GGM Delaware Valley 2024

COVER FEATURE

Congrats to Makefield Highland GC on their 20th birthday, a resounding success story, well located perfectly in Bucks County, just across the New Jersey line. A great course, with a top rated public range and the Makefield Public House to serve and entertain all.

PHILMONT COUNTRY CLUB

Long on the list of top Philadelphia clubs, Philmont Country Club celebrates its North courses 100th year by honoring 2 members who’ve represented the club locally, nationally and all over the world for the past 60 years, Mike Rose and his sister Bonnie George.

STAY & PLAY

Thinking of going on a golf vacation but your budget is a bit tight. Drive only a few miles to Montgomery County PA for 50 courses, 80+ hotels, 1600 restaurants and much more. In New Jersey, you can STAY & PLAY at the Renault Winery or LBI National, formerly Sea Oaks GC.

THE ROSE FACTOR

Bet you can’t name me one new golf course that’s opened since 2005, but you can probably name some of the 22 that have closed. With golf booming thanks to COVID, players are not only mobbing existing courses, they are also going indoors and using simulators. An interesting trend.

LPGA TOUR

Women’s sports are growing like

all over the world and golf is no exception. This year, the Delaware Valley gets the LPGA TOUR back to back, with the US Women’s Open at Lancaster CC in late May, followed by the Shoprite LPGA at Seaview. Tickets will be tight, get yours while they last.

NoThe Publisher’s Blog

snow again this winter but lots of rain, meaning golfers are moving indoors more than ever, with indoor golf clubs and playing courses on simulators. THE ROSE FACTOR investigates the trend. Our cover feature takes us to one of my favorite public courses, the popular and very successful Makefield Highlands GC, just over the NJ/PA border in Bucks County. Makefield celebrates its 20th birthday this year, so take advantage, and play the course, sample their top 50 TOP TRACER range and enjoy all the food and amenities of Makefield’s Public House. Philmont Country Club, my stomping grounds for 60 years, will celebrate their North courses 100th year, and will honor its history with special events, while building for the future with many improvements on the course and in the clubhouse. They’re even inviting you to play the North at a reduced rate. Don’t miss that opportunity. Also be sure to check out our annual STAY & PLAY section and follow the LPGA TOUR as they visit Lancaster CC, followed the next week by the Shoprite LPGA at Seaview. And yes, I’m back on 975 The Fanatic for my 35th year, with my golf reports, “Pick the Winner” contests and our new “betGOLF/bet PARX golf wagering segment. Play the heat this year with GREAT GOLF, PARX Casino and the Sportsbook App.

See you on the tour.

Philmont Country Club

Nestled amid the lush greenery of Huntingdon Valley lies a haven for golf enthusiasts and aficionados alike - Philmont Country Club. Philmont has a long and storied history, going back to its founding in 1906, quickly becoming one of the region’s most elite clubs. One of the defining features of Philmont is its commitment to fostering a sense of community among its members. Beyond the fairways, the club offers an array of amenities including tennis courts, swimming pool, and fine dining, creating a vibrant social hub for its members to enjoy leisure and camaraderie.

It started with its South Course, designed by John Reid, a ScottishAmerican businessman who has been called “The Father of Golf” in the United States. In 1924, Philmont expanded its offerings with the addition of the North Course, designed by the legendary Willie Park Jr. Not only was Park Jr. a prolific player with three wins in the Open Championship, but he was also a renowned clubmaker, golf writer, and architect with more than 170 golf course designs to his name. The North Course, with its strategic bunkering and perplexing greens, soon became listed among the top local courses, and played host to numerous prestigious events, showcasing the club's enduring legacy of excellence. Its combination of natural beauty and challenging terrain attracted golfers from far and wide, cementing Philmont's reputation as a premier golfing destination.

Philmont is undergoing a transformative shift, marking a new chapter in its storied history. With the unveiling of its ambitious redevelopment plan, the South Course is set to embrace the future while preserving the essence of its prestigious legacy. The most notable aspect of this transformation is the conversion of 10 holes into the exquisite 178 unit Philmont Villas, offering residents a blend of luxurious living and exclusive access to the club's amenities. This strategic initiative not only fosters a sense of community but also ensures that members have unparalleled access to the club's facilities, enhancing their overall experience.

In a nod to environmental stewardship and community development, four holes of the South Course have been reserved for infrastructure projects and open space. This gesture underscores Philmont's dedication to supporting the surrounding area while preserving its natural beauty for generations to come. Moreover, the club is investing in the enhancement of its practice facilities, earmarking four holes for this purpose. In July of 2023, members were delighted by the unveiling of a new short game practice area, providing them with a space to refine their skills and elevate their game. Looking ahead, Philmont is poised to introduce a state-of-the-art driving range in the summer of 2024, further solidifying its status as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts.

Complementing these additions is the 1906 at Philmont, a premier Catering Center that promises to redefine the standards of elegance and sophistication. Boasting a new lobby and bar, an enhanced ballroom, and an exquisite outdoor ceremony area, the 1906 at Philmont sets the stage for unforgettable events and gatherings. The renovations extend to the Golf clubhouse, where members will discover not one, but two distinguished dining venues. The 1906 Grille exudes refined charm, while the Willie Park pub offers a cozy ambiance perfect for unwinding after a day on the greens. With the addition of an expansive outdoor dining patio accommodating up to 80 guests, members can savor culinary delights amidst the beauty of nature.

A nod to its rich heritage, Philmont Country Club introduces a new entry point on Gimbel Lane, an homage to the founding member (Ellis Gimbel) whose vision laid the foundation for this esteemed institution. This revitalized entrance will welcome guests with grace and prestige, setting the tone for an unparalleled experience.

Meanwhile, tennis enthusiasts are in for a treat with the unveiling of the all-new Tennis Center. Featuring multiple courts designed to meet the highest standards of play, the Tennis Center will also feature six dedicated pickleball courts, catering to the burgeoning popularity of this dynamic sport.

As Philmont Country Club continues to evolve, these enhancements underscore its commitment to excellence and innovation. To inquire about membership sales at Philmont Country Club, you can contact the club directly at membership@philmontcc.org. If you're interested

in a membership tour and course preview, you can email Chris Wegner, PGA General Manager, at cwegner@philmontcc.org.

(continued on page 20)

BUTTER VALLEY

A PICTURESQUE GOLF COURSE IN MONTGOMERY COU NTRY

JOHN GEHMAN IS ONE OF a long line of family who have lived on and cared for their land in the “butter valley” (so called for its history of dairy farming) near Boyertown in Montgomery County.

“In the 1960s my parents wondered if it made sense to continue operating the dairy farm. Even though it was one of the larger, more progressive operations” Gehman explains. Neighbors and friends thought the farm’s rolling terrain would make a great golf course. “So, my dad did a feasibility study by visiting courses on Sundays. When he saw the full parking lots, he agreed this was a great idea,” says Gehman.

The Gehmans designed and constructed the course themselves with the help of three local golfers who went into the fields to hit balls. “My dad (did all) and was the ‘irrigation technician’, even though he had no training,” Gehman remembers. Butter Valley Golf Port’s 18-hole course opened in 1969. When his parents retired in 1988, John and his family took over.

WHAT ABOUT THOSE AIR PLANES?

Gehman’s father learned to fly in 1946 and built an airstrip on the property. It moved in 1967 to accommodate the golf course, which officially opened for business in 1969.

A longer strip went in before the course was built and is now part of the playing experience, lying between the 10th and 15th fairways. Visitors are greeted by the sight of small planes parked nearby and may see increased fly-ins on weekends. Airport services include tie-down, hangar space and repair.

THE COURSE

Butter Valley Golf Course, an 18-hole, family-friendly, par- 72 facility equipped with a small airport in Montgomery County. You will find the turf quality and course conditions are optimal all year long.

Upgrades have included new greens, tees, and other changes to make the course more challenging. In 1988, a major redesign took place when new holes were added, and the course lengthened. More recently, the 6th green was rebuilt, and the 3rd hole was made into a par 5, raising the current par for the course to 72. Expansion has included new back tees on the 2nd, 4th, 16th, and 17th holes. Trees have been responsibly removed not only making the course more playable but providing necessary air flow and sunlight to the greens. New forward tees have been added which allows our more senior players to play competitively in leagues and enjoy golf again.

Something else that sets this rural golf course apart are the spacious pastoral scenic views as opposed to the crowded-in condos on many golf courses. There are multiple elevation changes making this course challenging but fair for all skill levels.

John wants to encourage more families to golf and bring young people into the game. To encourage an inviting, family friendly experience, Butter Valley Golf Course runs several specials, including evening rates starting at 6 p.m. where a young family of four can enjoy an evening out in the beautiful environment, connecting with each other and golf balls! Clubs can be rented for a small fee for both youth and adults. It is a great way to get the younger generation interested without making an investment in golf clubs.

Other options to keep golfing fun and affordable includes seasonal and other discount passes and programs, winter rates, periodic specials, reasonable cart fees, and lessons for all ages and ability levels with a 50-year veteran of the game.

Gary Brooks, the golf instructor, is available for lessons; and there are several leagues for ladies, men, and seniors. Butter Valley has a fully stocked pro shop and a banquet room suitable for work or family gatherings.

You cannot play a round of golf without stopping by the Runway Grill. Their burgers and sandwiches are well known and a must have among the golfers.

Take the short drive to Butter Valley Golf Course. Experience the scenic views and beautifully maintained course just minutes away in Montgomery County. If you prefer you can fly in for a round!

PLAN YOUR VISIT, TODAY!

610.845.2491 • ButterValley.com

3243 Gehman Rd, Barto, Pa

303 W. Ridge Pike Limerick, PA 19468

(610) 489-5133

www.turtlecreekgolf.com

Architect: Edward Beidel

Superintendent: John Welsh

Par: 72 Yardage: 6,702

Rating: 72.2 Slope: 123

This championship 18 hole course is a good test for golfers of all skill levels, with 9 water hazards and mature trees throughout the course. Turtle Creek hosts top tournaments including this year’s PPGA BetterBall Championship. Superintendent John Welsh, a Penn State grad, maintains this public course with top notch conditions, earning TCGC 4 1⁄2 stars from Golf Digest Places to Play. Our big top tent can host 15-150 for your outing, wedding or charity event. Our new BYOC policy - Bring your own Caterer - gives you more freedom and choice to make your own event great! Turtle Creek Golf Course is the only course in the area that has stall and grass tee driving ranges available for TCGC players. Course dog Nittany is standing by to welcome you!

Montco Golf

With over 50 public and private golf courses, luxurious amenities, and onsite dining, Montgomery County, PA is the perfect year-round destination for a memorable golf getaway.

More than 20 of Montco’s golf courses are open to the public and accommodate golfers of all skill levels and budgets. Visit Macoby Run Golf Course in Green Lane to play 18 holes while taking in stunning views of lush forests and meadows, or enjoy the country club experience at Raven’s Claw Golf Club in Pottstown. More advanced golfers can put their skills to the test through the challenging courses at Westover Golf Club in Norristown.

You’ll also find private golf courses offering an impressive array of amenities. Golf in style at the elegant Philadelphia Country Club, which dates back to 1890 and is one of the oldest courses in the country. Or enjoy a golf outing with the whole family at the Blue Bell Country Club, a premiere family-friendly country club with an 18-hole course designed by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer himself, an on-site restaurant, and elegant event spaces.

Most of Montgomery County’s golf courses are just a short drive from some of areas top attractions, restaurants, and shopping destinations.

If you are in the Blue Bell area, check out the Blue Bell Inn, which boasts one of the best brunches in the region. If you are playing near King of Prussia, head over to the King of Prussia Mall for some shopping or visit the King of Prussia Town Center, where you’ll have your pick of just about any cuisine you could desire. Feeling lucky? Stay, play, and dine at the Valley Forge Casino Resort. Or spend some more time outdoors visiting Valley Forge National Historical Park or the John James Audubon Center. And don’t forget to visit one of the local breweries for a good beer and bite to eat!

For more help planning your golf trip, visit montcogolf.com for some curated golf itineraries and the Montco Golf Guide.

Vineyard golf. Championship play.

yourself in the beautiful mountains of Historic Wellsboro, Pennsylvania and enjoy a scenic round of golf at Tyoga. We have all that you need, lunch and dinner, a fully stocked bar and a course maintained in perfect condition. All you’ll need to worry about is your golf game.

(continued from page 9)

Philmont, known for its storied history, has seen generations of great golfers grace its fairways. Among them, the Rose family stands out as testament to skill, dedications and a love of the game that spans 6 decades.

At the forefront was Bobbie Rose, a pioneer of women’s golf at Philmont and an inspiring legend to WGAP golfers, one of only a select few given honorary membership. Joining Philmont in 1961, Bobbie wasted little time etching her name in the club annals, winning the club championship and also the inaugural GOLD KEY. Over the next 6 decades, Bobbie won numerous WGAP events, including 4 Mother-Daughters and 11 Griscom Cups. She won the WGAP Super Seniors (65 & over) at age 92. At age 103, Bobbie could be found on Philmont’s range, banging out balls and giving lessons to fellow members

Bonnie Rose George, got her golfing start at Philmont in the 1970’s, going from 36 handicap to scratch in just a few years. Over the last 50 years, Bonnie has won 23 club championships and 7 GOLD KEY titles at the club. She has won many WGAP and PA GAP events, and like her mother, dominated senior and super senior divisions. She also played in 12 USGA championships and won gold for the USA team at the Maccabi Games in Israel. Winning the 4 Mater et Filia titles with Mom and the WGAP Boyle Cup with brother Mike, are among her proudest memories.

Michael Rose loved all sports growing up but made golf his game for a lifetime after joining Philmont. It wasn’t till after college and a 5 year start in the business world, that Mike’s game took off. Over the last 50 years, Mike has won over 60 events, with winning GAP’s coveted Silver Cross in 1977 a breakthrough moment. He’s won the GAP Mid –Am, Senior Am, Super-Senior AM and both PLAYER OF THE YEAR titles. Mike holds the record with 6 straight TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS wins and 20 titles in WGAP events, playing with Mom, Bonnie and wife Sally. Mike played in 4 USGA events, 5 R & A events and won 2 gold medals for the USA at the Maccabi Games. And yes, add 11 Philmont Club Championships to the list.

The Rose Family’s enduring legacy transcends individual achievements, earning them well-deserved recognition in the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. As Philmont commemorates its North Course centenary, the Roses are set to receive honorary membership, cementing their place in the club’s rich tapestry of history and inspiring generations of golfers to come.

HOLE-IN-ONE REPORT

Nothing beats scoring an ace, or maybe something else does. Local pro

Billy Stewart, holed a 3-wood from 240 yards with a 3-wood at Scranton CC 18th hole par 5 to score a double-eagle 2. Sweet!! And how about Jake Young at Manor GC. He holed a driver on par 4 #7 from 267 yards. Now here’s a list of the more mundane aces in the last 6 months.

Report your hole-in-one or other newsworthy golf story to GREAT GOLF MAGAZINE, by email to: rosefactor@aol.com. And be sure to tune in to 975 The Fanatic for MIKE ROSE’S Golf Reports, heard each weekday during AM and PM drive time, for the latest golf news and to enter our “PICK THE WINNER” contests.

Lwww.juniatagolfcourse.com

1391 E Cayuga St.

Philadelphia, PA 19124

(215) 743-4060

Architect: Ed Ault

General Manager: Robert Wheeler

Par: 66 Yardage: 5,275

Rating: 64.8 Slope: 109

ocated just minutes north of center city Philadelphia, Juniata Golf Club is an 18-hole golf course designed by renowned golf architect, Ed Ault. Presently managed by the non-profit corporation, Juniata Golf Foundation, this classic course is considered a hidden treasure by many locals and offers a wide array of unique and challenging holes. Completed in 1930, Juniata Golf Club was designed to take advantage of its naturally-rolling terrain. Adding to the challenge is Frankford Creek that makes its presence known on a total of six holes.

l

We’re Building Game Changers.

We believe all kids deserve to feel excited to grow, safe to fail, and better equipped for whatever comes at them next. At First Tee, we do this by helping them develop their swing, but more importantly, their inner strength; with coaches who help them navigate the course as well as guide them through new challenges. Because we know what’s inside doesn’t just count; it changes the game.

www.kimbertongolfclub.com

F162 Ridge Road Phoenixville, PA 19460

(610) 933-8836

Architect: George Fazio

PGA Professional: Jimmy Maack

Par: 70 Yardage: 6,304

Rating: 69.7 Slope: 121

or over 50 years, Kimberton Golf Club has welcomed golfers from all around the region, for a friendly round of golf, for local outings and as a great test for top notch tournaments. Opened in 1962, Kimberton was designed by renowned golf course architect George Fazio. This off season, we have worked hard to bring about some great changes to the facility, both outside on the course itself, as well as inside, with our brand new sports bar and restaurant. Our goal is to preserve the integrity and great history of this famed design. Come check us out this spring to see what the buzz is all about.

FEATURES / AMENITIES

l Outing and Banquets Welcome

l Senior Discounts

l Lessons

l Walking Anytime

l Fully Stocked Pro Shop

www.landiscreekgolfclub.com

L765 N. Lewis Rd. Limerick, PA 19468

(610) 495-6945

Architect: William Gordon

Director of Golf: Jason Hilz

Par: 70 Yardage: 6,019

Rating: 67.9 Slope: 113

andis Creek Golf Club is your stop in the region for great golf and outings. This open to the public course features competitive rates, the Creekside Sports Bar for after your round, and the Loft at Landis Creek banquet facility for all your banquet needs. The course is consistently undergoing improvements as well. The property is great for outings and/or leagues, boasting an outdoor patio and patio bar that is open daily. Contact us today to book your tee time or to schedule your outing!

FEATURES / AMENITIES

l Major Course Improvements

l Outings Welcome

l Newly Remodeled Sports Bar

l Loft Banquet Facility

By Mike Rose

New Golf Courses, NONE!! Indoor Golf, PLENTY!!

The boom in building new golf courses took place in the period of 1993 – 2004. Golf then topped out and the economy also dipped. A bad combo. Things started to go the other way. The demand for housing was strong and builders saw golf courses as prime areas for their business. Municipalities were being pressed to have more open space too, courses were the answer. As COVID changed things, demand for golf exploded, tee sheets booked up. The answer came quickly – can’t play outdoors, play indoors, and with the breakthroughs in technology, golf simulators became the rage, allowing you to play at Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, Merion, etc. Pros giving lots of lessons, everyone getting their clubs fitted to specs. Indoor clubs and places like TOP GOLF are still the cheap way to go, compared to the expense of joining a private club or building a new course, acquiring land, water shortages, fertilizer and manpower for upkeep. How long will this trend last, we’ll see.

But hope springs eternal for new courses, starting next year, with the Mike Trout/Tiger Woods project at Trout National/The Reserve in Vineland. In 2026-27, the new Cobbs Creek course will open, with 18 championship holes designed by Gil Hanse, a 9-hole short course, state-of-the-art driving range and the Tiger Woods Community and Education Center. Only about $65 million to build it all, but it’ll be well worth it.