Talk about a mood swing.
Friday night, the Kappa Alpha Order Fraternity (KA) at Florida State and The Golf Club of Summerbrooke members helped raise more than $1,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network.
Saturday morning, owner Reagan Hobbs was alerted that hole No. 11 green had been damaged by deep tire gouges from most likely a truck that was driven on the course overnight.
“Our membership is always so generous. And then to have this happen, it felt like a punch in the gut to everyone,” Hobbs said.
“It stinks and it’s so frustrating.”
Hobbs is uncertain of the extent and cost of the vandalism, though he said rebuilding a green can cost $25,000.
While insurance helps protect his club against property damage, Hobbs was devastated for members, customers, staff and his maintenance crew.
Hobbs said the course, located in northeast Tallahassee off Meridian Road, has seen increased play and membership.
He also credited the surrounding neighborhoods for supporting the club.
“We’ve gone three years without a major incident of vandalism,” Hobbs said. “We’ve had some minor issues. …. but someone gets stupid and does this, and it really hurts.”
No. 11 green is located near Summerbrooke Drive and Preservation Road, near the water.
Hobbs posted two photographs Saturday on the vandalized green on social media. He said the club was reviewing available camera footage and also asked neighborhood residents for their assistance.
Hobbs, who has owned the course for 18 years, said he has been uplifted by the positive feedback. Course superintendent Bob Cook, who previously worked at Disney World and Seminole Legacy Golf Course, also reassured Hobbs the damaged green would be repaired.
“The responses have warmed my heart and it makes me feel that we’re doing the right thing,” said Hobbs, whose wife Stacey is the course’s general manager. “Bob’s text said not to let it bother me, that they had it and would get it right.”
Reach Jim Henry at jjhenry@tallahassee.com.
English
French
German
Italian
Japanese
Spanish