Page 24 - GreenMaster Winter 2024

u FEATURE u GARRY HAYNES MS, AGS, DIRECTOR OF AGRONOMY, PLAY GOLF CALGARY
Redefining Golf at Lil Devil:
Practice on the T-1 bentgrass putting green in front of the hut at Lil Devil 9-hole golf course.
In today’s fast-paced world, finding
time for a traditional round of golf has become increasingly difficult. With family obligations, work commitments, and other activities competing for our time, a four-hour round of golf can seem like a luxury many can’t afford. Recognizing this challenge, Play Golf Calgary has developed a unique solution: Lil Devil, a nine-hole “short” golf course designed to provide a fun and fast golfing experience, welcoming everyone from beginners to advanced players. With a round taking less than 1.5 hours, Lil Devil is redefining how we think about golf,
Artificial mats on the tee decks help to minimize turf wear and tear in the shoulder months.
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making it more accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages and skill levels.
This walking-only nine-hole course has gained immense popularity over the past few years, offering a budget-friendly option for families looking for a quick and entertaining outing. With a price of just around $20 per person, families can now choose to play golf instead of traditional outings like bowling or going to the movies. Since its opening in 2014, Lil Devil has seen substantial growth, doubling its annual rounds from 15,000 to 30,000—a clear testament to its
appeal. In 2022, the course introduced an exciting new addition: the Mini Devil. This 18-hole mini-putt course, wrapped around the Lil Devil hut, offers families yet another opportunity to enjoy golf in a more relaxed, casual setting.
The Mini Devil course is a fantastic way to introduce people to golf. By starting with a putter in hand, newcomers can ease into the game without the intimidation that sometimes comes with playing on a full-sized course. Our design philosophy was simple: create a smaller venue that still offers the feel of playing real golf. The Lil Devil