Eagle Bend off to a fast start

Eagle Bend Golf Course made it feel a little more like spring in the Flathead last week with their official start of the season on Wednesday.

"The weather cooperated and we had a good turn out," said Mike Wynne, the golf pro at Eagle Bend.

Ninety-three people took to the greens on opening day and Friday's sunny weather brought the club the busiest day so far with 105 golfers.

"We had a lot more players this year because it was later in the season and the weather is better," Wynne said.

Last year the club opened on March 21.

"Next to Polson we are usually the first course in the area to open each year because we are close to the Lake and don't get as much snow," Wynne said. "So we get a lot of people coming here this time of year who we won't see much all summer because they'll be playing their home courses mostly. We've been getting a lot of Canadians too because they still have snow up there."

Warmer temperatures have finally melted off the last of the snow at Eagle Bend and the course is continually improving from its winter state.

"The golf course is getting better every day," Wynne said. "We have the Western Montana Chapter PGA Pro Am coming up April 27, so we are under the gun to have the course in top condition by then. We are looking pretty good for the end of the month, though. That and the May 2 and 3 Cherry Blossom Tournament are sort of the official start to the season here."

Those that use the course the most, like Eagle Bend member Ryan Keenan, agreed that the course is coming along.

"The course is in good shape," said the 11 year old, who golfs nearly daily. "The greens are a little bit rough, but still good enough to play."

A few rough patches aren't keeping him from being excited to be back on his home course after playing out of the area during the off season.

"It was nice to see everyone that you know from playing at the club," Keenan said. "I'm really excited for the season."

Wynne said he felt that was the case with all of the members.

"It's good to just get the season started," he said. "I think everyone was anxious to get back to playing."