Little Rock closures

Having just read Wally Hall’s column about the golf-course closings, I feel the need for a rejoinder. I do not believe as Wally says that golf is declining in Arkansas. Indeed, it seems to be prospering. Just recently the Palmer Cup, one of the most prestigious amateur events in the nation, was played in Roland at the Alotian Club, the site I believe for another nationally prominent amateur event coming this year. The LPGA has a regular tour stop in Northwest Arkansas that has been very successful.

The two courses being closed are played largely by senior golfers. How will one working man’s club, Rebsamen, handle more golfers? First Tee has only nine holes. The repurposed courses are not going to be very purposive for men and women 50 and over. Golf is one of the very few sports older folks can play well into their 70s and beyond. How many older Arkansans are going to be playing soccer and softball when this repurposing takes place? The closing of these courses disadvantages a substantial Little Rock and satellite community demographic.

Another inaccurate observation was that golf has priced itself out of the market. I don’t even have to check to know that green fees at the closed courses were in the $35 range for 18 holes. Where can you spend an entire morning or afternoon with friends for that price? I just went bowling for the first time in several years and an alley cost $23 an hour, not including shoe rental.

One last point: Hindman has status as a wildlife refuge, as I recall. The number of birds alone make this a beautiful place to bird and walk. When you consider the timber and babbling brooks, you have to give much thought to how that property will be changed for the better. By the way, I belong to a private club that has been accessible to golfers whose organizations schedule tournaments there. I played Hindman last year with a neighbor and had a great time. I will, as many, I believe, miss these courses. ART ENGLISH

Little Rock