When I took a stab at this project last fall for publication in the Kelowna Daily Courier, it was both an exciting and unenviable task.
The variety of golf courses throughout the Okanagan Valley create a golfer’s paradise. The length of the season is a boon for locals and tourists.
Indeed, I could write about the “50 Best Holes”! There are that many!
Note that all yardages provided are “from the tips”, yet each of these holes is designed with tee decks that effectively take some of the bite out of the long-distance challenges.
FORE!!
Gallagher’s Canyon, Kelowna (#1: par-4, 434 yards)
You arrive in such a peaceful setting here, an historic layout in a quiet, residential setting. After a quick warmup, you may be summoned to the roof top. Yes, the roof top! It is indeed one of the coolest shots a player will strike while enjoying golf in the Okanagan Valley. For those not immune to first-tee jitters, be advised you will likely have a captive audience on hand, as the patrons in the restaurant and on its patio can almost reach out and touch you as you tee off. Successfully execute your drive into the narrow-ish fairway and the elevated green requires a demanding, skillful approach. Welcome to Gallagher’s Canyon!