The first order of business as we left the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” and entered South Dakota was to find a golf store to replenish all the balls we left behind in the water of Minnesota. We are working our way to the final destination on the MN, SD, ND, +4: The Final Frontier – 50 in 75 adventure. Now reloaded with additional golf balls, our initial stop was just across the border at Kuehn Park Golf Course which is part of the City of Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation Department. Let’s take a “birds eye” view of this par 30 layout.
Shot Value: For a “short” course, this track can be a test for all levels of golfers. It is definitely not your basic par 3 or pitch and putt course. Some of the holes will test your thought process about which club you want to pull out of your bag. The par 4’s may offer a risk/reward drive for all those who dare!
Design Variety: There are six par 3’s ranging from 123 to 222 yards. The three par 4’s measure 341 to 383 yards. Holes #8 and #9 are both par 4’s with risk/reward tee shots. The par 3 third hole plays 222 yards and required this old man to use his driver to reach the green! There are three sets of tees: Blue (2076 yards); Yellow (1897); and Red (1704). You will find bunkers on a few holes and at the last hole there is a small pond by the green that may be an issue for any wayward shot.
Memorability: This is a short course with some character. Large trees can be obstacles for the high handicap golfer, but the large greens will also help that level of golfer. The two finishing holes will challenge everyone.
Aesthetics: It’s just a pleasant walk around a city park. There are houses nearby, but the large trees will hide (and protect) them.
Conditioning: The course was well maintained and the greens were in excellent shape.
Ambience: We arrived early for our tee time, and the staff was very accommodating about getting us out earlier. The pro shop does not have a restaurant/bar, but has enough snacks to help nourish your round.
Rating – Uncategorized: This was a good stop for these four road-weary senior golfers. It had just enough challenging holes to get us focused and engaged. Even though we did not use them, the driving range and putting green were at full capacity. With holes ranging from from 123 yards to 383 yards, Kuehn Park GC will test just about every club in your bag, so don’t let this par 30 track dissuede you from giving it a try.
2901 S. Kuehn Park Rd., Sioux Falls, SD 57106; 605-362-2811; www.siouxfallsgolf.com
