Spring makes us want to get healthy. And what’s healthier than fresh air, exercise and getting enough greens? Thankfully, you can check all three off your list thanks to the Olympia Country and Golf Club. They’re always working to improve amenities inside and out and that hard work pays off for members and guests alike. Swing by and bring your clubs because their staff, instructors, golf course and pro shop are ready for you seven days a week.
Longtime Head Pro Mark Jensen was recently promoted to Director of Golf and Mitch Berschauer brought aboard as Head Golf Professional. They also added a PGA Assistant Bryan Jan. “Our golf shop staff is complete and ready for the season, which promises to be the most active to date so far,” says Jensen.
If you want to join, now is the time. Olympia Country and Golf Club is offering no initiation fee for all new or returning members with a one -year commitment. This promotion has been extended to July 1 due to the poor weather this spring, so don’t waste time. Join now!
An immensely popular sport since the first 18-hole round in St. Andrews, Scotland in 1764, the Club’s course hosts about 20,000 rounds of golf each year, with the bulk of those rounds played May through September, Jensen explains. “With the increase of golf popularity, we expect those numbers to increase in 2022,” he adds.
Every course has its little tricks, unique aspects and fan-favorite designs. “Starting here in 2005 the one thing that continues to be mentioned is the quality of our greens,” says Jensen. “In the summer they are very fast and smooth, and golfers love the challenge that our greens provide. You could say that just about every putt has slope to it. Also, our setting is fantastic with its view of Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound.”
Jason “Howie” Howerton is the Golf Course Superintendent. He agrees that this year they’re focused on maintaining the golf course to a higher standard. “We’re setting up a course that will not only be challenging, but enjoyable to play,” he says.
They’ll do this in a variety of ways. “We have adjusted the heights on cutting units to help highlight our mow patterns and help the average golfers when landing either in the fairway or rough,” he explains. “Our recent topdressing program in our fairways will allow more carts off the cart paths and extended distance drives off the tees. With fresh cut grass and beautiful views, there are not many other places I would want to be than playing golf here.”
For those who haven’t picked up a club in recent memory—or ever—that’s ok. “We give golf lessons all 12 months of the year,” says Jensen. “Our tournament schedule, both club events and outside tournaments, runs from early May through October with a Turkey Shoot in November and Santa Scramble in December. For information on our tournaments call the Golf Shop at 360.915.8737.”
You can read more about the Club’s two PGA Class A Professionals online as well as emailing them with questions about individual or group lessons which are taught by appointment. There is also an extensive junior golf program and active groups for both men and women. The club has club and personal cart storage on site as well as locker space and a new fleet of EZGO carts that are available for rental by the ride, month or season.
The course is open all year round though hours vary slightly by season. During peak season, the Pro Shop closes at 7 p.m. with cart rentals due by 8 p.m. But save some time to enjoy the other Club amenities like a refreshing swim in the pool, warm up or cool down session in the on-site Fitness Center or a seasonal specialty from Terrace on the Green restaurant. Don’t want to pause your game for lunch? Call 360.350.0929 to place your order and have burgers, sandwiches and tasty treats waiting.
Want to try your hand at other sports too? The Club’s beautiful pickleball court overlooking the water hosts a festive community of players as well as upcoming tournaments in June, July, August, and September. Regular play happens Monday, Wednesday and Friday for women, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday for men with evening co-ed games during the week.
You can find dining, event and holiday get-togethers posted on the Club’s annual calendar or scan the monthly calendar for specifics. From Sunday Brunch to Twilight Golf, there’s something for everyone, all year long. Not a member yet but always wanted to join? Visit the membership page for a downloadable application and information about the different classification levels and benefits. Then head over for a season of waterfront views, healthy activity and all the greens you can handle.
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