UTAH’S GOLF: Uninhibited Ingenuity
By Bobby Brown
I was introduced to the game of golf forty-plus years ago; and over that time, I have visited many golf courses in various states. Unfortunately, many times, I believe that I was denied access to play at some of the golf courses simply because of my race as an African American.
Upon arriving at Salt Lake City’s International Airport in Utah, in mid-August, I didn’t know what to expect as members of the Utah Sports Commission graciously welcomed me and whisked me away to the lovely Grand Americana Hotel (20 minutes from the airport), where I checked into one of it exquisite AAA Diamond Award winning rooms. As an avid skier, I also appreciated that its just 30-45 minutes from world-class skiing.
Bobby Brown (2nd from right) with golf buddies.
During my week-long stay in Utah I had an opportunity to visit various historical sites, be educated in the local culture and, I discovered that Utah derived it name from the Ute Native American “Ute” tribe and means “people of the mountains”. I also got to golf on some of the most prestigious courses in the state. Here is an overview of my recommends – place them on your travel list!
Park City is located in Utah’s Summit County, approximately 35 minutes east of Salt Lake City International Airport with scenic rides to historical sites, culture centers and various summer tourist spots.
Seven public golf courses and six private courses are located within a 20 mile radius of the town. When players tee up at this altitude, they will notice the ball soaring further than ever before. Rates are very reasonable (18 holes with cart $43.00).
Mountain Dell Golf course (36 hole facility): The Lake Course at Mountain Dell has narrow rolling fairways, dramatic tee shots over deep ravines and water which place a premium on precision and accuracy while providing breathtaking views at 6000 feet above sea level. Careful, don’t strike your 9 iron too deep, or you’re likely strike coal, Utah’s state rock.
The air here is thin which gives short hitters an opportunity to see their ball travel long distances. Their Canyon Course is just as exciting. You may occasionally observe a deer, elk, moose, eagle, hawk, badger, squirrel, or even a cougar. (…where’s that golf club that doubles as a rifle?)
Wasatch County, located within the county is Wasatch Mountain State Park, nestled above the picturesque town of Midway and resting in the shadow of the Wasatch Mountains, it holds the Wasatch County golf course.
Bobby Brown (center) prepares to head off on ATV.
Another golf course is Soldier Hollow which received its name from Captain James H. Simpson who ordered a company of soldiers to conduct a survey in determining the shortest route between Camp Floyd, Utah and Fort Bridger, Wyoming.
Soldier Hollow is known for hosting athletes worldwide and weekend recreationists to enjoy Olympic Winter Games courses year-round. Last but not least is the Silver Golf Course, a links style course. Here you can see the mountains and valleys.
Bobby Brown (far right) with several new friends.
After your golf rounds, take advantage of a lively ride on an ATV 4 wheeler with Midway Adventure Company and Lofty Peaks through mountains tops to enjoy more breathtaking views.
Heber City is the largest city in Wasatch County, and provides great golfing, cross country skiing, scuba diving, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and ice skating. Best of all, its perfectly situated between four Alpine Ski resorts.
I discovered that most of Utah’s courses are rated #1 by Golf Digest. And, “ditto,” from my experience –the golf, the lodging, excellent services I received during my stay; Utah is #1. The hospitality alone was beyond my wildest dreams and you must give it a try.
Bobby Brown, contributing writer/golf course reviewer for African American Golfer’s Digest is Inventor/President/CEO of Hook-Up & Swing, Hook-Up and Swing Foundation (Shreveport, LA). He is owner of Brown’s Custom Services, Board President/Member of The First Tee of Northwest Louisiana and Member of Hal Sutton Advisory Board. He can be reached at (318) 631-4980, BobbyYesLove@aol.com.
