Ask a golfer what makes a golf hole great and you are likely to generate any number of answers. But the one common denominator that every golfer can agree is needed — a good environment.
Carved out of the side of a cliff, the Links of GlenEagles’ 16th hole provides not only a challenge for golfers, but also a spectacular aesthetic for the novice driver to the pro putter.
“The 16th hole is a very unique hole that golfers simply just love to play,” said Slade King, executive pro of Play Golf Calgary Facilities, which includes the Links of GlenEagles, as well as Blue Devil Golf Club and HeatherGlen Golf Course.
“It is a hole that you look forward to and that you always remember. The architect, Les Furber, carved this hole out of the side of a cliff, however, it looks so natural — like it was meant to be there. The views from the sixteenth are jaw-dropping and you will catch yourself staring and forgetting about golf completely for a moment.”
King explained that while the hole may appear daunting at first, it’s actually possible for golfers of all abilities.
“The hole certainly looks challenging from the tee, however, it was designed with all golfers’ skill levels in mind,” explained King.
“Once you clear two-thirds of the hillside, most balls will bounce and funnel down to the front of the green. You will get away with more poor shots here than other holes, however, a well-hit shot will leave you on the green putting for birdie. If challenge is what you are looking for, then try our black tees on this hole — at 251 yards of all-carry, it is the greatest challenge for any golfer.”
King reflects on one of his fondest memories of the 16th — a news story-turned hole-in-one with Global Calgary News Hour anchor, Gord Gillies.
“Gord and myself were filming a golf tip about how to hit shots on an elevated hole. I talked quickly about how to select your club, how to adjust your swing, etcetera. Gord stepped up and hit his shot which flew at the flag, bounced once, rolled and went in the cup for a hole-in-one — all on camera.” laughed King.
The Links of GlenEagles is now opening for the 2013 golf season. Learn more at gleneaglesgolf.com.
