COURSE CARE

At Thunder Hills Country Club, exceptional course conditions are a hallmark that sets us apart from other courses. From pristine fairways to well-maintained bunkers and true-rolling greens, every hole offers a premium golfing experience. Much credit goes to Joe Stelzer and his crew for their dedicated work in maintaining our course. However, every member also plays a role and can take pride in our course's condition.

How to Repair A Divot

Divot mix is conveniently available in every golf cart for riding members. If you're walking, you'll find tubes of divot mix at the 1st and 10th tees that can be carried or attached to your bag or push cart.

The seed in the divot mix is specifically for use on tees and fairways. Please refrain from using it to fill divots in the rough, as the grass type differs and will naturally regenerate.

For large intact divots containing soil, replace them back into the divot hole and firmly tamp them down with your foot. If divots are shattered or lack soil and roots, fill them with divot mix to match the fairway surface level.

Watch this USGA video on how to repair divots for a visual guide.

How To Repair A Ball Mark

Repairing a ball mark promptly is crucial for maintaining smooth greens. Within 15 minutes, a properly fixed ball mark can heal within an hour; delaying repair can extend this process to weeks.

To repair a ball mark, avoid lifting or prying up the depression. Instead, use a tee or repair tool to gently work the edges of the mark toward the center, smoothing out the turf surface.

If you can't locate your ball mark, stand at your ball's location and look back along its path for easier visibility.

Watch this USGA video on how to repair ball marks for a demonstration.

How To Rake A Bunker

Entering and exiting a bunker properly is essential to preserving its integrity. Always enter and exit from the low side to avoid collapsing bunker walls.

Use the flat side of the rake to level the sand surface, then lightly rake with the tines for a consistent finish. When finished, leave the rake outside the bunker with the handle aligned in the direction of play.

Watch this USGA video on how to rake a bunker for detailed instructions.