Dufferin course improvements paying off

Dufferin Heights Country Club president Claude Sincennes is well aware of the sad truth that the golf industry is suffering. Memberships steadily decrease, courses all across the country are closing and falling into disrepair, he said. Golf is seen by some as a dying sport for an older demographic. However, Sincennes believes he has turned the tables for Dufferin Heights.

“We began an investment program. It’s rare.” he said “People don’t invest in golf anymore. We decided to do the opposite.” His risk paid off. Sincennes proudly explained how the club decided to put money into their course, investing over $100 000 in embellishments and extensions to several holes.

“Our profits increased tenfold” he said, adding that their boutique sales doubled since last year. Dufferin’s memberships have increased substantially, Sincennes added.

Not only that, but the Canadian Women’s Amateur Golf Championship will be held at Dufferin Heights this year. This is a big deal, said Sincennes, since tournaments of this type are usually held in bigger cities, like Montreal.

“Our goal is to be the number one semi-private golf club,” he commented.

The investments made into the course and hosting the championship are definitely signs that Sincennes’ ambition is bearing fruit.

He went on to say that the club’s investment in future golfers is another draw.

“We’re sort of non-profit. Of course, we need to cover our operation costs, but we just want people, especially young people, to come play and get interested in golfing.”

Dufferin Heights has some very interesting deals for young golfers, according to Sincennes. “We’re very proud of our pricing” he said. The club offers $85 specials to players 18 years and under. They can come play any time for a whole year, an offer usually worth approximately $500, according to the club president. Furthermore, adults can golf for $895 at Dufferin Heights. Elsewhere, the price jumps into the $1,500 range.

“We really want to encourage golfing, and support the local golfing community” summarized Sincennes.