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Hello Golfers,
Please enjoy the second series on golf in our area. This edition includes a discussion with Scott Keller of Quail Valley Golf Course as well as a link to an update on local outings, junior golf programs, and an audience poll.
QUAIL VALLEY GOLF COURSE
900 Teeter Road, Littlestown PA
Par 72; 7,042 yards 69.3 Rating/ 123 Slope
On May 10 ( National Golf Day) I met with Scott Keller, the General Manager of Littlestown’s Quail Valley Golf Course.
I asked Keller about the history of the course. He stated that it was originally developed by Baltimore contractor Paul Hicks and opened in 1993. Hicks did the course layout and design but brought in a golf course architect for the green complexes.
In 2004 Keller and his brother Collin purchased the property and it is now being operated by the Keller family.
Golf pro Brady Leppo recently joined the team as director of golf operations. Doug Hansen a PGA pro handles the teaching duties at Quail.
My view is that Quail Valley is one of the best-maintained public courses in our area and I asked Keller about it. He said they have done a lot with the course over the 20 years of ownership and have enjoyed the expertise of good golf course superintendents, currently staffed by Nate Trone. While his crew is small they have been with Quail Valley for some time which helps in the long run.
Since 2004 many trees have been removed and all of the bunkers have been redone. Drainage has been a focus as well as keeping the greens healthy.
Keller admits he is not an agronomist, but knows what he wants to achieve. The team has been testing new green aerification methods to get below the typical 4 inches of treatment as a way to achieve a healthy playing surface. Keller is committed to putting resources back into the course to maintain its quality.
There has been a recent expansion at the clubhouse can be seen. Keller said the outdoor terrace and porch will allow for post-round activities and events. Its design will allow for future modification if needed.
The current upstairs bar and grill provide a 19th-hole experience as well as a tribute to the past. A photo of Charlie Keller (Scott’s grandfather) hangs on the wall. Charlie was a 5 time All Star with the NY Yankees in the late 30’s and 40’s era.
When I asked Keller what his favorite hole was he gave me a surprising answer. Not the famous 13th hole island green but the challenging par 5 15th. He says it’s such a strategic hole requiring 3 good shots that make par very rewarding. Also #6: Even though it is a short par 4, requires you to think, he said.
Kudos to the team for making Quail into a beautiful place for a round of golf and thanks to Scott for taking the time to speak with me.
Other News
Poll question for the audience:
Should the rake be left in the bunker or outside? Please send your responses to gxgolf23@gmail.com
I will need your help to make this series beneficial for all. Please send any noteworthy items to gxgolf23@gmail.com.
Hope to see you on the links!