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Writer's pictureDavid Holowchak

Open Yer Gates!!

Why Private Golf Courses Should Open to the Public Once a Week



Golf is known as a sport that brings people together, fostering community, competition, and a love of the outdoors. Yet, a significant portion of the most beautiful and well-maintained courses in the country remain closed off to most golfers—restricted to members only. While private golf courses have their place, there’s an increasing argument for why these exclusive clubs should open their gates to the public, at least one day a week. Here’s why doing so would benefit everyone involved.


1. Expanding Access to the Game


Golf has traditionally been seen as a sport for the elite, and private courses reinforce that perception. Allowing public access for just one day a week would open up these exclusive facilities to a broader audience, giving everyday golfers the chance to experience world-class conditions without needing to commit to expensive memberships.


Many golf lovers simply can’t afford membership fees but would jump at the opportunity to play on these pristine, often iconic courses. By opening up for one day, private clubs could introduce new golfers to the game and break down barriers that sometimes make the sport feel inaccessible.


2. Promoting Community Engagement


Private courses are often nestled within communities, but many local residents feel disconnected from them because they can’t access or enjoy the beauty of the course. Allowing public access once a week would strengthen the relationship between these courses and their surrounding communities.


Local residents, especially those who live near these courses, would finally have the chance to walk the fairways they’ve seen from a distance for years. This move would not only promote goodwill but also foster a deeper sense of community, bringing golfers and non-golfers alike together around a shared space.


3. Growing the Sport of Golf


Golf needs new players to grow, and giving people the opportunity to experience some of the best courses without needing to join an exclusive club could spark new interest in the game. Golfers who typically play on public courses might feel inspired by the experience, pushing them to improve their skills and seek out more golfing opportunities.


Opening private courses one day a week could serve as an entry point for young golfers or beginners who are interested in the sport but have yet to play on a top-tier course. By making high-end golfing experiences more accessible, these private clubs would be playing a role in growing the game for future generations.


4. Increased Revenue for Private Courses


Private golf courses often operate under the assumption that they must remain exclusive to maintain their appeal. But opening to the public one day a week could actually be a revenue booster without diluting the course’s exclusive atmosphere.


A designated public day could draw in visitors who are willing to pay premium prices for the chance to play at a prestigious club. Not only would this bring in additional revenue from greens fees, but it would also boost revenue in other areas, like the pro shop, dining facilities, or even lessons from the club’s golf professionals. Opening up, even briefly, would tap into a new revenue stream without compromising the member experience.


5. Demonstrating Inclusivity and Modern Values


In today’s world, where inclusivity and accessibility are more important than ever, private golf courses have the opportunity to show that they are evolving with the times. By designating a public day, these clubs would send a message that they value community and want to make golf more open to all.


This could go a long way in improving the overall perception of the game, which has long struggled with an image of exclusivity. Golf clubs that embrace these changes can align themselves with the modern values of inclusiveness, sustainability, and community involvement.


6. Opportunities for Charitable Events


Opening private courses to the public on select days could also provide an opportunity for hosting charitable events or fundraising tournaments. Imagine dedicating one of these public days to local charities, allowing the public to play while raising money for important causes. This would not only benefit the wider community but also enhance the reputation of the golf course as a place that gives back.


These events could become a tradition, helping to generate positive publicity for private clubs while contributing to meaningful causes. In this way, the public day could become a celebrated occasion, embraced by members and the community alike.


7. Encouraging Better Use of the Facility


Private courses are often underutilized during the week, especially during off-peak times. Allowing public access on a set day could help ensure that the course is used to its full potential. Golf courses are expensive to maintain, and having more players walk the fairways—without adding undue stress on the facilities—would be a win-win for clubs looking to maximize their investment.


By selecting quieter days, clubs can ensure that public play doesn’t interfere with their members’ experience, while still getting additional use from the course on days that would otherwise be lightly attended.


8. Building a Bridge Between Public and Private Golf


Public and private courses have traditionally operated in different spheres, often without much overlap. But by opening private courses to public players for one day a week, it would build a bridge between the two worlds. Public course players could see what private courses have to offer, while private clubs could foster a greater sense of appreciation for the overall golf ecosystem.


This interaction could lead to new memberships, increased interest in private club events, and a general sense of unity in the broader golfing community. When private clubs show that they are willing to share their resources, it strengthens the golf community as a whole.


Conclusion


Opening private golf courses to the public once a week could have tremendous benefits for golfers, clubs, and communities alike. It would expand access to world-class facilities, promote community engagement, grow the sport of golf, and potentially even increase revenue for private courses. At a time when inclusivity and accessibility are more important than ever, this small change could make a big difference in how the game of golf is perceived and enjoyed. It’s time for private clubs to unlock their gates and let the wider golfing community in—if only for one day a week.

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