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By Kevin Scott Distinctive character, challenging design and hospitality define WildHawk WildHawk Golf Club. Sought after by every level of player, WildHawk is located in the vineyard community, in South Sacramento. Design, playability and customer service define the essence of the course and its facilities. JMP Golf Design designed the course before its opening in October 1997. The company is located in Belmont, California, and boasts of thirty years experience. JMP is famous for technically sound courses that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Southgate Park & Recreation District owns and operates WildHawk. “The property was donated for the purpose of building a golf course,” added Mr. Chuck Oldes, Golf Course Manager. Chuck has been associated with the District for over five years. He hails from a financial and technical background, which allows for a different approach to course management, emphasizing the business influence. WildHawk hosts six local high schools teams, and California State University, Sacramento. The facility is a First Tee of Greater Sacramento affiliate and sponsors a regional event for Golf Channel’s Chip, Putt and Drive program. The Kid’s Camp is one of Chuck’s favorites and in the past they have hosted over 50 kids. “We also have a strong woman’s program,” added Chuck. “The ladies tell us we treat them like they are at home!” Chuck loves the initials, WATC, meaning “What about the Customer.” “One of my favorite events is the Veteran’s Day Tournament, added Chuck. “If you are a Veteran the greens fees and lunch are on us. We advertise, and as you can imagine the event sells out quickly. It’s just our way of saying thanks to all the military people.” Chuck feels very fortunate to be working with the district and WildHawk. He is very proud of the extraordinary effort his 50 plus staff put into everyday operations. It is evident from the greens-keepers to the marshals these folks exhibit a CAN DO ATTITUDE to accommodate the needs of this course. I can tell it all originates from Chuck’s attitude and love of his job. “I couldn’t do my job without the staff and Mr. Ward Winchell, General Manger of the District,” emphasized Chuck. “I love working here, and consider myself very fortunate to be involved in such a large family.” “Its all about the customer,” emphasized Gerry Levesque, Course Superintendent. “The customer service is second-to-none, with each guest being treated like country club member.” Gerry has been in the golf business for thirty years, starting in San Theresa. Other facilities on Gerry’s resume include El Macero, the Champions Center and Roseville’s Rolling Greens Course. “I worked under Mr. Bob LeDeu and owe him so much. He was my mentor and taught me everything I know about the industry.” Gerry came to WildHawk during construction and planting of the greens. I am very fortunate to supervise this maintenance crew, and be involved with WildHawk,” added Gerry. |
The pro shop is under the watchful eye of Mr. Tony Schwartz, Head Golf Professional. Tony is affiliated with Titleist and is famous as a “club-fitter extraordinaire.” Tony was on a day off, so we did not have an opportunity to spend time with him. Matt Cirimele, Tournament Director. Matt graduated from CSU, Sacramento in 2000, with a degree in Marketing. He has recently passed his Player’s Ability Test for the PGA and is now an Apprentice with the PGA. He explained they host around two dozen fun tournaments a year, mostly fund raisers. “Wild hawk also supports 51,000 rounds a year, so it is tough to honor all the tournament requests we receive. We establish relationships with folks, added Matt. We have a very dedicated group of players such as the Player Association. They are four-hundred and fifty strong right now! The pro shop carries all the major brands of clothing and clubs. So if you are in the market for a custom set of clubs or a coordinated outfit WildHawk is the place to go! After a round you must visit the WildHawk Grille. Chuck insisted I chow-down on the WildHawk Cheeseburger with Fries. I was in Heaven! Mr. Jeff Stevens manages the grille under the ownership of “Center Plate,” which is responsible for the great food at “River Cats” games. Breakfast and Lunch are available at reasonable prices. There is also phone service on the ninth tee box! The course runs 6,718 yards from the gold tees, and features four sets of tees for all levels. It plays to par 72 with a course rating of 71.4, accompanied by a slope of 126. The greens are the best in the area. The fairways are guarded by trees, but wide and forgiving. Numerous bunkers protect essential landing areas and make approach shots challenging. All measurements are to the middle of the greens. If you see a blue flag add ten yards. The 18th hole is one of the greatest finishers in the area. It plays 530 yards with water to the right accompanied by a creek protecting the middle of the fairway. Keep the ball right. A long second shot is necessary. Hitting the green in two is only for the brave! An approach shot should come in from the left! The green is large, two-tiered and guarded by bunkers. Two-putt for par and get out of there! Once you play this wonderful venue, you will return! I know I will! Green fees are $42.00 on weekdays with cart and $52.00 weekends with cart. Senior and Junior rates are available! Tee times can be reserved 7-days in advance on line or by calling 916-688-GOLF.
WildHawk Golf Club
Golf Shop: 916-688-4653
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