O p e n i n g S h o t
Dave Silbar
Rounds of golf played at U.S. courses climbed to another all-time high in 2025, extending one of the most sustained periods of elevated play the game has ever seen. For the sixth consecutive year, Americans played more than 500 million rounds nationally—a streak unmatched in golf history, and further evidence the post-pandemic surge has proven more durable than some initially expected. What may be most surprising, though, is that roughly 38 million golfers are playing indoors, while traditional on-course participation sits at approximately 29 million. OK, deep breath. Finally. Can you smell it? That faint, earthy scent of dormant bent grass wak- ing up under the Chicago sun. After another winter spent staring at the frost on our windows and obsessively cleaning our wedges in the basement, the wait is over. The gates are swinging open, the pins are being set, and that glorious, yet unpredictable Chicago Spring is so close you can taste it. Welcome to our Season Opener 2026 issue, a celebration of renewal—not just of the season, but of the courses we love and the people who make this game the greatest pursuit on earth. What’s inside the bag: • A Legend Reborn: We take a deep dive into the history and massive ren - ovation of Hickory Hills Golf Club. Whether you grew up playing there or haven’t visited in years, the “New Hickory” is a master class in honoring heritage while embracing modern design, and the matriarchs behind the scenes share as unique a story as the course history itself. • The Travel Bug: If the local ground is still a bit too soft for your liking, our travel features will have you reaching for your Real I.D. We’re jet-setting from the desert luxury of Palm Springs to the alpine majesty of Lake Tahoe, and finally crossing the Pond for a rugged, soulful tour of Southwest England. • Local Legends: We’ll meet Mallory Carr, the Head Golf Professional at Royal Melbourne Country Club, who is not only redefining leadership in the private club sector but among only a handful of women head profes- sionals statewide. • Chicago Proud: You won’t want to miss the incredible journey of Daria Harris as we chronicle her path from immigrating to the U.S. from Poland to becoming not only successful but among the most inspirational busi- nesswomen you’ll want to read about. • That’s a Wrap: 2026 PGA Merchandise Show. We spent a few days in Orlando this past January seeking out some of the newest and most unique products on the sprawling show floor this year. Locally-produced clean protein bars, Scandinavian-designed bag/cart systems, a classier way to mark your ball, smart golf balls, and compact launch monitors with multiple cameras and digital readout, it’s all in here.. • The Great Indoors: Rain in the forecast? No problem. Writer Todd Mrowice explores the continued boom of indoor golf simulator businesses across the Chicagoland area, proving that golf in this city is now a 365-day obsession and why more golfers are playing indoors than on traditional green grass facilities. So, whether you’re heading to the range to find that lost swing or booking a flight east, west or even overseas, we’re thrilled to be your playing partner for the season ahead. So clean off the spikes, grab a fresh sleeve of balls, and let’s get to work. We’ll see you on the fairways..
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