Future of course unclear

Palm Coast Observer
Opinion

Continuing news of money failures by Grand Reserve owners has players who love the course shaking in their golf shoes. But the thoughts of a complete loss should not be that much of a worry.

When www.GoToby.com reported SunTrust has taken the title in lieu of foreclosure, the fears of closing the golf course grew.

First, the overall loan balances include huge amounts of land as well as the golf course. Several houses have been constructed on the property, but at least three are unsold.

Most importantly, the golf course will continue under the management of Capstone Golf, owned by Mike Pullen. Capstone has a significant investment in the clubhouse property, and the company’s intent is not to lose it. Capstone is quietly expressing a strong interest in the purchase of the golf course only. That wouldn’t include the vast amount of land.

Pullen confirmed this, but noted nothing could be negotiated or completed with the property in foreclosure at that time. The move of acceptance to SunTrust — avoiding foreclosure — may be part of a future plan.

Pullen has done a remarkable job with the golf course. Players are highly enthused about its condition. While some courses have faltered for one reason or another, Grand Reserve is in superb shape, and play increases weekly.

Based on what I’ve heard from people close to the situation, Grand Reserve is going to remain as a valued golf course, and that should ease players’ concerns.

Age and golf
Dick Hoover, playing a beat the pro game with the Matanzas Men’s Golf Association, shot the third-best round, with a handicap-adjusted score of 69. On the same day, Hoover was celebrating his 91st birthday — all of which proves again that the number from birth stamped on one’s forehead is meaningless.

Aces
The thrill of an ace never really ends. It matters not whether it’s your first, second, third or more.

Leading this week’s parade is Rick Schumacher, who took on Grand Reserve’s 13th hole from 118 yards out, using a pitching wedge.

With him on his first ace were wife Rae Ann, along with Karen Varriale and Sharon Walter.

The Grand Haven gals were not about to leave that one as a loner. Sara Lockhart nailed the eighth hole for her memory bank, and also her first hole-in-one.