Area's newest course nears its grand debut

The long-awaited opening of Cape Girardeau's newest golf course, the Dalhousie Golf Club, is in sight.

Dalhousie officials confirmed that the first 18 holes will open May 20 for members and June 15 for the public. Another nine holes is scheduled to be added this fall to the course designed by Gary Nicklaus, son of golf legend Jack Nicklaus.

The course serves as the centerpiece of a residential development, Prestwick Plantation, a projected community of 600 home sites on a 900-acre tract.

Dalhousie, in its nearly complete state, reflects the high quality and attention to detail that has gone into its construction from the beginning.

"From the start, the ownership has strived to bring an outstanding product to the area," Jack Connell, the director of golf at Dalhousie, said.

"I believe this development will be known throughout the Midwest and even around the country as word gets out."

A pristine blend

Pristinely maintained and manicured, Dalhousie combines the Scottish-links style with prototypical American golf-course architecture, and does it in a manner that blends beautifully into the natural landscape, aesthetically and environmentally.

While the rolling terrain, an array of 72 grass and sand bunkers and the fescue and broomsedge rough are of Scottish import, the tree-lined zoysia fairways and wooded areas on certain holes typify American venues.

Dalhousie's length and degree of difficulty can be altered to suit women and juniors, as well as, low handicappers and touring professionals, which Dalhousie hopes to someday attract with a tour event. An affiliation with LPGA tour player Karen Stupples has already been established.

"All caliber of players and handicaps can enjoy the course," Connell said.

Alternative tee spots

The championship tees stretch to 7,300 yards on the par-72 layout, but alternate tee locations reduce the length to 6,900, 6,500, 6,200 and 5,500 yards.

A spectacular view from the 15th green overlooks a lush valley with three lakes entwined into the course layout.

A feature certain to draw its share of incredulous stares is the awesome 17,000 square-foot 18th green. Ninety yards deep, this green should tax both the skill and imagination of golfers attempting to hole out.

A temporary clubhouse, with limited food and beverage availability, will be used until the projected completion of a permanent one in the fall. A practice facility, including a driving range, practice putting and chipping greens, is scheduled to be completed next fall as well.

Carts are available, but walkers are welcome. Anticipating a tour event, the course was set up for walking.

Dalhousie plans to implement a caddy program with services available upon advance request.

llewis@semissourian.com

(573) 335-6611, extension 171