By Duncan Nixon
Correspondent
Golf is having a moment at Lake Monticello.
Participation in both men’s and women’s leagues is climbing, continuing a steady upward trend that organizers say shows no signs of slowing. Over 150 players have already signed up across programs, with more expected in the coming weeks.
Paul Schmidt, president of the Gray Foxes men’s golf leagues for players 50 and older, said 87 golfers are currently enrolled, with that number likely to top 90 soon. On the women’s side, coordinator Jacque Lamb reports 77 participants across multiple leagues.
The Gray Foxes, now in their 40th year, offer both nine-hole and 18-hole play, with golfers teeing off Tuesday and Thursday mornings, respectively. The women’s programs, open to all ages, include nine- and 18-hole leagues, as well as a growing range of options designed to make the game more accessible.
Among them is the Pink Flamingoes, a beginner-friendly league that plays Wednesday afternoons and focuses on introducing new players—or welcoming back those returning to the sport. Participants aren’t required to keep score, which emphasizes a more relaxed, social approach.
The women also offer a Thursday evening nine-hole league geared toward working players, with no annual fee.
Most leagues require players to carry a handicap, though newcomers can transfer an existing one or work with the pro shop to establish a temporary estimate. Residency at Lake Monticello is not required, though non-members must pay applicable greens and cart fees.
Weekly play includes small entry fees, with top performers earning pro shop credits. The Gray Foxes operate under a single annual fee that allows participation on either or both days, while women competing in multiple leagues must pay separate fees for each.
Both programs start with a kick-off breakfast and wrap up the season with social events and awards, including a banquet for the Gray Foxes and a luncheon for the women’s leagues.
