Golf Newsletter

As I write this letter it is a little early for the deadline but I will be up in Syracuse for my daughter's wedding when it will actually be due. I just can't believe that I am now a father-in-law.  I really don't know where the time has gone but I do realize that it's not just happening to me:  it's passing us all by very quickly.  I guess my only advice to us all is to enjoy the ride and if you are fortunate it will be a long one.

I hope all are surviving a record warm and humid summer.  The weather certainly has had some impact on our afternoon play this summer and for good reason, it is just plain nasty in the afternoon.  It actually is not even cooling off for the latter afternoon golf.  I did mention before about staying hydrated and I again will ask that you all be careful out there on the course and don't become another statistic.

Well, for those of you that have not heard by now or noticed, my assistant/teaching pro Pete Dunham is no longer with us at Snee Farm.  Pete has taken a Head Professional job up in New Bern, NC at a new facility called Carolina Colors.  It is always tough losing a colleague of Pete's qualifications and professionalism but it is a great opportunity and is one that all assistants eventually want and strive for.  He has been a great asset not only to me but has also developed a wonderful following with his teaching skills and presentation.  No on likes it when good friends move away especially when you have bonded like we have with Pete.  He is going to be missed by myself, Brian, Hunter and all of us here in the golf operation side of Snee Farm not to mention all of you that have come in contact with him.  Good luck Pete.

Quick Tip:

To hit out of this tough rough:  Choose a more lofted club than you would normally use for that distance, play the ball back in your stance and pick the club up a little more abruptly on your back swing.  This will create a steeper angle of attack, more topspin and less twisting of the club face than a normal shallow swing.  This will work as well around the greens for those little chip and runs.  Give it a try and feel free to ask me any questions concerning any and all related issues.

Your PGA professional,

Jeff Thompson

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Maintenance Newsletter   

Aerification is over, and for the most part, I am happy with the recovery.  We will continue to do some light verti-cutting and topdressing on the greens throughout the remaining growing season.  The crew and I will also be continuing to work on the collars on certain greens to improve the surface drainage.

I would like to say a special thanks to everyone on my staff for a great summer.  It has been a long and hot summer and I would like to say thanks for a job well done.  Please remember these guys are here 7 days a week keeping the course up.

Please remember to fix all ballmarks and fill and smooth all divots.  This becomes very important as the weather cools and grass recovery time slows down.

Brent Bagwell

Golf Course Superintendent

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Swim Team Newsletter

Congratulations to our Snee Farm Swim Team and Head Coach Jason Kreutner on the team's 22nd CCAA City Meet Championship win.  During the 3-day event held July 18-20 at the Jewish Community Center Snee Farm never lost the lead!

The team, founded in 1971, serves over 100 member families and after 39 years has become a summer tradition spanning generations.  The swim season runs from mid-April to late July.  Our fantastic group of coaches are all former Snee Farm Swim Team swimmers.

Next year, 2011, will be the team's 40th Anniversary season.  If you are an alum, please join our Snee Farm Swim Team facebook page to keep informed of upcoming anniversary activities.