Cranbrook, British Columbia
Shadow Mountain is open for golf in July
Rob Anderson, head pro at Shadow Mountain talks to GolfWest
Shadow Mountain golf course has a comfortable feel. From its website that announces that the bluebirds have moved into the nesting boxes to the approachable golf pro Rob Anderson, Shadow Mountain is the kind of place that boasts unpretentious comfort.
The place to be: Stunning vistas at the 15th hole at Shadow Mountain. Click here to view Shadow Mountain Gallery.—photo courtesy of Shadow Mountain
Head pro Rob Anderson spoke with GolfWest about the soon-to-be-open course.
What makes Shadow Mountain distinct as a course?
Shadow Mountain has many features that will separate it from other courses in the area and the province: The setting is fantastic and along with our neighbours, has amazing views of the Rockies and Fisher Peak, the source of the course’s name. The layout of the course, the use of the land and the elevations are smart: each hole blends extremely well with nature. The setback of home sites is very generous and will not disrupt play. And the most distinct aspect is the people: Gary (Barrett), Shirley (Organ) and Fred (Mehl) are very genuine locals and have created a very friendly and caring atmosphere to the facility. Everyone that I have met so far has been very welcoming.
What decisions were made that have allowed Shadow Mountain to continue to develop even during this economic slowdown?
When the owners started work on the project nearly four years ago, no one could have envisioned the times we are in now. What has enabled Shadow Mountain to keep moving forward is some fortunate geography, sound financial planning and tenacity. The east side of the property has an abundance of sand and gravel so significant savings were realized as a result of the availability of material. From a dollars and cents standpoint, investment both locally and from abroad has meant avoiding loans from the bank. In addition, the hurdles do not seem to be too high. Challenges that face a project of this type and size have been worked through and the green light to begin services to the first phases of development is within sight.
What can golfers expect to experience in July?
An extremely good layout with multiple sets of tees for all levels of players to enjoy. Simple and friendly service without attitude. An incredible setting to play and maybe even to call home!
Tell us about your background and experience as a golf pro.
I turned professional in the fall of 1993 and competed on the Canadian Tour from 1994 to 1997, including some time in the southwestern U.S. on a few mini mini-tours. My wife Shellan and I settled back in Kelowna permanently in the fall of 1997 and I began work at The Harvest Golf Club in the spring of 1998. In the fall of 1999, I became a class A member of the CPGA and the next spring became the golf shop manager in 2000. I became the head professional at The Harvest in 2002 and carried those duties through 2007. In 2008, although still technically the head pro, I switched gears a bit and took on the duties of director of instruction, which takes us to becoming the director of golf/general manager at Shadow Mountain.
What is your favourite hole at Shadow Mountain?
It’s a toss-up! At this point, Number 7 and 13 are topping the list visually. When I actually get to play the course that may change.
Please add anything else that you would like GolfWest readers to know.
Green fee pricing for 2009 will include cart, range balls and taxes, so what you see is what you pay. We are priced very competitively so there is an opportunity for everyone to come and experience Shadow Mountain this season.
Our practice facility will be open with the course in July and features multiple target greens and a great short game area. We will be offering a small schedule of learning programs this summer, so check the website this spring for detailed information.