Michigan Golf Journal July 2019

some wonderful strategic holes including the famous island green No. 15, and spectacular duo par 5 holes running parallel and finishing the front and back nines – sharing the same, expansive green complex. A few years ago, the resort embarked on its latest golf development after demand for more golf had become evident among golfers. The Sage Run course, which was also designed by Albanese, provides a different and fun golf experience. The new course opened full time on May 31 this year. Sage Run was built as part of an $8 million renovation including the addition of a full-service spa, renovation of the bingo hall and a new sports bar that would rival the nearest Buffalo Wild Wings with massive TVs and a thrilling sports-centric atmosphere – something our golf group cherishes on most evenings of our golf trips. The truth was, after the great golf combination of Sweetgrass and Sage Run, they had me at “sports bar.” We utilized the new website (www. islandresortandcasino.com) and package offerings and made the call to book our group on a three-night, four- round golf package. On this trip we decided to stay on property, but golfers could also choose the “Perfect Foursome” package to include Greywalls in nearby Marquette, and Timberstone in Iron Mountain. Flying into Escanaba through Chicago and Detroit was convenient, and it was an easy pick up at the airport. A few of us got in early and played some twilight golf on Sweetgrass, giving us a small advantage for our first round the next morning. Our first day included a 36-hole golfing bonanza on Sweetgrass in the morning and then Sage Run in the afternoon. Sweetgrass is a fun prairie links style with wide fairways and some of the most fun greens you can Continues on page 12 >> 11 July 2019 www.michigangolfjournal.com