MCHENRY GOLFCLUB NEWSLETTER
WHATTOEXPECTINTHISEDITION:
From the GM’s Desk
Save the Date
Pro Shop Note
Superintendent’s Update
Refreshed KemperCollection
FROMTHEGM’SDESK
Dear Members,
With the fall season officially upon us, we welcome cooler temperatures, vibrant foliage, and the crisp, enjoyable conditions that make autumn golf so special As we closed out September with some memorable events, we kicked off October with our final celebration of the season our “Season Ending Dinner Bash” and the last golf event of 2025, Hard Course Day
Events Update
September wrapped up on a high note with the return of the always-popular Heaven and Hell event, featuring its unique format and creative course setup We also hosted the annual McHenry Classic, a spirited competition pitting the Men against the Women for seasonal bragging rights It was a well-fought contest, with the Men claiming victory for 2025
The season concluded with Hard Course Day, a member favorite that challenges players with the most demanding hole locations our superintendent can design always a fun and fitting way to close out the year.
Food & Beverage Update
Our End of Season Dinner Bash was a resounding success, with over 100 members enjoying great food, music, and a warm, celebratory ambiance The evening concluded with a presentation highlighting the successes of the 2025 season and offering a preview of what’s ahead in 2026.
CLICK HERE for the presentation.
Looking ahead, please mark your calendars for the MGC Christmas Party on Friday, December 12th Stay tuned for more details we hope to see you there to share in some holiday cheer!
Our Continued Focus
As we enjoy the remaining weeks of golf-friendly weather, our attention turns to off-season preparations and setting the stage for a strong 2026. This includes:
Hiring key staff
Planning a fun and exciting calendar of events
Executing off-season projects on schedule
Completing and opening the Kitchen and Restaurant
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in the recent Club Survey. Your feedback is invaluable and plays a critical role in shaping our member experience We hear you, and your input directly influences our planning and priorities
Stay tuned for an upcoming update with Membership details, including the 2026 Dues Structure and a progress report on club amenity projects.
Let’s finish the season strong and enjoy all that autumn golf has to offer.
Play well, play fast, and enjoy!
Warm regards,
Rick Sutton, PGA GM / Head Professional
Christmas PARTY
SUPERINTENDENT’SUPDATE
Good morning McHenry Golf Club,
My name is Benjamin Ludwig, and I’m honored to introduce myself as your new golf course superintendent. I couldn’t be more excited to join the MGC team and begin this journey alongside the legendary Bob Lively, whose knowledge and dedication I deeply admire.
With over 17 years of experience in golf course maintenance, particularly in greens improvement across northern Illinois, and a lifelong passion for the game, I’m thrilled to bring my expertise to a course that holds such rich tradition and personal significance.
Fall has always been my favorite season, not only for playing golf, but for enhancing the course. As summer winds down, we enter a prime window for improvement projects. You’ll also notice some new faces on our maintenance crew as we build a strong, dedicated team. I’m pleased to announce that Patrick Herman has joined us as assistant superintendent. Patrick brings seven years of experience and has been a trusted colleague of mine in the past.
On behalf of the entire grounds crew, we wish you a wonderful fall season and look forward to restoring McHenry Golf Club to the exceptional standard it deserves.
Thank you,
Benjamin Ludwig Golf Course Superintendent
