Now that the worst of winter has passed and the signs of spring are everywhere, it will soon be time to tee-off. And one golf club in St. John’s wants to make this golf season all about families.
Bally Haly Country Club is widely known as Newfoundland and Labrador’s most historic and picturesque golf course, but Jason Hill, a golf professional at the 110-year-old club, wants people to know that Bally Haly encourages everyone in the family to take up the sport. In fact, they are so invested in families, and the benefits they can get through golf, they offer a free junior membership with every adult membership at the club.
Hill says family golf has many key benefits. For example, it is the perfect opportunity for parents to teach and practice some valuable life lessons, such as honestly, integrity and patience, and, of course, etiquette. Golf is not only a skill, but it encourages critical thinking, such as thinking ahead, looking at outside influences and how they affect your decisions (wind speeds and direction etc.). It is also a great time to show kids that practice actually does pay off.
The other key benefit of family golf is that it is not only fun, but it can be an excellent workout. If you skip the golf cart, you can actually walk 2.5 miles on a nine-hole course without even realizing it.
A family round of golf can also create long-lasting memories. Kids grow up quickly and eventually start their own lives, so every minute you get to spend time together as a family is time to cherish.
To make it even easier for families, Hill says they also offer the spouse of a new member a free, one-year, 10-round membership when they join.
“We really are about families and helping them create life-long memories while learning a sport they will love,” says Hill.
“We also allow early morning golf, so you can get out before the first tee-time,” he says, adding they are one of the only clubs in the area that offers this to accommodate everyone’s busy schedules.
In honour of the club’s 110-year anniversary, Hill says they have even lowered the membership fee to reflect the year they opened.
“The first 350 people that come to the door this year will get this price [$1,908], and we now have less than 100 available, Hill says.
For more information, visit www.ballyhaly.com or call (709) 726-4021 to learn more about the benefits of a family membership.
