Raisin Valley Golf Course celebrates 35-year milestone

The Raisin Valley Golf Course on Comfort Road in Tecumseh was transformed in 1967 out of a gravel pit owned by Willis Porter. He started first with nine holes, now the back nine on the course.“It took two years to complete a second nine,” said co-owner Brenda Velandra, stating those are the front nine on the current course.Her parents, Arlan and Linda Kapnick bought the course in 1977, and their first year of operation was 1978. Velandra and her brothers, Keith and Dave Kapnick, started working at the golf course after their parents bought it. When Arlan and Linda decided to retire, the three siblings took over ownership.Because the golf course is landlocked, the Kapnicks immediately decided to adapt the long, open course.“When we purchased it, we planted over 1000 trees,” Velandra said. “We had to do something to make it a challenge.”Also added were sand bunkers and irrigation ponds to add to the golfing experience. Holes were changed to get optimum length. Maintenance is now the main focus for the siblings.“It’s a constant movement of keeping things up and together,” said Velandra. “We’ve always maintained a good product. I think we have a pretty nice little golf course here.”A few celebrities have enjoyed playing the course over the years including Kellen Davis and Alphonso Boone when they were playing for the Chicago Bears. “Tomas Holmstrum from the Red Wings played the course this summer,” said Velandra.Although the economy has affected Raisin Valley Golf Course in the past, things seem to be turning around. “Our 35th year has been one of our best years ever,” said Velandra. The golf season is coming to a close, with the course closing at the end of November or beginning of December depending on weather conditions. Even in the winter there is always activity year-round, especially use of Raisin Valley Golf Course banquet facilities, which is an increasing portion of the business.Season passes for 2013 are on sale and available for a discount until January. The office is open daily in the winter from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and can be reached by calling 423.2050.