Golf Course Overview: Baraboo Country Club By Brian Weis

Local and traveling golfers love to research course before playing, whether it is to gain some local knowledge or to set the expectation for their experience. Below is an interview with Clint Hutchens who shares some valuable insight about the property, its most talked about holes and the signature dish/drink to consume at the 19th hole.

How Does Your Course Differ From The Others In The Area? Our fortunate topography as created by the Baraboo Bluffs, provides our course with elevation changes and Draper Creek, which meanders through 9 of our 18 holes. The combination of beauty, challenge and playability makes the BCC a challenge you will want to indulge in again and again, as you try to master its subtle nuances. Not overly long, our course demands you to think your way through club selection and shot placement. The 6,591 back tees will feel like 6,900.

Our greens offer an amazing finish to each hole. Our Stimpmeter readings vary throughout the season, but usually run from 9-11. Our superintendent deserves a lot of credit for his product. Fortunately, or for some of you unfortunately, your putts will roll true and consistently all day.

For someone who has not played the course in awhile, has there been any new changes/rennovations to the course or property? In 2013 we undertook a rather extensive addition to our tee ground offerings. We will be adding 22 new teeing grounds to our course during the next two years which will enhance the playing experience for golfers of all abilities. Most of the focus was on the forward tee configuration; however, a few holes will see a little extra length for you low-handicappers as well.

What is your course's answer to Amen Corner? (Describe your best/hardest 3 back/back/back holes) Hole #6, Par 4, 414 yards (back tee): This hole begins with a demanding tee shot which has OB left and large old trees to the right side. The landing area slopes right so try to favor the left side when picking a line. Your second shot will be uphill to a green protected on both sides by large bunkers. The green isn't too bad, but is rather deep at 26 paces.

Hole #7, Par 3, 201 yards (back tee): This a demanding par three requiring 120 yards over Draper Creek, a deep green and well bunkered complex. This green is 36 paces from front to back making club selection very important. Long usually isn't good.

Hole #8, Par5, 524 yards (back tee): This hole is consistently the most difficult on the entire course. Don't let the yardage fool you. This is a 3-shot par 5 all day. Your tee shot must clear Draper Creek again, upping the ante just a bit. The 2nd shot may be the most important. Finding the landing area is of vital importance to have any shot of hitting this green in regulation. Your third shot must travel up to a blind/elevated green that is stingily receptive. After hitting three perfect shots and reaching the putting surface, your adventure has just begun. This one slopes pretty severe back to front...just don't be above the hole, OK?

What is your course's claim to fame, or is there a little known fact that golfers should know about the property? Our course is home to ancient Native Effigy mounds. They have been deemed as sensitive areas, and require special care. Golfers are asked to respect these areas when playing by taking a free drop when necessary. They are in the shapes of animals...use your imagination!

What tournaments/events have you (recently) hosted or will be hosting? In 2013 we hosted a WI Junior PGA Tour event and a WIAA Regional Tournament. In 2014 we welcome back the WI Junior PGA on July 29th and will be hosting a WIAA Sectional Tournament on June 2nd. This course offers an almost perfect layout for tournament play of all ages/abilities.

Besides golf, what other amenities do you offer if a golfer wants to spend most of the day at your facility After your round the Baraboo Country Club has the wonderful Fore Seasons Restaurant and Bar available for you to unwind, re-live the round and have a few colds ones to celebrate. Chef Jon Pierre Peavey offers a great menu and even better food!

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