Veteran’s Memorial named Iowa 9-Hole Course of the Year

Representatives of Veterans Memorial Golf Club attended the Iowa Golf Association’s Annual Awards Banquet on Friday, April 3,  where VMGC was named the nine-hole course of the year. 

At the ceremony, the representatives were presented with a plaque memorializing the honor by Iowa Golf Association President, Tom Christensen.

Veteran’s Memorial was nominated for the award by Clear Lake Mayor Nelson Crabb. In addition to the application, many long-time members and community leaders included letters of support. In their letters, many referenced the role the course plays with-in the community, not only as a recreational resource but also as an important community asset for economic development.

It was noted by the IGA that a key component to selecting VMGC as course of the year was the efforts that have been made to rehabilitate the grounds and the operation since it teetered on the edge of closing after the 2010 season.  Many of the efforts have been led by a dedicated group of members, who have formed boards and committees to oversee the property.  Together, with legions of volunteers, many rehabilitation efforts have been addressed. 

“I appreciate the Iowa Golf Association’s recognition of the achievement of the VMGC Foundation Board of Directors and countless volunteers for preserving and enhancing this important recreational quality of life amenity,” said Mayor Crabb.  “The spirit of volunteerism and community-mindedness on display every day at VMGC reminds me of how fortunate we are to live in this community.”

VMGC Foundation Board President Jay Barragy extended his thanks to all of those who have supported the course not only during the past four transitionary seasons but over the many years of the courses existence. 

“In 1946, VMGC was dedicated to honor veterans, who so bravely served to protect our freedoms.  For more than 50 years their organizations provided outstanding stewardship to the property.  In 2011, The VMGC Foundation board of directors re-dedicated VMGC with a mission to restore the course to its past state as one of the premiere, historical nine-hole courses in Iowa as well as - Read More Via e-Edition