Golf
Golfer at sunset (Picture BC photo)
Merritt accommodates both advanced golfers and families with one of the most unique courses in Canada plus three other well-established nine-hole layouts.
Sagebrush Golf and Sporting Club
Located in hills above the Quilchena Hotel, 20km/12.5mi north of Merritt, the Sagebrush Golf and Sporting Club is a minimalist links-style course, combining spectacular views from every fairway. Tee boxes have no markers, which necessitates a style of play unfamiliar to the average duffer.
Former PGA touring professional, Dick Zokol is one of the designers and owners of Sagebrush. He is on the course almost every day and willing to talk about its design and style of play. Ranging from 4,964m/5,429yd to 6,831m/7,471yd, the course plays link an old Scottish links course with waste bunkers, open entries onto the greens, hard and fast fairways, and greens that are quick and large. This is bump and run golf. Aim for the flag and it likely means a long chip shot back to the green.
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Between the 13th and 14th holes is the fishing lake where golfers take a break and have lunch or dinner. Take some time, cast a line into the well-stocked man-made lake, and have a beverage before returning to the course. Playing is by invitation only. However, that's no problem: Call the clubhouse and ask to play (tee-times are at 30 minute intervals). After 2010, play will be limited to private members and guests only, so take advantage of this time to play a course found nowhere else in Canada.
Quilchena Golf Course and RV Park
The Quilchena Golf Course and RV Park, a family-style flat layout course, extends westward from the historic Quilchena Hotel and the RV park. The forward tees are 2,538m/2,776yd, and back the tees are 2,762m/3,021yd. While the course is flat, trees present a hazard to the wayward shot. Carts are available, but it's an easily walked course.
Merritt Golf and Country Club
Located just minutes from downtown, the Merritt Golf and Country Club is a 5,669m/6,200yd course. With two sets of tees distinguishing each nine-hole layout, players must navigate the Nicola River six times on each nine. The clubhouse features a restaurant, pro-shop, and club and cart rentals.
Meadow Creek Golf Club
Meadow Creek Golf Club, a 20-minute drive from Merritt, meanders through a wooded hillside design just east of downtown Logan Lake. When playing both nines, the course runs 5,654m/6,184yd, with elevation changes and several greens on multiple levels. Miss the right level with an approach shot – especially the par-5 – and scores mount quickly. Club and cart rentals are available.
Stop by the Merritt Visitor Centre for more information about the golfing opportunities in the area.
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