Hammond - 2014 Renewal

[Kiwi]

Received a notice today that the 2014 Membership is now available. I am not a member there, but I guess I'm on their mailing list. Just for "fun" I poked them to see if I could get a reply relating to the ownership situation (was supposed to change hands Sep 01) and what the plans were for 2014. Also encouraged then to reply here to let us all know. Got a generic reply suggesting that I contact them direct if I had any questions. Cannot see why so many clubs don't take advantage of the FREE publicity offered by this site...

[EagleEagle]

How much are the 2014 memberships if you book now?.Are the greens in good shape?.

[Kiwi]

Sorry, I'm not contemplating joining so I cannot comment on rates. As far as greens, from what I saw a few weeks ago they had been punched but NOT sanded. Greens were playable but not to the extent they were in recent years. On my last visit I played with two long-time members. Story told by them ref greens was that they had a greens keeper (Camelot?) come in a couple of years ago and work on their greens. Apparently he told them that they had the "wrong grass" for greens and it would take three years to get them around to the proper stuff. I found them very lush and literally a thick green carpet, which apparently is NOT what they were supposed to be like. I found them much thinner now, but probably faster as they are not as soft. If it were me I'd be sure to ask what the ownership situation is and what the new owner/management plans to do with course up keep. IMHO it has slipped in the last few years and with a proposed new owner who has no golf background I'd be concerned about his priorities. In good conditions it is a very playable course with a very active club membership.

[EagleEagle]

Thanks for the info.

[sebber]

From what I heard, the ownership team will be compromised of two individuals, one with extensive golf background...

[Kiwi]

I'm starting to see a little more activity on their Facebook page, some great shots of the course... hopefully this trend/attitude continues. It's a great course/location and would hate to see it go the way of Bearbrook or Poplar Grove (renamed).

[Kiwi]

How much are the 2014 memberships if you book now?.Are the greens in good shape?.

JUST posted 2014 rates on Facebook...

[ChukBoy]

I heard more... And it's definitely NOt 2 new owners and IF it is bought.. It's not someone with any golf experience

[ChukBoy]

I would not buy a membership at this point !!!

[Kiwi]

I would not buy a membership at this point !!!

I am sure they are not the first, nor will they be the last, business who have troubles. What should be of concern is when these troubles start to become apparent, as in cut backs in maintenance, and service. I believe they have a strong membership. Hope they resolve the ownership issues ASAP.

[big mac]

Played today and talked to present owner---deal not done yet

[Kiwi]

Spoke with someone who played there in the last few days. Apparently the Pro Shop has been cleaned out / stock removed. Perhaps this is a sign?