That was quite a mood swing, to say the least.
The Kappa Alpha Order Fraternity (KA) at Florida State University and members of The Golf Club of Summerbrooke raised more than $1,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network on Friday night.
Owner Reagan Hobbs was notified on Saturday morning that the green on hole No. 11 had been damaged by severe tire gouges from a truck that had been parked on the course overnight.
“Our members are always extremely generous with their contributions. Then this happened, and it hit everyone like a punch in the gut,” Hobbs recalled.
“It stinks, and it’s quite aggravating.”
Hobbs is unsure of the amount and cost of the vandalism, however he did say that a green can cost up to $25,000 to rebuild.
While insurance protects his club from property damage, Hobbs’ members, customers, staff, and maintenance crew were distraught.
According to Hobbs, the course, which is located off Meridian Road in northeast Tallahassee, has experienced an increase in play and membership.
He also praised the club’s supporters in the nearby neighborhoods.
“We haven’t had a serious vandalism incident in three years,” Hobbs added. “We’ve had a couple of minor snafus. But someone does something stupid, and it hurts a lot.”
The No. 11 green sits near the lake, along Summerbrooke Drive and Preservation Road.
Hobbs shared two photos of the vandalized green on social media on Saturday. He stated that the club was analyzing available camera footage and had also requested assistance from residents in the area.
Hobbs, who has owned the course for 18 years, said the favorable feedback has encouraged him. Hobbs was also told that the damaged green will be rebuilt by course superintendent Bob Cook, who formerly worked at Disney World and Seminole Legacy Golf Course.
“The reactions have warmed my heart and made me feel like we’re doing the right thing,” said Hobbs, whose wife, Stacey, is the general manager of the course. “Bob’s text told me not to worry about it; they had it and will fix it.”
