Settlers Bay opens 18 holes

JEREMIAH BARTZ/ Frontiersman Sports Editor

WASILLA - Earlier this month, Palmer was the first golf course to open for the season in the state of Alaska, and last week Settlers Bay became the first of the season to open a complete 18-hole course.

Settlers Bay Golf Club, located just off mile 8 of Knik-Goose Bay Road, opened for business on April 15, and more than 140 golfers teed off. The course opened with only three temporary greens in use, and by this weekend, the entire course should have natural greens at each hole, Settlers Bay's Sam Bomar said.

The course was restricted to walk only for the first week, but Bomar said the course will be open to the use of carts on paths starting today. The driving range is also open.

Bomar said course conditions remain good despite late season snows and the wet weather this week. Even though the Valley was rocked with a heavy snowfall in late March, Bomar said, the warm temperatures that followed helped improve course conditions.

Each year Settlers Bay officials have aimed to be the first to open a complete 18-hole course. Bomar said Settlers Bay is able to attract golfers from outside the Valley with the availability of 18 holes to play.

The course includes four par fives, including a 630-yard seventh hole.

Settlers Bay is currently using its twilight fees, 18-holes for $22, as its normal rate. Bomar said the rate will stay in effect until the weather improves.

Settlers Bay also asks golfers to call 376-5466 for tee times.