Chippewa County Girls Golfers Craft Dream Course with Favorite Holes

A group of nine girls golfers from Chippewa County has collaboratively designed a fictional golf course featuring their favorite holes, showcasing their personal experiences and preferences. Each selected hole reflects unique challenges and memorable moments, providing a glimpse into their golfing journeys.

The course includes a variety of holes from local courses, offering a mix of difficulty and playability. Senior Illa Nelson from Blackhawk chose the first hole at Turtleback Golf Course in Rice Lake, a 340-yard Par-4 that doglegs to the right. Nelson appreciates this hole for its compatibility with her swing, believing it sets a positive tone for the round. During the Division 2 regionals last year, she faced a challenging start with a double bogey but rebounded to shoot a 95, finishing in a tie for third while leading her team to sectionals.

Another opening hole was highlighted by senior Kinnley Durch, who selected the leadoff hole at the Osseo Golf Club. This 299-yard Par-4 provides ample space for golfers to settle in, although it also presents obstacles in the form of trees to the right of the green and a bunker in front. Durch noted that the hole’s layout allows players to feel comfortable, making it a favorite among her teammates.

Following Nelson’s choice, senior Ella Petz picked the second hole at Turtleback. As a 519-yard Par-5, this hole doglegs to the right and is considered the most challenging on the course. Petz believes it is manageable for longer hitters, offering the chance to reach the green in two strokes, despite the bunkers and parking lot that flank the hole.

Senior Olivia Bergerson from Chippewa Falls opted for the sixth hole at Lake Wissota Golf Course, a 309-yard Par-4. This hole features Lake Wissota on the left, with a sharp right turn about 100 yards from the green. Bergerson appreciates the opportunity to play through short grass, although players must navigate trees to reach the green.

Sophomore Caitlen Ketterhagen, who is new to golf, chose the sixth hole at Pheasant Hills in Hammond. This 136-yard Par-3 requires a tee shot over water, which initially intimidated her during the season’s start on August 19. However, during her first varsity tournament, she parred the hole, proving its challenges were surmountable.

Senior Allie Goodman selected the eighth hole at Whispering Pines in Cadott, a 195-yard Par-4. Although it is the shortest on the course, it presents significant challenges due to a creek in front of the green and trees to the right. Goodman recalls birdying this hole in one of her early rounds, setting high expectations for future play.

Freshman Jordyn Bellrichard chose the 16th hole at Bloomer Veterans Memorial, a 261-yard Par-4 with a 90-degree turn. This hole allows for conservative play but also tempts more daring golfers to attempt a risky shot around the bend. Bellrichard noted that a favorable bounce could assist ambitious players, although caution is necessary due to nearby homes.

The course concludes with the last two holes from Lake Wissota. Senior Isabelle Collicott selected No. 17, the shortest hole at just 81 yards. While it provides a relatively straightforward approach, players must navigate rocks and bunkers that add complexity to the shot.

Finally, Taylor Schmidt, also a senior from Chippewa Falls, chose the 18th hole, a 229-yard Par-4 that crosses a river on the way to the green. Schmidt acknowledged that many golfers find this hole challenging but emphasized its beauty, particularly at sunset. “Even if you put up a double on the hole, it’s still nice,” she remarked, highlighting the appeal of the course’s scenic views.

The collaborative effort by these talented athletes not only highlights their individual preferences but also reflects the camaraderie and shared passion for the sport within Chippewa County’s golfing community. Their dream course serves as a testament to their experiences and the stories behind each hole.