By Greg Johnson
British Open week is special in golf throughout the world—a continuing legacy that has inspired players and viewers alike—and at Lakewood Shores Golf Resort, experiencing the remarkable tradition is possible.
“It’s always an exciting week, but for us it’s also a week in which people are watching that links style of golf found in that part of the world and they want to experience it,” said Craig Peters, PGA Professional at Lakewood Shores Golf Resort.
“We make that possible; all they have to do is come over,” added Peters.
The Gailes course at Lakewood Shores offers the links golfing experience through the award-winning design work of Ken Aldridge and Bob Cupp, a little wind, and the beauty of the surrounding Michigan topography.
The Gailes, named the No. 1 New Resort Course by Golf Digest when it opened during golf’s building boom of 1993, recreates the look and feel of the famed seaside courses of Scotland with double greens, meandering berms, sod-faced bunkers and long fescue grasses.
“A lot of people obviously can’t get over there [England or Scotland] for whatever reason, and they may really enjoy watching the British Open,” said Peters. “I look forward to it every year. It intrigues me, and I can understand then wanting to try it, see it, and play it. We tell them save your money, and come see us.”
“Save your money and come see us” could well be a theme for Lakewood Shores. The Mission Statement for Lakewood Shores talks of providing some of the best golf in Michigan at a great dollar value, and Peters said they do not yield on that mission.
It’s obvious in their summer packages, and stay-and-play options. Peters points at the weekday packages as some of the best values.
“We have a July and August package, which is on select days, but it is for $189 for two nights and three rounds. It’s perfect for those who want to play some of Michigan’s best golf, but at a great price,” said Peters.
“It’s also great for those who don’t have to work; those who are enjoying their later years. It’s less crowded and a great experience and great value,” added Peters.
Lakewood Shores Golf Resort also offers two additional courses providing complementary designs for golfers to experience. Blackshire, also designed by Kevin Aldridge, was inspired by the famous Pine Valley Country Club in New Jersey. It offers a rugged feel with hardwoods, large sand waste areas and undulating greens. The Serradella, designed by Bruce Matthews, is a classic parkland design with minimal hazards, wide fairways and large greens, and the incorporated floral gardens make it a resort experience.
“We truly have three completely different golf courses here, they are part of our packages and we make them work for our guests,” said Peters.
The 2017 Open Championship starts Thursday, July 20 and goes through Sunday July 23. It is being played at Royal Birkdale in Southport, England.
Photos courtesy Lakewood Shores Golf Resort.
