Grass is always greener at Hodja golf course

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Patrick R. Hyde
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Restoration efforts are under way at the Hodja Lakes Golf Course. From the building of a driving range fence to keep golf balls from crossing the roadway to an irrigation effort to expand the existing sprinklers, those hitting the links will notice numerous improvements.

"I think the golf course is in great shape now due to the efforts of Jere Dana, Hodja Lakes, greensman," said Billy Anderson, 39th Services Squadron Hodja Lakes Golf Course manager. "Jere does a remarkable job keeping the fairways, tee boxes and greens in optimum condition."

There is a constant battle to keep the golf course green and in good repair. Mother Nature causes many pitfalls from crows to intense heat that effect the over conditions of the course. Crows like to look for grubs that live in the soil of the greens and they pick and dig with their beaks to get these natural food sources. Entomology has been called out on several occasions to work with the greensman on combating the grubs that live within the moist grass around the holes.

"Intense heat is just a fact of life living in Turkey," said Mr. Anderson. "We will be expanding the current number of sprinkler heads to 1,500 to turn the brown, dried grass back into living grass to expand the available play area of the golf course."

Between holes nine and one there will be a sod farm to help with the repair of damaged greens. Other initiatives will be a beautification effort to add more shrubbery to the golf course.

Many people have asked about a fence being built to protect motorists from golf balls leaving the driving range. Another future project is to erect a driving range fence that will be finished in approximately 60 days. Holes have been dug and foundation posts are being constructed. Besides the newest restorations there are many unique features that pertain to Incirlik's golf course.

"We want you to have the nicest golf course experience while you are here," said Mr. Anderson. "Incirlik is probably one of, if not the only, golf courses in the Air Force where players do not have to call for a tee time."

Hodja Lakes has many different facets other than just playing golf. There is a restaurant above the pro shop.

"The best food on base is served at the golf course," said Mr. Anderson. Their hours of operation are Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Saturdays from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.

In addition, the pro shop is fully stocked with all the major brand names of golfing equipment for purchase.

"We have gone to great lengths to provide all the latest equipment for our golfing enthusiasts," said Mr. Anderson. "We listened to our customer's feedback and tailored their wants with our needs and have a wonderful pro shop due to the feedback."

The Hodja Lakes Golf Course is a great place to learn or hone your skills as well as sit down and enjoy lunch.

"I welcome everyone to enjoy the great game of golf," said Mr. Anderson. "My caring staff is here to help you with any questions you may have about this great game." For more information contact the Hodja Lakes Golf Course at 676-6249.