Champion Lakes Golf and Country Club
Amazing natural elements and a friendly atmosphere bring golfers back again and again
Kevin Nesbitt is undertaking his fourth season with the Champion Lakes Golf and Country Club this year; he is the general manager and PGA professional at the course. Originally from Victoria, Nesbitt worked at the Rossland-Trail Country Club for 17 years before joining the Champion Lakes club. His career has taken him to many parts of the province and he is an accomplished coach, having completed a number of certification programs and elite level teaching and coaching levels.
“The Champion Lakes course is a nine-hole treed course right in the valley below the provincial park after which it is named,” said Nesbitt. “It showcases three ponds which simulate the three lakes of the Champion Lakes park.”
These ponds, the mountains, lush cedar trees, a winding creek and the 30 bunkers on the course combine to create the recipe for an entertaining game of golf. The trees have been incorporated into the layout in some areas, and this makes play interesting. Champion Lakes’ biggest challenge is the first hole (a par 5); this hole allows golfers to practise or showcase their driving. It is straight and long, at a distance of 556 yards.
Nesbitt said keen Beaver Valley golfers were responsible for getting the Boyd Barr-designed course up and running in 1992. The volunteers received funding from both private and commercial sources as well as from government grants.
Nesbitt is proud of what the club has to offer, and he said the atmosphere is really friendly.
“The atmosphere here is what keeps bringing people back,” said Nesbitt. “It is very unique in that everyone welcomes you (and) there is a large volunteer base who go out of their way to get things done and help make sure things are going in the right direction.”
Nesbitt said that the relaxing surroundings are a huge attraction for visitors, and the overall length of the course is not overbearing. The four sets of tees provide options for different abilities to play and there is a good range of variety of holes.
“The course sets a nice, relaxing pace,” said Nesbitt. “We welcome all visitors and our friendly pro shop is a great place to stop in for a visit.”
According to Nesbitt, many retirees and locals play Champion Lakes.
“There are a lot of people who have moved here for the lifestyle change,” said Nesbitt, “for the biking, skiing, fishing and hiking as well as the golf.”
Part of the course's attraction is the clubhouse. The Eagle's Nest Restaurant has a view of the No. 5 par 3 as well as the No. 9 green. It can accommodate large groups and individuals alike, offering an attractive menu and an opportunity for visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.