A 12-hole golf course sounds strange at first, but they have been slowly growing in popularity over the past few years. At times, 9-holes is not enough, but 18 can feel like too much. The perfect middle-ground? 12-holes.
Here in Alberta, there are two official 12-hole golf courses: Pineridge Golf Resort located near Seba Beach and Sandy Point Golf Resort located on Gull Lake. Pineridge originally opened in 1972 as a 9-hole golf course, then added a 10th hole in 2012, and finally expanded to 12-holes in 2018. Sandy Point recently opened in June keeping the recreational golfer in mind with their links-style course.
Growing the Game
Golf can be an intimidating sport to get into, and two of the biggest barriers that exist are cost and time. For beginners, the jump from 9 holes to 18 may feel big, but 12-holes acts as a stepping stone. For kids whose attention spans may not be as long, 12-holes is a great alternative when introducing them to the game. And for seniors, 18 holes may be too much, and 9 may not be enough, so 12-holes becomes a happy medium.
Paul Croteau, the Director of Golf at Pineridge Golf Resort, stressed that 12-holes makes the game more accessible. “12-holes is incredibly popular with seniors and beginner golfers, but also extremely popular for people because of the time restraint 18-holes has,” said Croteau.
For beginner golfers, kids, and seniors, spending five or six hours at the golf course on a Saturday may not sound appealing. At Pineridge Golf Resort a weekend round takes less than three and a half hours which is more appealing for anyone with a busy schedule. Additionally, the cost of golf can add up quickly with clubs, proper attire, green fees, and cart rentals. Pineridge keeps cost in mind with special green fee offers for juniors and seniors allowing for more affordable options.
What About Tournaments?
Traditionally, golf tournaments play a full 18-holes, but for corporate team building or family events 18-holes can be a big commitment. Croteau said Pineridge has been “getting way more tournaments” this summer because many fun tournaments do not want to be on the course all day. Pineridge hosts their Club Championship every summer which can help introduce people to a more serious tournament environment without an 18-hole commitment.
What About my Handicap Index?
For those wanting to make sure every round counts, Pineridge has been rated by course raters so that you can track your 9-hole score and have it contribute to your Handicap Index.
Is 12-Holes Really Enough?
A common misconception about 12-hole golf courses is that 12-holes is not enough, and that you must play 9 or 18. In reality, Croteau says that many customers who are hesitant towards 12-holes come off the course feeling satisfied. And for those who want more, Pineridge offers an amazing deal for a second round—a green fee for a second round in a single day is only $12.
What About Experienced Golfers?
While the 12-hole layout is perfect for beginners, Pineridge still offers a challenge for experienced golfers. The course has a mix of par 3s, 4s, and 5s adding up to a total par of 48. Trees on nearly every hole, bunkers, and water features all work to create a course that continues to challenge golfers of any level.Â
Membership and League Opportunities
Pineridge offers a variety of membership options to fit various needs. In addition to memberships, Pineridge offers two leagues for players to participate in. Wednesday morning Ladies League and Thursday evening Men’s League. Participants can sign up to play in the league all summer or they can drop in as their schedule allows.
Additionally, Pineridge offers Junior Golf Camps in July and August put on by Teaching Professional Katrina Kelly, or Coach K. These camps are a great introduction to golf where participants can learn the fundamentals and build their confidence. Coach K creates an environment supportive of players at all levels to ensure all participants gain something from camp.
Overall, Pineridge Golf Resort is the perfect place for any golfer, as it fits into busy schedules while preserving traditions of golf. Plus, you can stop by the restaurant, 9 Iron Grill & Patio, to fulfill any food or beverage needs before or after your round. If you have been hesitant to try 12-holes, take this as your sign to try it out.