Club Captain Message
Best of the season everyone,
It’s that wonderful time of year again at Niakwa. While Mother Nature has taken her time warming things up, she treated us kindly over the off-season. Thanks to the diligent work of Shawn Major and his team, the course has once again emerged in spectacular condition—ready for another memorable season.
A sincere thank you goes out to our outgoing President, Darin Downey, along with the Board members, for their dedication and leadership over the past several years. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed and are deeply appreciated.
We were thrilled to see such a great turnout at the opening cocktail party. Many thanks to the clubhouse, staff, and management for hosting such a fantastic event (and for ensuring no one left hungry!).
As always, we extend a warm welcome to our new members. We’re delighted to have you join the Niakwa community. With that, a few friendly reminders to help preserve what makes this club so special:
- First and foremost, it’s a privilege to be part of this community—let’s make sure our staff feel that same appreciation. A simple hello or word of thanks goes a long way
- On the course, there is an expectation of a four-hour round. Please be ready to play and do your best to keep pace with the group ahead. However, early groups are asked to play in no less than 3½ hours (no speed records please) which will allow maintenance staff the time they need to complete their work safely.
- Bunkers were a challenge last season, so let’s all do our part. It is every golfer’s duty to rake bunkers thoroughly after use—especially those playing later in the day. Contrary to popular belief, there is no magical overnight bunker fairy. Please note bunker rakes are now to be left outside of bunkers.
- Ball mark repair is equally important. Gently insert your divot tool around the edges of the mark and ease the turf back together—never lift from underneath, as this damages the roots. A light tap to finish, and you’ve done your part to keep the greens in top shape.
- Divot mix is your best friend out there—use it consistently to ensure healthy turf. Replaced divots may not survive the mower, leaving behind bare spots. If you’re carrying your clubs, please be sure to bring divot mix along.
- Golf carts should remain on the fairways and, especially on par threes, on designated paths. And when applying bug spray, please do so only on paths or in bunkers—spraying on the turf can cause immediate damage.
- For those who smoke, please be mindful of others around you, particularly on the range and practice greens. And a gentle but firm reminder: cigarette butts belong in proper receptacles, never on the course.
- Finally, if you’re using the back practice green, kindly collect your balls when finished so it’s ready for the next group. Leaving you balls and walking away is not proper etiquette.
Niakwa is a special place because of the people who make up this community. Let’s all do our part to maintain the standards and spirit that make it so enjoyable for everyone.
Wishing you all a fantastic 2026 golf season—may your drives be long, your putts be true, and your rounds be just the right side of four hours.
Warm regards,
Jay Doyle
Niakwa Club Captain
