Emily Granholm, ace Paw barista, loves to spread the news about local entrepreneurs. This week she fired a few questions at Wendy Hill, who, along with her husband Mike, runs Twin Valley Golf Club.
Question: What is your philosophy in running Twin Valley Golf Club?
Answer: To honor the history and tradition of the game while offering a community amenity for players of all ability levels where everyone is welcome.
Q: When did you open? What made you want to run a country club?
A: We took over two-and-a-half years ago. We changed it from Country Club to Golf Club as we want the community to know that we welcome everyone to enjoy this great game. Mike ran three golf courses for another company when he was approached about this. He fell in love with the area, the people and the amazing potential this course has. Donald Ross design on the front nine and Gary Player design on the back nine means this course is challenging, fun and beautiful, offering something to everyone.
Q: How many members do you have? Is it expensive to be a member?
A: Our membership is a value and not expensive. We never ask for a long-term commitment. If someone does not feel they are getting a value for their membership they can end it. Part of those membership dues supports our junior golf program. We strongly encourage young people to get into this sport. And to not cause a financial burden on families we offer free golf for juniors 16 and younger and free golf club rental for junior golfers.
Q: What’s the average age of your members?
A: We have a wide age range of members. In more recent years we have seen a rise in our 40-and-under memberships. People are seeing this as a place to enjoy not just golf but many social activities and for their families to have a place they feel at home.
Q: What do you feel is the biggest challenge in running your establishment?
A: A challenge in the golf industry is always the weather. With all the improvements we have made to the course, Mother Nature must also cooperate. Just the right amount of sun and rain and temperatures. Also, getting the word out to surrounding counties that we are here and they are welcome.
Q: What’s been the most rewarding experience in owning a country club? Is it what you expected?
A: Twin Valley Golf Club is rewarding when people see and appreciate how far it has come in the past few years. Mike has put blood, sweat and tears into making it better every day.
Q:. Do you like to golf? Are you good?
A: I love the game! I love the outdoors, the smell of fresh-cut grass and the sunrise over a golf course. I love the etiquette of the sport. Mike was a junior golfer and has loved the game since he was young. And it taught him so many skills he could use through life which is why he is so passionate about young players getting into the sport. He is good, I am not.
Q:. If you could tell people one thing, or want them to know about the country club, what would that be?
A: Golf is for everyone. You are never too young or old to start. Don’t be afraid, just try it.
Q: Anything else you’d like to tell us?
A: This course and club have such a longstanding history here in Anson County and so many people think it is still members only and it is not. We support our community and love the people here. If you have not been out in to see the changes please take time to come by and say hi!