Sagebrush

First impressions often count for a lot but in this case the relatively dull opening hole can be overlooked as the architect was merely attempting to overcome the severe change in elevation on the site by routing a wide, forgiving par five 1st hole straight uphill.

Thereafter, the holes rise and fall across, up and down the hillside with many of the fairways offering more than one route from tee to green. The two par threes on the inward half are played either side of the driveable short par four 11th, leaving a long run of challenging two and three shot holes on the way back to the clubhouse.

In keeping with the minimalist approach to many things at Sagebrush, there are no distance markers on any of the fairways and, rather oddly, neither are there rakes in any of the bunkers – though some may feel the latter idea is taking the “back to golfing roots” philosophy a bit too far.

Sagebrush ran into serious financial difficulties and closed its tees for play in the fall of 2014 and was due to reopen in 2016 as a high-end pay-and-play public facility managed by Troon Golf, however, the course remained closed through to 2021.

In 2021, Randy Smith (the club’s new Head Professional) contacted us and commented as follows:

“A small group headed by Langley real estate developer Andrew Knott now own the long-term lease on the property, which sits above Nicola Lake, fifteen minutes east of Merritt BC. Andrew and his group are making substantial investments to the course and the overall property in the efforts to re-establish the Course as one of the best in Canada. The Club features some very stylish and comfortable suites available for overnight stays as well. The ultimate goal is to create a unique residential and destination golf community.

Former superintendent Neil Pilon has been brought back to restore the Golf Course which has been neglected in recent years. Pilon and his crew have done considerable work since last fall and have been busy since the winter snowfall lifted. Neil is supported by General Manager, Mark Strong and Head Golf Professional, Randy Smith who have been developing all aspects of the overall Club and Golf Operations.”

In the summer of 2021 Sagebrush re-opened and will no doubt soon return to its rightful place in the Canadian rankings.