Zigfield Troy Golf

Zigfield Troy Golf Overview
Zigfield Troy, the namesake of this golf facility, was a man of distinction in the Illinois golf scene. Zigfield was only 19 years old when he opened his first driving range in Marquette Park in 1934. He dedicated his life to promoting the sport of golf and encouraging people to practice. He was Illinois PGA Professional of the Year in 1968. In 1976, he opened the current Zigfield Troy Golf facility in Woodridge. In 1980, the par-3 course opened. He was inducted into the Illinois Golf Hall of Fame posthumously in 1990.

Since Mr. Troy was all about practicing, let’s discuss that first. There’s a large sign hanging from the clubhouse that exclaims “Protect the environment - Practice!” The large driving range has 60 bays and is the core of the golf complex here. Both mats and grass tees are available, and in the colder months, a handful of those mats are moved closer to the clubhouse and heated. A large green is available for putting practice. Chipping and bunker practice is available too, for a small charge.

The par-3 course here is 1,030 yards; the longest hole is 140. It’s a straightforward affair, but it has a cult following. Rates to play are modest, and kids can play for free before 8AM on Mondays. In fact, there's been a multi-day tournament held here annually since 1982 called the Zigfield Troy Open which draws competitors from all around Chicagoland.

Tons of varied gear is available at Zigfield Troy’s large pro shop. Golf club demo days are held here, and they’re happy to help you with club fitting too. When I last visited, the pro shop is one of a handful in the area that stocks “Emily’s Excellent Golf Balls” -- an adorable entrepreneurial arrangement to sell used golf balls to raise money for 11-year-old Emily’s college fund. They come in small hand-labeled packs, and I think Mr. Troy himself would be proud of Emily’s gumption.

Lastly, there’s a miniature golf course here too, called Lost Mountain Adventure Golf. The Indiana Jones vibes, waterfalls, and tricky holes are fun for the whole family.