Derek Agnew, new general manager at Bigwood at Thunder Spring, said the Ketchum golf course is likely to open for the season Saturday, May 3.
It represents an extremely late opening for Bigwood, in fact, the latest opening in the memory of 24-year Bigwood superintendent Norm Shorts. "We've never opened later than April 28," said Agnew. "Last year it was April 4. Two years ago with huge snow, April 24."
There was still too much snow remaining on Bigwood's two par-5s Monday, so Agnew and the rest of the Bigwood staff were keeping their fingers crossed for warm temperatures and more snow melt this week.
Bigwood's Opening Special rates are $25 for 9 holes and $40 for 18. Early and late season rates are $34 for 9 holes and $58 for 18. Peak Season greens fees are $42 for 9 holes, $74 for 18.
Golf carts are $13 for 9 holes and $19 for 18. Agnew said these are brand new, top-of-the-line "Club Car" carts. The first few days of season play will be walking only and then we'll fire up the carts, Agnew added.
Be sure to take advantage of season pass discounts that are now available. You can save $75 through May 15 because the season pass is $775. After May 15 the cost rises to its normal $850. Junior Passes are $250.
The driving range opened Monday, April 28 with Bigwood's new ball machine that features on-site credit card processing (no more tokens).
Golfers and diners will see many changes this spring and summer. Agnew said, "We've had a big changeover in staff."
Former Valley Club golf professional Scott Syms, a homegrown golfer who played for Boise State University, is Bigwood's new head golf pro. Agnew said Bigwood is fortunate to have him. Karen Campbell-Shorts is teaching pro. She is one of two female golf pros in the state of Idaho, Agnew said.
Bob Dunn is the new Bigwood manager. He is overseeing the golf course and grill. The grill should be open in late May and will offer dinner several nights a week. Dunn's key people that worked with him at Warm Springs Ranch are also on board at the Bigwood Grill.
