NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2026
THE RIVER REPORT ________________________
PETE DYE RIVER COURSE OF VIRGINIA TECH
YOUR CLUB
CLUB CONTACTS
HOURS OF OPERATION
CLUBHOUSE, EVENTS & ADMINISTRATIVE
PRESTON’S RESTAURANT*
Kari Kendall | General Manager kkendall@petedyerivercourse.com
Monday I CLOSED Tuesday I CLOSED Wednesday I 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Thursday I 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Friday I 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Saturday I 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Sunday I 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
FOOD AND BEVERAGE Nick Stuth | Kitchen Manager chef@petedyerivercourse.com
GOLF SHOP*
GOLF
Monday-Thursday I 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Friday-Sunday I 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
DJ Shively | Resident Golf Professional dj.shively@petedyerivercourse.com
PRACTICE FACILITIES Open 30 minutes prior to first tee time Closes at dusk Sundays I Closed from 5:00 pm
GROUNDS Greg Caldwell | Golf Course Superintendent greg.caldwell@petedyerivercourse.com
CLUB NUMBERS Main Office .................540.633.6732 Golf Shop.....................540.633.6732 Restaurant...................540.633.2667 Special Events............540.633.1807 *Hours are subject to change
BUSINESS OFFICE Amanda Ferguson | HR & Accounting aferguson@petedyerivercourse.com
IN THIS ISSUE Your Club...……………….….....….….....…............….........2 The Corner Office...................................................3 On The Links............................................................4 Instructional TIps....................................................5 Turf Talk.....................................................................6 Events.........................................................................7 Never miss out on a club event, the latest McConnell Golf news or the chance to share your member experience. Stay connected to Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech and McConnell Golf on social media and join the conversation today.
@petedyerivercourse
THE RIVER REPORT
@mcconnellgolf
@rivercourseofvt
Tailgate To-Go.........................................................8 Private Events..........................................................9 Membership...........................................................10 Event Calendars...................................................11
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THE CORNER OFFICE Dear Members, Fall has arrived, and the beauty of the River Course is in full effect! We are truly blessed to witness the changing seasons and the beauty of nature right in our own backyard. There is something special about this time of year, and we hope you are taking a moment to enjoy it. As we begin closing out 2026, we know colder weather is just around the corner. But don't forget to take full advantage of those beautiful, warmer midday temperatures. There's still time to get out there, enjoy the fresh air, and keep swinging those clubs! We also want to take a moment to reflect on the year and, more importantly, to say THANK YOU. The support we've received from our members, guests, and sponsors this year has been nothing short of incredible. We have truly felt your love, loyalty, and dedication to being part of the River Course family. And honestly, saying thank you just doesn't seem like enough. From the bottom of our hearts, we are blessed and grateful for each and every one of you. You are what make this place so special, and we couldn't do it without you. Thank you for another wonderful year, for the memories made, and for being such an important part of our River Course community. As we close out another year, we can't help but feel ecstatic about what 2027 has in store! Each year has brought an abundance of joy, memories, and special moments that, as a team, we could never have predicted. And if this year has taught us anything, it's that the best part of the River Course is the amazing community that surrounds it. As we turn the page to a new year, we're excited to keep that momentum going! We look forward to another year filled with laughter, friendships, unforgettable experiences, and plenty of memories along the way. But before we say goodbye to 2026, let's celebrate in style! Join us for our final closeout party of the year, Cocktails & Candy Canes! on December 4. We're bringing the holiday spirit to the River Course with a festive experience everyone is sure to enjoy. It's the perfect opportunity to gather with friends, enjoy some holiday cheer, and celebrate all the wonderful moments this year has brought us. Let's make this one to remember and finish 2026 on a high note! We can't wait to celebrate with you! Your River Course Family
❤️
KARI KENDALL | GENERAL MANAGER kkendall@petedyerivercourse.com
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ON THE LINKS As we head into the final two months of the golf season, I want to thank everyone for another wonderful year at the club. It has been a pleasure seeing so many of you enjoying the course, participating in events, and making the most of the golf season. While the days are getting shorter and temperatures are beginning to drop, we still have opportunities to get out and enjoy the game. Be sure to take advantage of the remaining nice days and join us for our final tournament of the year!
TURKEY SHOOTOUT FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27 | NO SET TEE TIMES Join us for our final tournament of the season! The Turkey Shootout is a fun two-person team event that gives everyone a chance to get out, enjoy some friendly competition, and celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. Entry Fee: Members - Cart fee + $5 tournament entry fee, Guests - $45 (includes cart & green fee) + $5 tournament entry fee Format: First 9 Holes - Best Ball | Second 9 Holes - Chapman Best Ball: Players play their own ball throughout the hole. The better of the two players' scores counts toward the team's score on each hole. Chapman: Both players tee off. Each player then plays their partner's tee shot. The team selects the ball in the best position. The player who did not hit that second shot plays the next shot. Players alternate shots from that point until the ball is holed. The team with the lowest combined 18-hole score will be crowned the Turkey Shootout champions!
WINTER SIMULATOR LEAGUE PRACTICE ROUNDS BEGIN IN MID-DECEMBER OFFICIAL LEAGUE PLAY BEGINS IN JANUARY Just because the outdoor golf season is winding down doesn't mean the competition has to stop! We're excited to bring back some friendly competition this winter with our Winter Simulator League. League Entry: $40 for league dues, $5 each week you participate Format: Individual net stroke play & Team play Weekly Competition: Each week, participants will play a different 9-hole course. Scheduling: Players can register for different time slots throughout the week. Handicap Requirement: A valid USGA handicap is required to participate. Individual & Team Competitions: Weekly individual winners will receive prizes. Season-long individual winners will be recognized and rewarded. Participants can create their own three-person teams. Each week, the best two scores out of the three team members will count toward the team competition. Season-long team results will determine our team champions! More information regarding registration and weekly scheduling will be available soon. Start thinking about your team and get ready for some winter golf!
A Few End-of-Season Reminders As we move into November and December, please remember that cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours can impact course conditions and availability. Frost delays may become more frequent as temperatures drop. Please be patient and allow our maintenance team to protect the playing surfaces. Keep an eye on the weather and golf shop updates for any changes in course availability. Look for Black Friday and Christmas deals coming up in the golf shop. This is a great time to pick up holiday gifts or add to your wardrobe for next season.
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INSTRUCTIONAL TIPS A Golf Tip for the Winter Months Make the Most of Your Practice This Winter Just because the temperatures are dropping doesn't mean your game has to go into hibernation! If you're able to get out and play during the cooler months, remember to take a little extra time warming up before your round. Your body may need a few additional swings to loosen up, so don't rush into full-speed swings right away. Try a softer golf ball during those cold rounds for better feel and performance. This is also a great time to work on your putting. Spend some time on a putting mat, focusing on putts from 3 to 6 feet, and make sure you're starting the ball on your intended line. A little work over the winter can go a long way toward getting your game ready for next season!
Looking Ahead As we close out another golf season, I want to sincerely thank each of you for your continued support of the golf shop, our tournaments, and the game of golf. Your enthusiasm and participation are what make this club such a special place. Whether you're playing throughout the winter or taking some time away from the course, I hope you and your families have a wonderful Thanksgiving, a Merry Christmas, and a happy, healthy New Year. Thank you again for a great season. I look forward to seeing everyone back on the course and competing in the simulator this winter! DJ SHIVELY | RESIDENT GOLF PROFESSIONAL dj.shively@petedyerivercourse.com
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TURF TALK Late-Season Golf: November and December on the Course November and December bring a different rhythm to the golf course. Cooler mornings, shorter days, and the occasional warm afternoon create opportunities to enjoy a round at a quieter pace. From a superintendent’s perspective, these months are also an important time to protect the course and prepare it for the season ahead. One of the biggest considerations is frost. When frost covers the turf, foot traffic and golf carts can damage the grass, leaving discolored tracks that may linger because growth and recovery have slowed. Frost delays help us protect playing surfaces. We appreciate your patience as we monitor conditions and determine when play can safely begin. You may also notice changes in course setup and maintenance. Mowing becomes less frequent as growth slows, and our attention shifts toward leaf removal, drainage improvements, equipment maintenance, and other projects. Keeping leaves off greens and other playing surfaces helps maintain turf health and makes finding your golf ball a little easier! Cart traffic becomes especially important during late fall and early winter. Wet soils and slow-growing grass are more vulnerable to wear, particularly around greens, tees, and frequently traveled areas. Following cart signs, avoiding soft spots, and observing cart-path restrictions all help preserve conditions for everyone. For golfers, this season calls for a few adjustments. Dress in layers, expect changing conditions, and remember that colder temperatures can affect distance and ball roll. With fewer daylight hours, choosing an earlier tee time can also help you finish comfortably. Some of the year’s most enjoyable rounds happen on a crisp afternoon with good company and an uncrowded course. Our maintenance team will continue making the most of suitable weather while caring for the turf through the colder months. Thank you for helping us protect the course—and enjoy every opportunity to get outside and play. Regards, GREG CALDWELL | SUPERINTENDENT greg.caldwell@petedyerivercourse.com
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EVENTS
SUNDAY BRUNCH
COCKTAILS AND CANDY CANES
EVERY SUNDAY | 11AM - 2PM
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4 | 5PM - 8PM $25 INCLUSIVE PER PERSON
Join us every Sunday from 11:00am to 2:00am for Sunday Brunch at Pete Dye River Course. Enjoy a delicious selection of breakfast and lunch favorites while taking in the scenic views of the New River and spending quality time with family and friends. Call for reservations 540.633.2667 | kkendall@peteyerivercourse.com
Celebrate the holiday season at Cocktails and Candy Canes on Friday, December 4, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Pete Dye River Course. Enjoy a festive evening featuring a complimentary holiday-inspired cocktail, heavy hors d'oeuvres, and great company in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The cost is $25 inclusive per person. Call for reservations 540.633.2667 | kkendall@peteyerivercourse.com
SANTA BRUNCH SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 | 11AM - 2PM $17 PER PERSON | $10 FOR CHILDREN AGES 12 AND UNDER Celebrate the magic of the season at our Santa Brunch on Saturday, December 12, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Pete Dye River Course. Enjoy a festive brunch buffet, a photo opportunity with Santa, and family-friendly activities including reindeer food making, letter writing to Santa, sugar cookie decorating, coloring, and more. The cost is $17 per person, with children ages 12 and under just $10.
Call for reservations 540.633.2667 | kkendall@peteyerivercourse.com
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TAILGATE TIME!
GAMEDAY MADE EASY! WINGS By the dozen ~ 14
BREAKFAST CASSEROLE Full ~ 30 Half ~ 15
SMOKED BRISKET 1 lb ~ 19 Feeds 4ppl
½ lb ~ 9 Feeds 2ppl
PULLED PORK Full ~ 65 Half ~ 32 CHICKEN TENDERS Half only ~ 40 24 count
Orders must be in 48 hours prior to game day.
Rack of RIBS Full ~ 36 Half ~ 19 SAUCE CHOICES BBQ, Spicy BBQ, Sweet Thai, Tangy NC Gold, Buffalo Dry Rub, Lemon Pepper, Jerk
SIDES Potato Salad ~ 7 Macaroni Salad ~ 7 Slider Rolls ~ 10 Buns by The Dozen ~ 14 Country Green Beans Full ~ 15 or Half ~ 8 Mac N’ Cheese Full ~ 20 or Half ~ 10
PETE DYE RIVER COURSE OF VIRGINIA TECH TO ORDER: CALL 540.633.2667 OR EMAIL KKENDALL@PETEDYERIVERCOURSE.COM THE RIVER REPORT
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PRIVATE EVENTS
BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT WITH US From birthday parties to anniversaries, baby showers, and graduation parties, the clubhouse at Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech offers an unforgettable setting for your next event. Overlooking the historic New River, our elevated terrace and banquet rooms provide breathtaking views of the course and surrounding landscape. Whether you're planning an intimate celebration or a large-scale event, our flexible indoor space can accommodate groups from 10 to 115 guests. Partitioned layouts are available to better serve smaller gatherings, while the full room can be configured to meet the needs of corporate functions, receptions, and more. Amenities & Features: Panoramic river and golf course views Wi-Fi and modern AV technology Microphone, projector, 52" LCD monitors, podium, and sound system On-site event coordination and setup support To book your event today, email kkendall@petedyerivercourse.com or submit an event inquiry using the button below.
EVENT INQUIRY FORM
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MEMBERSHIP
MEMBERSHIP AT PETE DYE RIVER COURSE OF VIRGINIA TECH Join one of Virginia's top-ranked golf destinations and enjoy all that Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech has to offer. Our membership options are designed to fit a variety of lifestyles, whether you're a passionate golfer, a Virginia Tech student, or simply want to enjoy the clubhouse and social atmosphere. There’s a true sense of community among our members, and our team is proud to recognize the important role they play in the continued success of the River Course. Membership here means being valued—not burdened. That’s why our members are never subject to operational or capital assessments, and there are no minimum spending requirements. Membership Benefits: Unlimited play with no time restrictions 14 days advance tee time preference 10% off non-sale golf apparel Member-priced handicap fees Opportunity to purchase a range plan Privilege of walking anytime Member-only golf events To view annual membership opportunities and to apply for membership, click the button below or scan the QR code.
MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
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November MONDAY
SUNDAY 1
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
2
3
4
5
6
7
9
10
11
12
13
14
17
18
19
20
21
24
25
26
27
28
New restaurant hours start 8
Sunday Brunch 16
15
Sunday Brunch
23
22
Turkey Shoot Out
Sunday Brunch
30
29
Sunday Brunch
December SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY 1
7
6
WEDNESDAY 2
THURSDAY 3
FRIDAY
SATURDAY 5
4
Cocktails & Candy Canes 8
9
10
11
12
Sunday Brunch Santa Brunch 13
14
15
16
17
18
19
21
22
23
24
25
26
28
29
30
31
Sunday Brunch
20
Sunday Brunch Closed 27
Sunday Brunch
THE RIVER REPORT
Happy New Year!
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