SentryWorld Golf Course in Stevens Point, Wisconsin - A Championship Layout
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Introduction to SentryWorld Golf Course in Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Nestled in the heart of Central Wisconsin lies SentryWorld, an award-winning golf course that has hosted prestigious tournaments like the 43rd Senior Open. As the last day of this major championship comes to an end, it's worth reflecting on what makes this course so special for both professional and amateur golfers.
History and Origins of SentryWorld
SentryWorld was built in 1982 by Sentry Insurance to host the 1983 U.S. Women's Open. The renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Jr designed the championship 18-hole course that scenically spreads over 230 acres of rolling Wisconsin countryside.
Over the years, millions have been invested to keep the course updated and tournament ready. In 2019, a major renovation project led by Jay Blasi and Dana Fry included re-grassing the greens, updating the bunkers, expanding the driving range and other state-of-the-art improvements costing $3 million.
Hosting Prominent Golf Tournaments
The premiere golf course has hosted six major championships over its history, including two U.S. Women's Opens and the U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship. SentryWorld also hosted the U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship in 2015 and the Wisconsin State Open annually.
In 2023, SentryWorld held one of the five majors on PGA Tour Champions - the U.S. Senior Open. Top senior players like Ernie Els, Colin Montgomerie and hometown favorites Jerry Kelly and Steve Stricker competed on the challenging SentryWorld layout over four days for the coveted Francis D. Ouimet Memorial Trophy.
The Course Layout and Key Features
SentryWorld offers a true test for competitive and casual golfers. The Course Rating is 75.7 and has a Slope Rating of 147. Here are some notable holes and features:
- The signature Flower Hole No. 16 – one of the most photographed holes in championship golf thanks to the flower garden encircling the green.
- The famous Anvil Hole No. 8 – a challenging 248-yard par 3 requiring a precise iron shot over a wetland onto a narrow two-tiered green.
- Strategically-placed bunkers and sloping greens add complexity for players. Accuracy is a must.
- Mature trees frame many holes, adding natural beauty.
- Bentgrass greens and fairways provide world-class playing surfaces. The zoysia rough requires accuracy off the tee box.
Practice Facilities
Golfers looking to sharpen specific aspects of their game are well served by SentryWorld's extensive practice facilities, which include:
- The three-acre Natural Area Putting Course lets you work on reading those challenging putts.
- A dedicated Short Game Practice Area provides various trouble shots to test your chipping and pitching.
- The expansive Driving Range has 44 hitting bays on two tiers to dial in your drives. An array of targets let you practice draws, fades and accuracy.
Awards and Accolades
SentryWorld has earned many honors cementing its reputation as one of America's finest golf courses, such as:
- Golf Digest's Best in State Ranking: Top course in Wisconsin on multiple occasions.
- Golfweek's Best Courses You Can Play: Listed as the #1 public-access course in Wisconsin for years.
- Golf Magazine’s Premier Properties: One of the top course renovations in the country.
The SentryWorld Experience for Amateur Golfers
While the pros make SentryWorld look easy, most amateur golfers see it as a true test requiring accuracy and nerves of steel. Here's what you can expect as an everyday player visiting this championship course:
Booking a Tee Time
SentryWorld is open to the public from April through October. Green fees range from $80 to $240 depending on season, day of week and time of day. Juniors under 17 and college students receive discounted rates.
To book a tee time, visit their website or call the pro shop. Tournaments and other events may limit public play during peak season, so schedule your round early.
Arriving for Your Round
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tee time to check in, practice, rent clubs (if needed) and get ready. Soft spikes are required on course shoes to protect the quality playing surfaces.
Friendly staff in the golf shop can provide tips and pointers as you make final preparations for tackling this championship layout as a casual golfer.
During Your Round
SentryWorld provides a supreme test of shotmaking and course management skills. Most golfers will need to club up given the thick rough and challenging pin placements. Lag putting is a smart play on these quick, sloping greens.
Don't forget to pause and soak in the natural scenery. The Flower Hole and signature island green on No. 7 are also perfect spots for photo ops to remember your experience.
After finishing 18 holes on this championship course, celebrate by grabbing a bite to eat while you relive all the great (and not so great) moments with your playing partners in the Fairway Grill.
Why SentryWorld is a Must-Play Golf Course
Here are a few reasons why golfers make visiting SentryWorld a bucket list item when traveling to Central Wisconsin:
Play Where the Pros Play
How often do everyday golfers get to tee it up on a course that recently hosted the top players on the PGA Tour Champions? SentryWorld lets you walk in the footsteps of legends and see if you can match their skill.
Full Golf Resort Experience
Beyond the heralded course, SentryWorld offers outstanding practice areas, top-notch service and amenities like the Fairway Grill with outdoor patio seating overlooking the 18th green. It's a complete destination for accommodating traveling golf parties.
Beauty of Nature Surrounds You
The property borders more than 1,000 acres of wilderness showcasing the natural charm of Central Wisconsin. Mature trees frame scenic holes while wetlands, streams and flowers adorn the landscape around the course.
Affordable Luxury Golf
For less than other ranked U.S. Open course sites, you get to experience a world-class layout and practice facilities. Stay-and-play packages with neighboring hotels and resorts make SentryWorld even more accessible for budget-minded golf trips.
Fun for All Skill Levels
While demanding for better golfers, SentryWorld offers multiple tee boxes to accommodate different abilities. Less experienced players enjoy the scenery and signature holes while veterans face a tough examination of their shotmaking skills shot after shot.
With beauty, history, amenities and access for visitors, SentryWorld delivers a one-of-a-kind golf experience that should be on every player's must-see list.
FAQs
What is the signature hole at SentryWorld?
The signature hole at SentryWorld Golf Course is the beautiful par 3 16th hole called the "Flower Hole." It is surrounded by a flower garden and one of the most photographed holes in championship golf.
Does SentryWorld Golf Course allow walk-ons?
Yes, SentryWorld does allow walk-ons subject to course availability. It's best to call ahead to check. Golf carts are also available to rent. Caddies can be requested based on availability.
What time of year is SentryWorld Golf Course open?
SentryWorld Golf Course in Stevens Point, Wisconsin is open to the public for play from April through October. The course and restaurant are closed in the winter months.
Does SentryWorld Golf Course have a driving range?
Yes. SentryWorld has an expansive driving range with 44 hitting bays on two tiers. There are also separate practice facilities for putting, chipping and other short-game shots on site.
How much does it cost to play SentryWorld?
Green fees at SentryWorld Golf Course typically range from $80 to $240 depending on factors like time of day, day of week and season. Juniors and college students can receive discounted rates on public tee times.
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