Course of the Week: Willow Creek Golf Course Rochester, MN

Willow Creek Golf Course, an extraordinary destination nestled in Rochester, Minnesota, underwent a significant turning point in its history. As above-average couple of golfers, we have had the pleasure of experiencing all that Willow Creek has to offer, and we cannot wait to share our excitement with you. From the moment we step onto the first tee, we are immediately captivated by the breathtaking scenery and the meticulous condition of the course. It is by far the best shape it has ever been in, and we are excited to see what's in store every time we play! The lush green fairways, framed by majestic willow trees and towering pines, create a truly enchanting ambiance. Willow Creek sets the stage for an unforgettable golfing adventure right from the very beginning. Understandably, Willow Creek Golf Course has historical significance. In 1973, it experienced a defining moment in its rich history with the establishment of the renowned Wendell Pittinger Golf Academy. Led by the highly esteemed golf professional and instructor, Wendell Pittinger, the academy has left an indelible mark on the course and its golfers. Pittinger's expertise and passion for the game transformed Willow Creek into a hotbed for aspiring golfers and a center for golf instruction in the Rochester area. Students flocked to the academy, eager to benefit from Pittinger's expertise and immerse themselves in the game. His dedication and passion for teaching resulted in remarkable progress and the realization of their golfing potential. However, Willow Creek Golf Course faced a challenging period in its history. In October of 2019, the course closed permanently due to financial difficulties and foreclosure. It was a heartbreaking moment for the golfing community, as Willow Creek had become a beloved destination over the years. The closure left a void in the hearts of many golfers who held cherished memories of playing on its fairways. But thanks to the dedication and vision of new owners Will Lancaster and Andy Black, the story of Willow Creek Golf Course took a dramatic turn. With a deep love for the sport and a desire to revive this cherished course, they embarked on a mission to breathe new life into Willow Creek. After extensive planning, attention to detail, and significant investments, the course reopened its doors in 2022, much to the delight of the Rochester golfing community. Since its reopening under new ownership, Willow Creek Golf Course has undergone significant improvements. Enhanced drainage systems and strategic tree removal have revitalized the course, creating new playing opportunities and challenges. These changes were implemented based on feedback from golfers, ensuring that the course offers a visually stunning environment while providing an enjoyable and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels. The passion, expertise, and fresh ideas of owners Will Lancaster and Andy Black have left an indelible mark on Willow Creek. For us, as avid and above-average golfers, Willow Creek Golf Course holds a special place in our hearts. It is worth traveling the hour and a half drive to experience the warm welcome, challenging fairways, and rolling greens. With each visit, we create new memories and feel a sense of joy and inspiration. As we progress through the course, we encounter a variety of holes that test our skills and leave us with unforgettable memories. One hole that stands out is the eighth, a challenging dogleg left that leads to the green of a par 5. Strategizing our way through this hole requires precision and careful shot placement. The presence of captivating willow trees and bunkers around the greens adds an extra layer of excitement to our gameplay. And we cannot forget to mention the creek itself, which meanders through the course, coming into play on several holes, including the 11th, 12th, 14th, and 16th. It adds beauty and complexity, forcing us to carefully select our clubs and execute shots to avoid water hazards. Navigating these holes is a true test of skill and adds to the overall enjoyment of the course. Willow Creek Golf Course, now under new ownership, continues to impress us with its stunning beauty, excellent course conditions, and friendly staff. The warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the staff makes us feel like valued guests every time we visit. Their dedication and passion shine through in every interaction, enhancing our overall experience and making us eager to return. The recent developments surrounding Willow Creek have brought a renewed sense of excitement to the Rochester golfing community. Owners Will Lancaster and Andy Black's passion, expertise, and fresh ideas are leaving a lasting impact on this cherished course. Willow Creek Golf Course is undeniably a must-visit destination for golfers of all levels of experience. It offers a chance to create lasting memories while experiencing the joy of golfing in a truly extraordinary setting. We cannot wait to see what the future holds for Willow Creek and eagerly anticipate creating more unforgettable moments on its fairways. We eagerly anticipate one more redemption round to end our 2023 season on December 23rd, taking advantage of the near 50-degree Minnesota temperatures. We are excited to share in the joy and create memories that will last a lifetime at this extraordinary destination in Southeastern MN. We know we will be! -Couple Birdies