COURT HOUSE — Attention golfers — memberships are available at one of the area’s most historic, challenging and friendly private golf clubs.
Incorporated in 1916, Wildwood is one of the oldest and most respected clubs in the region. The course is one of only two in the state designed and built by famed golf course architects Wayne E. Stiles and John Van Kleek.
It was completed in 1924 and despite a few changes over the years including the addition of two new holes in 1995, the Stiles design remains mostly unchanged.
The club has a history of some famous players walking its fairways and greens.
On July 21, 1923, an exhibition match took place between Hall of Fame golfer Walter Hagan and Joe Kirkwood. In addition, as a Coast Guard recruit in the early 1950s, Arnold Palmer frequented Wildwood to play and practice before starting his legendary professional career.
The course offers four tee areas on each hole, with an overall measurement of 6,714 yards from the back tees and 5,318 yards from the front. Compared to some of the modern giants, Wildwood is somewhat short, but the narrow fairways, four lakes affecting eight holes, small push-up greens and immaculate conditioning make it a true test for golfers of all abilities.
As a truly private club, Wildwood offers members: valuable instruction from a team of PGA Professionals led by Fred Riedel; outstanding practice facilities including a driving range and putting greens; a grill room and banquet facilities for the entertainment of members and their guests; opportunity to make tee times seven days in advance; and a pace of play that regularly keeps a round of golf under four hours.
“Greens Superintendent Jeff Staeger and his crew keep the course in great shape — it’s second-to-none,” said club President Bob Johnson.
“Wildwood is a great everyday course,” Riedel added. “With the wind blowing in varying directions and holes cut in different locations, it’s like playing a different golf course every time.”
“Not only is it an excellent golf course with great practice facilities and conditions being the best around, but its best feature is that it’s extremely friendly,” added Riedel. “It’s such a homey atmosphere. When you walk into the clubhouse, it feels like you’re walking in the front door of your home.”
Riedel said a player looking to find a game can do so any time of day all year long.
“Members are very welcoming to new players into their groups,” he said. “It’s like a big family here. It’s very comfortable. It’s the perfect private club environment.”
Wildwood member Bill Darling said he’s “forged friendships at the club that have lasted for years.”
“There are many programs that enhance membership,” said member Francey Burke, “such as men’s and ladies leagues, a newly formed mixed league, as well as beginner ladies’ clinics and an active junior league.”
Wildwood has been home to some exciting tournaments including the C.A. “Gus” Hiel Memorial Tournament (formerly the Eastern States Inaugural) and the William H. Bright Memorial Tournament, which was once captured by PGA Tour Professional Al Besselink.
Wildwood’s Club Championship was dominated over the years by assistant club pro Terry Smick, who has won 15 overall including 10 in a row starting in 1986. Smick’s total was the most since Clarence “Spike” Fisher won 12 tournaments over six decades, starting in 1928 and finishing in 1970.
The club also hosts the annual “Spring For VIM” tournament, an all-ladies golf event that raises funds for Volunteers in Medicine of Cape May County.
“In the first three years of the event, we have raised over $80,000 for VIM,” said Burke, who founded the tournament. “New this year for the May 19, 2010 tournament will be an appearance by LPGA Pro Kellie Stenzel, one of Golf For Women Magazine’s Top 50 Golf Teaching Pros. The event has been sold out for players each year.”
Wildwood Golf & Country Club has opened its membership books with several membership options for golfers of every age and skill level including an introductory promotional program that allows individuals to “try on” a membership for six months.
For more information on membership, please contact General Manager Bob Keating, General Manager at (609) 465-7823.
Contact Hart at (609) 886-8600 Ext 35 or at: jhart@cmcherald.com
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