5% state tax on cart rentals also contributed to pricing complexity across the region. The data suggests a market in transition, where courses must justify their prices with quality, while premium courses with strong reputations maintained stable pricing.
Johnny Keefer is heading to the PGA TOUR. The Korn Ferry Tour rookie earned "TOURBound status" with his victory at the NV5 Invitational and rises to No. 1 on the 2025 Korn Ferry Tour Points List.
For the first time, the 2025 Western Amateur will stream live on ESPN+ on August 1-2 from Skokie Country Club. Known as the "toughest test in amateur golf," the historic event features the world's best amateurs competing in a grueling format of stroke play followed by a "Sweet 16" match play bracket. Past champions include legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, cementing its reputation as a proving ground for future stars.
ohnny Keefer, Jeffrey Kang, Cooper Dossey share lead at NV5 Invitational
The NV5 Invitational, a Korn Ferry Tour event that serves as a pathway to the PGA Tour, returns this week to The Glen Club in Glenview. Its most notable alumnus is the 2019 champion, Scottie Scheffler, who is now the world's No. 1 ranked golfer and recently won the British Open for his fourth major title. The tournament showcases a high level of competition from players aspiring to join the PGA Tour, with play beginning Thursday morning.
In a dramatic turn of events at the 94th Illinois State Amateur, Connor Hamm, who started the final day with a commanding 7-stroke lead after a morning round of 63, collapsed in the afternoon with a 75. Capitalizing on Hamm's misfortunes, former professional Jordan Less secured the title with a birdie-birdie finish, winning by a single stroke. Less, who recently regained his amateur status, shot a final-round 68 to finish at 16-under-par.
The Chicago golf season is in full swing with several major tournaments occurring in rapid succession, including the Illinois State Amateur, the Illinois Women’s Open, the NV5 Invitational, and the Western Amateur. Notably, last year's State Amateur champion, Pierce Grieve, is not defending his title, instead focusing on qualifying for the U.S. Amateur and a potential professional debut.
The extensive renovations at Cantigny Golf focused on modernizing the 35-year-old course for improved playability and efficiency. Key updates included the installation of a new, water-saving irrigation system with directional sprinkler heads to promote healthier turf. The course's bunkers were reconstructed to reduce their sandy footprints while maintaining their challenge through strategic sloping. To enhance gameplay, a minimal number of critical trees were removed from key shot paths. Additionally, the Hillside-9's tee boxes were leveled, and its greens were rebuilt to be larger and more "dramatically" undulating for more challenging pin placements. The project also features a new 30,000-square-foot putting green and plans for a future Airstream "halfway house," positioning the Wheaton facility as a top-tier renovated golf destination.
June 2025
Following the sudden closure of its second restaurant, Bella Notte, at the Riverbend Golf Club, the Lisle Park District staff was commended by its board for the swift transformation and reopening of the space as the "Canteen." Instead of seeking a new full-service restaurant, the district opted for a scaled-down approach, offering golfers and rental groups a limited menu of alcoholic and soft drinks, quick snacks like hot dogs and pizza, and additional options like salads and wraps through a partnership with Sammy's Pub & Grill.
Last week, the Chicago District Golf Association (CDGA) held two major tournaments, with Bridget Butler winning the Illinois State Women's Amateur and Ford Martin winning the Chicago Adaptive Open. This week, the CDGA is hosting its premier event, the 105th CDGA Amateur at Briarwood in Deerfield. After a 36-hole stroke play qualifier on Monday reduced the field to 16, two rounds of match play on Tuesday left just four semifinalists to compete on Wednesday. The tournament will conclude with a 36-hole championship match on Thursday.
Bubba Watson's RangeGoats GC has partnered with Cantigny Youth Links, a youth-focused golf club near Chicago, to mentor young golfers. This collaboration includes personalized videos, custom gear, and letters from the professional team to encourage the children. The partnership will conclude with a "GOATS vs Kids Golf Day" on August 4, 2025, where 45 junior golfers will have the chance to play with Watson and his teammates, an event aimed at inspiring the next generation of players both on and off the course.
Next weekend, White Pines Golf Club in Bensenville is partnering with Fireball Whisky for a special event where Golden Retrievers will act as "caddies." On Friday, June 27, these dogs will find special cinnamon-scented golf balls that go off-course. Golfers can book tee times for this unique experience starting June 20. For those unable to attend, the scented golf balls will be available for purchase online.
The owners of the Carriage Greens Country Club in Darien are moving forward with plans to install a six-foot, chain-link fence along the third hole to combat ongoing vandalism and trespassing, having already received a permit from the city. This decision has been met with distress from neighboring residents who have pleaded with city officials for a less obtrusive, "corral-style" fence and even offered to contribute financially. Despite their pleas, the club's owners, citing the necessity of protecting their property from further damage, are proceeding with the installation of 1,000 linear feet of the chain-link fence, with the potential for future additions if vandalism continues.
PGA Tour player Doug Ghim, from Arlington Heights, has been added to the field of the 125th U.S. Open at Oakmont. After initially failing to secure a spot through a seven-player playoff in the Dallas final qualifier, Ghim was one of the last seven players elevated to the 156-man field following withdrawals and the finalization of qualification procedures. A former University of Texas standout and the 2018 Ben Hogan Award winner, the 29-year-old has earned $7.6 million on tour but is still seeking his first victory. This will mark his second appearance in the U.S. Open, having missed the cut in his 2018 debut.
Anyone who plays golf will tell you that you can learn so many great things besides a great swing. But lessons can get pricey and leave people from underserved communities under-represented in the end. First Tee – Greater Chicago is doing something about that. And Brandon White, Vice President of Programming and Operations for First Tee – Greater Chicago, is here to talk about how they're empowering youth with life skills, character development, and mentorship.
The Big Ten Network partners with the Western Golf Association to provide complimentary admission to the Korn Ferry Tour event at The Glen Club, giving Chicago-area fans free access to watch golf's rising stars compete July 24-27.
A new Caddie Academy at the renovated Canal Shores Golf Course, now named The Evans at Canal Shores, is training teenagers like 15-year-old Danny Hesburgh to be golf caddies. This program, supported by the Western Golf Association, not only teaches essential on-course skills but also offers a pathway to the prestigious Evans Scholarship for college, which was established by famed golfer and former caddie Chick Evans. The academy aims to instill life skills and provide opportunities for youth, including those from underserved communities, to gain experience in golf and potentially earn a college education, following in the footsteps of Evans himself.
The Chicago Police Department and the Chicago Park District jointly hosted a youth golf event called "Play Like a Champion" at the South Shore Golf Course on Saturday. The program was designed not only to teach children the fundamentals of golf, with activities like a golf version of tic-tac-toe, but also to build positive relationships between the youth and police officers. Organizers, including CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling, highlighted the importance of exposing children to new experiences and fostering community connections. The event also marked the unveiling of a new public training facility at the golf course, which features advanced amenities like real sand bunkers and a multi-level putting green to serve the community.
Construction has commenced on a new $18 million clubhouse at the Glencoe Golf Club, replacing a structure from the 1920s. Funded primarily by a $15 million bond sale referendum approved by Glencoe voters in 2023, the 10,000-square-foot facility will feature a year-round restaurant, sports bar, event space, and multi-sport simulators, with a total capacity of 290 people. The project, celebrated with a groundbreaking ceremony on May 19, aims to be highly sustainable with features like geothermal HVAC and bird-safe glass. While the golf course itself will not be renovated, an additional $3 million is being raised by a private non-profit for amenities such as a croquet court, community gardens, and a monarch butterfly sanctuary. Despite some community opposition regarding the project's scale and cost, officials anticipate the new clubhouse will become a significant, year-round community resource for Glencoe and Cook County, with a projected opening in June 2026.
The Chicago Park District, in partnership with Troon, has commenced construction on a new, free artificial turf short game practice area and a 9-hole mini-putt course at the Columbus Park Golf Course. This initiative aims to provide more free golfing opportunities for youth on Chicago's West Side, supplementing existing programs that have already served over 3,200 young people. The new facility, funded by Troon, is designed to make golf more accessible to both beginners and experienced players. The project, which was announced at a groundbreaking ceremony attended by Chicago Park District Superintendent Ramirez Rosa, Alderman Taliaferro, and Troon Vice-President Mc Intee, is expected to be completed and open to the public in late summer 2025.
May 2025
The DuPage County Forest Preserve board is set to vote on a nearly $14.9 million contract with Wadsworth Golf Construction to undertake a significant renovation of the Maple Meadows Golf Course in Wood Dale. This project aims to completely overhaul the course layout, install a new irrigation system, and reconstruct cart paths and the parking lot. The improvements are driven by the deterioration of existing infrastructure and a desire to enhance the property's ecological value, increase wetlands, improve stormwater management, and modernize the overall experience for golfers.
This initiative reflects an evolving perspective within the Forest Preserve, where golf facilities are now viewed as "golf preserves" that integrate ecological benefits with recreational use. The renovation will also address practical concerns such as reducing maintenance costs, improving pace of play, and making the course more walkable, ultimately aiming to keep green fees affordable. The project, slated to be
This initiative reflects an evolving perspective within the Forest Preserve, where golf facilities are now viewed as "golf preserves" that integrate ecological benefits with recreational use. The renovation will also address practical concerns such as reducing maintenance costs, improving pace of play, and making the course more walkable, ultimately aiming to keep green fees affordable. The project, slated to be
The McHenry Golf Club, formerly the McHenry Country Club, recently secured a liquor license from the McHenry City Council. This approval, passed 6-0, allows the club to continue serving alcohol for golfers and events, especially important as the course currently lacks a restaurant operator. The club, which celebrated its 100th birthday in 2022, was sold on January 30th for $1.98 million to McHenry Golf Club Properties LLC, owned by Edward Hinz. The new license was sought by Hinz after Addison's Steakhouse, which was slated to open a second location at the club and had been granted its own liquor license in February, failed to open.
The Illinois Golf Hall of Fame has selected its 21st induction class of six members, headlined by two former PGA Tour players: Bob Zender, who won three Illinois State Amateurs and All-American honors at Purdue before winning the 1971 PGA Tour qualifying tournament and playing professionally for a decade, and David Ogrin, a Waukegan native who won the 1996 Texas Open by beating Tiger Woods and recorded 32 top-10 PGA Tour finishes. The October 17 ceremony at The Glen Club will also honor course superintendent Dee Dinelli, KemperSports CEO Steve Skinner, racial integration pioneer Horace McDougal, and course designer Joe Roseman. In other news, Northwestern's women won the NCAA championship by beating top-ranked Stanford 3-2 in the final match, Illinois men finished 18th with Max Herendeen advancing individually to 27th place, both Illinois teams made major recruiting signings, and Illinois alum Nick Hardy posted his best PGA Tour finish this season with a tie for 11th at the Charles Sch
The game of golf is challenging physically and mentally, but it can be a game-changer socially. Now it is more affordable, than ever, for young people.
There's a program this summer that gets young people on dozens of different Chicago area golf courses for $5 a round.
There's a program this summer that gets young people on dozens of different Chicago area golf courses for $5 a round.
Darien officials on Monday reported more damage and problems at the Carriage Greens Country Club.
Earlier this month, the golf course's owners told Patch that neighbors have turned a "blind eye" to those trespassing on and damaging the property.
They warned that they may have to erect a fence to solve the problem. That is something that neighbors apparently do not want.
Earlier this month, the golf course's owners told Patch that neighbors have turned a "blind eye" to those trespassing on and damaging the property.
They warned that they may have to erect a fence to solve the problem. That is something that neighbors apparently do not want.
A 70-year-old golfer is recovering after being hit by a car that drove onto the Billy Caldwell Golf Course, officials said.
The incident happened on Monday at about 5:30 p.m. in the Forest Glen neighborhood.
Forest Preserves of Cook County police said a person drove onto the course and started to drive erratically.
The driver allegedly struck a 70-year-old male golfer on the 5th hole, police said.
The incident happened on Monday at about 5:30 p.m. in the Forest Glen neighborhood.
Forest Preserves of Cook County police said a person drove onto the course and started to drive erratically.
The driver allegedly struck a 70-year-old male golfer on the 5th hole, police said.
Carriage Greens Country Club has suffered its fourth incident of vandalism this year, prompting the owner to warn that he may seek a permit to erect a fence.
"It’s astounding to me how our golf course neighbors seem to have selective vision when it comes to issues regarding my business, Carriage Greens Country Club," owner Brian Broderick said in a statement to Patch on Tuesday morning. "The homeowners association, for example, focuses on minor details, like a fence that needs painting or complaints about snow plows in the parking lot, while turning a blind eye to far more pressing matters – such as groups of kids causing tens of thousands of dollars in damage to the golf course in their backyard."
"It’s astounding to me how our golf course neighbors seem to have selective vision when it comes to issues regarding my business, Carriage Greens Country Club," owner Brian Broderick said in a statement to Patch on Tuesday morning. "The homeowners association, for example, focuses on minor details, like a fence that needs painting or complaints about snow plows in the parking lot, while turning a blind eye to far more pressing matters – such as groups of kids causing tens of thousands of dollars in damage to the golf course in their backyard."
On April 29, Vernon Hills golf course celebrated the grand opening of its new 16,100-square-foot practice putting green and short game facility, a dramatic upgrade from the previous 550-square-foot oval green. Designed by golf architect Todd Quitno and constructed over 11 months beginning in June 2024, the new facility stretches 65 yards with multiple chipping areas and features disease-resistant 007XL bentgrass. Village officials and KemperSports representatives emphasized the facility's role in building the game of golf, with the putting green featuring nine holes numbered 10-18 and dubbed "The Back 9 at the Muni Vernon Hills Golf Course," available for free public use with scorecards provided for tracking progress on the nine-hole routing.
April 2025
Nearly eight years after completing an ambitious renovation of its golf course in Addison, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is seeing its golf operation generate a lot of green.
Last year, the district collected $8.38 million in revenue from its three “golf preserves” — The Preserve at Oak Meadows in Addison, Maple Meadows in Wood Dale, and the 9-hole Green Meadows in Westmont.
Last year, the district collected $8.38 million in revenue from its three “golf preserves” — The Preserve at Oak Meadows in Addison, Maple Meadows in Wood Dale, and the 9-hole Green Meadows in Westmont.
Last year the Illinois PGA’s newest big thing was the addition of a season-long team competition that was well received by section members. This year’s newest big thing is more far-reaching.
The Illinois PGA Open Series tees off on Monday at White Eagle in Naperville. That’ll be the first of six one-day tournaments open to IPGA professionals (members and associates), amateurs with a handicap index under 10.0 and other professionals at least 18 years old. Players under 18 may be accepted but must submit a playing resume first.
The Illinois PGA Open Series tees off on Monday at White Eagle in Naperville. That’ll be the first of six one-day tournaments open to IPGA professionals (members and associates), amateurs with a handicap index under 10.0 and other professionals at least 18 years old. Players under 18 may be accepted but must submit a playing resume first.
Tickets are on sale now for LIV Golf's return to Bolingbrook Golf Club on Aug. 8-10 for the second year of LIV Golf Chicago, according to a news release.
According to a release, the League’s 13 four-player teams feature a collective 14 major champions with a combined 28 major championships, including: 2024 LIV Golf Individual Champion, Jon Rahm (Legion XIII), 2024 Team Champion & Ripper GC captain Cameron Smith, Bryson DeChambeau (Crushers GC), Brooks Koepka (Smash GC), Phil Mickelson (HyFlyers GC), Dustin Johnson (4Aces GC), Sergio Garcia (Fireballs GC), Joaquin Niemann (Torque GC), Tyrrell Hatton (Legion XIII) and many more.
According to a release, the League’s 13 four-player teams feature a collective 14 major champions with a combined 28 major championships, including: 2024 LIV Golf Individual Champion, Jon Rahm (Legion XIII), 2024 Team Champion & Ripper GC captain Cameron Smith, Bryson DeChambeau (Crushers GC), Brooks Koepka (Smash GC), Phil Mickelson (HyFlyers GC), Dustin Johnson (4Aces GC), Sergio Garcia (Fireballs GC), Joaquin Niemann (Torque GC), Tyrrell Hatton (Legion XIII) and many more.
Revenue generated by all three golf courses run by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County totaled $8.38 million last year, the agency’s director of golf said Tuesday.
The district owns The Preserve at Oak Meadows in Addison, sister course Maple Meadows in Wood Dale and the 9-hole Green Meadows in Westmont. The $8.38 million in combined revenue was the highest total on record for the district’s three “golf preserves,” Ed Stevenson confirmed.
The district owns The Preserve at Oak Meadows in Addison, sister course Maple Meadows in Wood Dale and the 9-hole Green Meadows in Westmont. The $8.38 million in combined revenue was the highest total on record for the district’s three “golf preserves,” Ed Stevenson confirmed.
KemperSports announced today the launch of Frequent Fairways – a proprietary loyalty program that gives golfers in Chicagoland, the Mid-Atlantic and the Northeast, U.S., a chance to play more courses and earn more rewards. This season, members can download the KemperSports Frequent Fairways app and earn rewards as they play rounds across their region.
Lakemoor trustees have voted to annex a golf course so that the property can be redeveloped as a solar farm, despite reservations by some nearby residents.
Trustees voted last week to annex into the village the Pistakee Country Club and to issue a conditional-use permit for the solar farm to operate. The property borders Lakemoor on multiple sides. The golf course property at 815 Bay Road, near the intersection of Bay and Cuhlman roads, was unincorporated but had a McHenry address.
Trustees voted last week to annex into the village the Pistakee Country Club and to issue a conditional-use permit for the solar farm to operate. The property borders Lakemoor on multiple sides. The golf course property at 815 Bay Road, near the intersection of Bay and Cuhlman roads, was unincorporated but had a McHenry address.
This week finds Haney, 69, far away from golf’s most intense spotlight in Augusta. He’s teaching at the new Hank Haney Golf Studio in Deerfield, just a mile or so from his boyhood home. Instead of working with the best of the best, Haney now instructs amateur players of all ages and abilities, ranging from low handicappers to the dreamer who just wants to break 90.
The latest chapter in Haney’s life has been an unlikely twist. He is back living in his hometown for the first time in more than 40 years, teaching a similar level of players as when he broke in as a young professional at Exmoor Country Club in Highland Park.
The latest chapter in Haney’s life has been an unlikely twist. He is back living in his hometown for the first time in more than 40 years, teaching a similar level of players as when he broke in as a young professional at Exmoor Country Club in Highland Park.
The Pistakee Country Club could soon be converted to a solar farm in Lakemoor – but neighbors living nearby have issues with it.
Many neighbors spoke against the proposal in a standing-room-only zoning board hearing last month. Among their concerns is the potential impact of the solar farm on the nearby Chain O’ Lakes and property values, and how much noise it would generate.
Many neighbors spoke against the proposal in a standing-room-only zoning board hearing last month. Among their concerns is the potential impact of the solar farm on the nearby Chain O’ Lakes and property values, and how much noise it would generate.
March 2025
NBC 5 Chicago said a cockpit warning light came on in the station's helicopter, indicating an engine problem. Elgin Fire Chief Rob Cagann said the engine problem specifically involved overheated oil temperature.
The pilot of the Sky 5 chopper made a precautionary landing at the Wing Park golf course.
"They were able to find Wing Park here to be able to put it down safely without any incident," said Cagann.
The pilot of the Sky 5 chopper made a precautionary landing at the Wing Park golf course.
"They were able to find Wing Park here to be able to put it down safely without any incident," said Cagann.
Troon is pleased to announce a 10-year management agreement renewal with the Chicago Park District to manage the City of Chicago’s eight golf facilities. Indigo Sports, a Troon company, will continue to operate and maintain Chicago’s six golf courses, three driving ranges and one miniature golf course, while providing outstanding guest service and innovative golf programs focused on increasing engagement of underrepresented communities.
A helicopter with a mechanical problem landed on a South Side golf course Monday night, Chicago Fire Department officials said.
CFD said in a post on X just before 6:30 p.m. that the helicopter landed on Jackson Park Golf Course in the 6200-block of South Richards Drive, near the first hole.
People were left shocked at the golf course after watching the helicopter lower from the sky, as the pilot was forced to make an emergency landing.
CFD said in a post on X just before 6:30 p.m. that the helicopter landed on Jackson Park Golf Course in the 6200-block of South Richards Drive, near the first hole.
People were left shocked at the golf course after watching the helicopter lower from the sky, as the pilot was forced to make an emergency landing.
Illinois’ Winnetka Golf Club was recognized with the Green to a Tee Award at the recent KemperSports Leadership Conference banquet, celebrating its commitment to environmental sustainability. In a historic achievement, Winnetka Golf Club became the first facility in the history of KemperSports to complete all four levels of Green to a Tee certification in a single year, including earning Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Certification.
After a few months of quiet, gun-related arrests at the Topgolf in Naperville have started up again, with police apprehending three suspects in the past month on firearm charges in and near the facility’s parking lot.
Arrests occurred Feb.1, Feb. 11 and March 1, which was this past Saturday. Prior to February, the last gun-related arrest outside the 3211 Odyssey Court venue was in late October, according to Naperville police spokeswoman Kelley Munch.
Arrests occurred Feb.1, Feb. 11 and March 1, which was this past Saturday. Prior to February, the last gun-related arrest outside the 3211 Odyssey Court venue was in late October, according to Naperville police spokeswoman Kelley Munch.
The best public golf courses of Illinois stretch from Chicagoland to the Quad Cities and down to the state's southern border.
GolfPass releases a Top 25 Public Golf Courses in Illinois every year thanks to YOU. We create our annual Golfers' Choice lists by curating the reviews submitted by everyday golfers. We use GolfPass' Ratings Index logic that weights newer reviews and combine it with a course's subcategory averages.
GolfPass releases a Top 25 Public Golf Courses in Illinois every year thanks to YOU. We create our annual Golfers' Choice lists by curating the reviews submitted by everyday golfers. We use GolfPass' Ratings Index logic that weights newer reviews and combine it with a course's subcategory averages.
Chicago Cubs fans can experience Wrigley Field in a unique way this spring as Upper Deck Golf returns to the Friendly Confines.
According to the Cubs, a nine-hole course will return to Wrigley Field in mid-April, giving golfers a chance to hit shots at a variety of targets around the ballpark.
“We are excited to host Upper Deck Golf at Wrigley Field during golf’s biggest weekend,” said Andy Blackburn of Wrigley Field Events. “We look forward to celebrating with some unique Cubs Golf apparel, fun activations and viewing opportunities.”
According to the Cubs, a nine-hole course will return to Wrigley Field in mid-April, giving golfers a chance to hit shots at a variety of targets around the ballpark.
“We are excited to host Upper Deck Golf at Wrigley Field during golf’s biggest weekend,” said Andy Blackburn of Wrigley Field Events. “We look forward to celebrating with some unique Cubs Golf apparel, fun activations and viewing opportunities.”
February 2025
Ready to swing into action? This weekend, the Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont is hosting the 40th annual Chicago Golf Association event. The event 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. Mike Gilligan, with the Chicago District Golf Association stopped by ABC 7 Eyewitness News to discuss the golf galore event.
Zinkand Golf Design, led by golf course architect David Zinkand and his more than 25 years of experience designing, managing and shaping projects in the field – has completed a multi-year bunker and greens restoration project at suburban Chicago’s Old Elm Club.
Thanks to the course’s one-of-a-kind design pedigree, the engagement represented a unique opportunity for ZGD and its principal designer, David Zinkand. Harry S. Colt routed the golf course in 1913 during one of his rare visits to the United States. Donald Ross then led the construction, including its greens, during his absence. Together, these two legends of the “Golden Age” of golf course architecture are credited with 16 designs among GOLF Magazine’s 2023-24 Top 100 Courses in the World. Yet Old Elm, recently ranked among GOLF Magazine’s 2024-25 Top 100 Courses in the U.S., represents the only project where the two men crossed paths.
Thanks to the course’s one-of-a-kind design pedigree, the engagement represented a unique opportunity for ZGD and its principal designer, David Zinkand. Harry S. Colt routed the golf course in 1913 during one of his rare visits to the United States. Donald Ross then led the construction, including its greens, during his absence. Together, these two legends of the “Golden Age” of golf course architecture are credited with 16 designs among GOLF Magazine’s 2023-24 Top 100 Courses in the World. Yet Old Elm, recently ranked among GOLF Magazine’s 2024-25 Top 100 Courses in the U.S., represents the only project where the two men crossed paths.
Ed Stevenson, 52, who resides in Wood Dale, is being honored statewide for his contributions to golf.
Now director of golf for the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Stevenson has been named PGA Golf Executive of the Year 2024 by the Illinois PGA. It’s “one of the highest honors the Illinois PGA can bestow,” according to a description posted by the organization, adding that “candidates must possess outstanding qualities of leadership, vision, courage, strong moral character, and a substantial record of service to … the game of golf.”
Now director of golf for the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Stevenson has been named PGA Golf Executive of the Year 2024 by the Illinois PGA. It’s “one of the highest honors the Illinois PGA can bestow,” according to a description posted by the organization, adding that “candidates must possess outstanding qualities of leadership, vision, courage, strong moral character, and a substantial record of service to … the game of golf.”
The Chicago Golf Show, the unofficial start to the Chicago golf season, kicks off its 40th anniversary season on Feb. 28 at the Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont.
Hank Haney, longtime swing coach for Tiger Woods, will appear on the Daily Herald Main Stage on the last two days (March 1-2) of the show. This year’s show will have a notable new feature — free club fitting courtesy of Aurora-based Matt Pekarek. He’s among the Top 100 Club Fitters selected by Golf Digest and is Nippon Shaft’s Aftermath Director for North and South America.
Hank Haney, longtime swing coach for Tiger Woods, will appear on the Daily Herald Main Stage on the last two days (March 1-2) of the show. This year’s show will have a notable new feature — free club fitting courtesy of Aurora-based Matt Pekarek. He’s among the Top 100 Club Fitters selected by Golf Digest and is Nippon Shaft’s Aftermath Director for North and South America.
Like so many golf courses across the country, Winnetka (Ill.) Golf Club had a water problem. Unlike so many, its problem was too much of it.
“I reviewed some of the numbers,” says Andrew Garner, Winnetka GC’s director of agronomy and nine-year GCSAA member, “and the golf course would be open for half of a playable season because of too much rain. One inch of rain would have the golf course closed for maybe a week. They didn’t have continuous cart paths, and the golf course is in a low-lying area, so it wouldn’t dry out very quickly. It made it tough for maintenance.”
“I reviewed some of the numbers,” says Andrew Garner, Winnetka GC’s director of agronomy and nine-year GCSAA member, “and the golf course would be open for half of a playable season because of too much rain. One inch of rain would have the golf course closed for maybe a week. They didn’t have continuous cart paths, and the golf course is in a low-lying area, so it wouldn’t dry out very quickly. It made it tough for maintenance.”
The golf-mad Midwest is reportedly set to take the golf dome concept to a new level. According to WSPY News, a project called Megalodome is under development for the village of Oswego, Ill., located in the western suburbs of Chicago, just south of the town of Aurora.
The Megalodome plan features not one but four gigantic inflatable domes that will sit side-by-side. Whereas many golf domes are barely 100 yards from end to end, Megalodome's individual domes will be 300 feet wide and 900 feet long, rising as much as 115 feet high in the middle.
The Megalodome plan features not one but four gigantic inflatable domes that will sit side-by-side. Whereas many golf domes are barely 100 yards from end to end, Megalodome's individual domes will be 300 feet wide and 900 feet long, rising as much as 115 feet high in the middle.
Sixty miles west of Chicago and centered on Route 64, Sycamore, Illinois is home to Sub 70, a golf company leading with a Midwest approach.
“I grew up in Hinkley, Illinois—still live in Sycamore. It’s in your soul so, it’s impossible to not have that Midwest angle of how we present the brand because we try to be real and authentic,” said Jason Hiland, founder and owner of Sub 70. “If you’re a Midwest golf company, it’s like, well that’s our brand. That’s kind of the sense we get when people come and visit us.”
“I grew up in Hinkley, Illinois—still live in Sycamore. It’s in your soul so, it’s impossible to not have that Midwest angle of how we present the brand because we try to be real and authentic,” said Jason Hiland, founder and owner of Sub 70. “If you’re a Midwest golf company, it’s like, well that’s our brand. That’s kind of the sense we get when people come and visit us.”
A Highland Park golf club will install new netting the height of Chicago’s first skyscrapers because of an ongoing issue of errant golf balls landing on school property across the street.
According to city documents, the Northmoor Country Club installed 70-foot-tall safety nets at its driving range in 2006. While those nets may seem towering in person, the club is aware that “from time to time” golf balls hit on the range travel beyond the netting, across Edgewood Road and end up on the property of Edgewood Middle School.
According to city documents, the Northmoor Country Club installed 70-foot-tall safety nets at its driving range in 2006. While those nets may seem towering in person, the club is aware that “from time to time” golf balls hit on the range travel beyond the netting, across Edgewood Road and end up on the property of Edgewood Middle School.
January 2025
Barrington-based Northwest Golf Academy and Performance Center recently expanded adding two new Trackman digital teaching and practice bays in an adjacent space.
The 6,000-square-foot center, which opened last summer, now has six fully-equipped practice bays and a putting green at 756 W. Northwest Hwy.
The 6,000-square-foot center, which opened last summer, now has six fully-equipped practice bays and a putting green at 756 W. Northwest Hwy.
The Homewood-Flossmoor Park District’s Coyote Run Golf Course in Flossmoor set a record in 2024 with 40,261 rounds of golf played. That is a 6.4% increase over 2023, according to Tom Denklau, course manager.
The golf season stretched from Feb. 3 to Dec. 30. Denklau said the course was open 333 days in 2024. The opening day for the 2025 season will be weather dependent.
The golf season stretched from Feb. 3 to Dec. 30. Denklau said the course was open 333 days in 2024. The opening day for the 2025 season will be weather dependent.
Schaumburg Park District Executive Director Tony LaFrenere has been named the 2025 PGA of America Golf Executive of the Year.
The honor recognizes outstanding services in an executive management position, as well as leadership, vision, courage, moral character and a substantial record of service to the association and the game of golf.
The honor recognizes outstanding services in an executive management position, as well as leadership, vision, courage, moral character and a substantial record of service to the association and the game of golf.
Landscapes Golf Management has been selected by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County of Illinois to operate Settler’s Hill Golf Course in Batavia and Hughes Creek Golf Club in Elburn, both located within an hour west of Chicago.