I stated previously that I firmly believe that the local golf community would like to see Whispering Woods fail. But why?  How is it that a superb facility, smack dab in the middle of some of the finest residential developments in Erie County could not possible be a winner?

In order to determine the answer to these troubling questions, The Raptor thinks that an analysis of the newspaper advertisement featured above can shed some light on the subject.

First order here is to look at the play structure.  "The Woods" is being promoted as a "semi-private" course.  With green fees established at $60.00 for 18 holes, the cost of a round is definitely on the high end.  The Raptor has little additional information about the cost of a round at other 18 hole public golf courses, but I believe it is safe to state that they fall into three categories.

Peak N, Peak - Upper Course ($75.00+), Riverside Golf ($40.00+) and Gospel Hills ($25.00+)

Therefore The Woods has fit perfectly into the .local cost structure by offering a price that is on the upscale but not over the top.  The Raptor finds no fault with this development.  However, I have talked to some local golfers who are seemingly "stunned" by this cost.  If someone makes a statement that they would not pay $60.00 to play a round of golf in Erie, The Raptor wants to know the reason.  The way I see it, if the course is centrally located (it is) and will be maintained in a meticulous fashion (it will) then I'm in. If the naysayer can't get past that - I smell looser.

Now let's digest the "membership". It states "Accepting 100 Golfing Memberships - No Initiation, No Minimum, No Assessments"

This is fantastical on it's own merits.  The Raptor can see no way past this, even though every one else in Erie thinks it's a sham.  The rationale is that after the first year at $1,800.00 the price will skyrocket into uncharted territory, as if the owner(s) are going to attempt to balance the budget on the back of 100 unfortunate souls.  

The Raptor does not see this happening.  If there ever was an altruistic handling this is it.  The owner(s) are trying their best to make this course available on demand and in return, they are going to provide a top flight facility.

I am actually advocating that the owner(s) set the bar at that 100 member level and keep it there.  In this way, those of us that were willing to shed the bonds of our present golfing shackles will be rewarded with exclusive access at a reasonable price.

No Minimum and No Assessments - this is unbelievable.  This has got to be sticking in the craw of any present operator of a local private club.  It seems that assessments are the rule of the day all over Erie County.  And how about the roster numbers - Lake View - less than 275 members, Lawrence Park - less than 350 members and Lake Shore - less than 300 members. - this is staggering!

"Walking Is An Integral Part Of The Game Of Golf

The ad states that cart rental will be required until 4:00 daily.  This one codicil, has thoroughly frustrated and depressed a great many potential joiners, as if by walking they will somehow get exercise or stay in touch with that integral part of the game.  If you could see me typing these words you would note the smile on my face.  This issue is a laugher.  Walking WAS an integral part of the game, just like gutta percha balls and mashie clubs with hickory shafts. Please.  Get on the damn cart and shut your pie alamode hole!  Golf Carts have become an integral part of the game, especially at a course like "The Woods" where there are some lengthy distances between green and tee and some major league hills as well.  Trying to grind out an 18 hole sprint at 5:30 in the evening is frivolous.  If you need to get some exercise - join the YMCA.  If you need to walk, head on down to the Peninsula.  

What Are Some Of The Reasons That The Woods Will Bust

1. "It going to take 4 1/2 to 5 hours to play 18 holes" - Oh No! - what will The Raptor do! - Oh Jeez, 4 1/2 hours, it's not like I haven't wasted time on a golf course before!

2." The owner(s) will cave and let anyone in next year who wants to jump on the band wagon." - I sure hope not, but, if that's the case - Oh No! - that's gonna really alter the dynamic of the place! - tee times will dry up! Outings will be scheduled every day! It's a rip-off!

3. "The place is a dump, there is no driving range, no short game range and no clubhouse." Oh No! - that's awful! What am I going to do?! I can't practice, my game is heading for the dumpster! Oh No! - no food after my round! - It's not like I am not fat enough!

4. "After the first two years, the membership is going to go sky high, you will be paying as much as it costs to play anywhere else" - Of No! that's bad! I am seeing stars! It's a body blow!  Where am I going to get $3,000.00 to play golf at a public course! - Naturally the dues at LVCC will be about $5,000.00 by then, but it is in fact a much better golf course!

Will The Woods be a bust - well that's for you to decide.  The Raptor has made the move and he is extremely happy about it.  

Where The Ad Missed The Mark

For starters, the ad could have featured a map of the location or an address.  In addition, the owner(s) have yet to put out a website.  This would be a tremendous marketing tool.  Also, perhaps a mention of an open house or free riding tour or even a inauguration day to benefit charity or something like that.