July 10, 2004

By: Alan Glover
Website: http://www.1st-in-golf.com

Introducing the Tater Hill Golf Course

The Okemo Golf Division purchased Windham Golf Club in Chester, VT. Windham Golf Club was the former nine-hole Tater Hill Golf Course and is located just 17 miles southwest of Ludlow. It was previously known for its small greens, moderate to high degree of difficulty and challenging layout.

The course witnessed several years of gradual modification in the 1990's, including the addition of nine new holes of golf. The new nine that was built turned out to be considerably tougher to play than the old nine. In 2002, the course witnessed even more changes to its greens, fairways and clubhouse facility. Under Okemo's management, the new golf course will soon undergo many more exciting changes!

The very first step on the road to Windham's transformation was its name. "We chose to retain the name of Tater Hill Golf Club to preserve the tradition and history of the course, commented Jim Remy, Golf Division Manager. Having developed and cultivated a reputation for providing an exceptional golf product with Okemo Valley Golf Club, it was a natural evolution, not to mention a good business decision, to purchase Tater Hill Golf Club and retain its former name.

The second step was to retain PGA Golf Professional, John Pawlak as the Head Professional and Manager for the new Tater Hill Golf Club. John is no stranger to Tater Hill or the golf industry. He has been the Head Professional at Tater Hill for the past six years. Previous to that, John was the Head Professional at Marsh Creek Country Club and John Cain Golf Club. He also held Assistant positions at Harbour Town Golf Links and Amelia Island Plantation.

Under Remy's direction, and the watchful eye of John Pawlak, the vision for Tater Hill Golf Club will be to place the quality of the product, along with a high level of guest service as the #1 priority. An emphasis will also be placed upon the overall quality of the course maintenance to ensure that the golf course will be in prime playing condition every day of the season.

Rodney Williams, Head Course Superintendent for the Okemo Golf Division will collaborate with course designer, Barry Jordan to oversee the construction and renovation of Tater Hill. Rodney was an integral part of the golf construction for Okemo Valley in 2000 when it was transformed from a 9-hole course to an 18-hole championship layout. Barry was involved in Tater Hill's course re-design in 2002, which helped to create a wider appeal than the original expansion layout. Together, they will oversee the construction and renovation of the course this summer.

Nine holes of golf will remain open to members and the playing public all summer long, while the newer 9-holes will be closed for renovation. Six of the nine greens on the back course will be changed, along with an enhanced course maintenance program. Greens, tees and fairways will be changed to enhance the layout and flow of the golf course so it will be playable for all ability levels. Several sets of tee boxes will insure that all players can enjoy the course, while providing a challenge for the accomplished golfer.

Along with 9-holes of golf, Tater Hill Golf Club features a fully stocked Pro Shop, driving range area, practice putting green, PGA golf instructional programs and the Clubhouse Restaurant, which serves lunch daily and a special Sunday Brunch. Also see: golfing specialties.

Author Notes:

Alan Glover contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.1st-in-golf.com.  A source of information on golf equipment, golf manufacturers, supplies, tips and more.