In an unprecedented move, the City of Calgary will reopen Maple Ridge Golf Course and Shaganabee Point Golf Course in mid-November. The City’s attempt to extend the golf season has been prompted by unseasonably warm weather, with temperatures expected to reach 10 degrees Celsius over the weekend.
The courses will be open from Thursday, November 16th through Sunday, November 19th. Maple Ridge will offer 18 holes in a crossover format for $25, while Shaganabee will offer two different nine-hole options for $15.
The city has encountered some challenges in reopening the courses, such as staffing shortages due to seasonal worker layoffs. However, Faber said the team is excited about the opportunity and willing to try new things.
The city also took steps to protect the course from damage during the winter. Regular greens have been discontinued for the winter, so golfers will have to accept temporary greens. The grass on the tees and fairways is already dormant, so there is no need to worry about turf damage.
The city is hopeful that the trial will be a success and could lead to other opportunities if Calgary’s winter weather opens a window of opportunity throughout December.
Golfer Kyle McNichol is excited about the opportunity to play golf in mid-November, saying he’s “very happy” to have booked a tee time.
Faber is also optimistic about the potential for winter golf in Calgary. He said the city will be keeping a close eye on the weather forecast and “stay tuned” for more updates.
