Troy Burne Golf Club – A Cut Above
By Tim Cotroneo
Troy Burne Golf Club offers one of the most pleasant Minnesota to Wisconsin commutes as you turn south on Carmichael Road from I94. Lush farm fields flank both sides of County Road F, followed by a postcard-like horse ranch. Taking in the countryside, and coral of thoroughbreds, seems to release a calming effect just before you turn right on St. Anne’s Parkway.
The storied golf legacy of St. Anne’s is your first across the pond clue regarding the aura pulsating from Troy Burne’s 240-acres. You’ve entered Wisconsin’s public golf version of Scotland and Ireland. This impression grows stronger as you navigate a winding road that’s embraced by rolling terrain, fescue grasses, and dozens of massive bunkers.
On a 72-degree Monday morning in July, Troy Burne is alive with 140 golfers primed at the steering wheels of their golf carts. Like school kids, they listen attentively as Head Golf Professional Dave Tentis welcomes his smiling guests. Many of the golfers are familiar with Troy Burne, as their charity tourney has returned to this Tom Lehman-design for five years running.
Wheels Are In Motion
After Tentis dispatched the golfers to their tee boxes, several of his co-workers bolted to their appointed stations. The Troy Burne operation is a finely tuned machine, and this fact is recognized by the course winning One of America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses for four years running.
When someone commented about how this 7,000-yard layout always looks supreme, Tentis was quick to note that Troy Burne’s Superintendent Mitch Fossey has been with the course since it opened in 1999. “Mitch tends to every facet of the course so that it presents in a way that’s a cut above. This includes our greens, fairways, tee boxes, and bunkers,” Tentis said.
In terms of sheer acreage, the Troy Burne’s bent grass footprint is one of the largest in the Midwest. The clubhouse alone is 8,000-square-feet, and the facility includes a pro shop with the latest gear, a spacious restaurant, a meeting room, a patio with a gorgeous view of the 10th and 16th holes, and a newly renovated event center.
Hudson Golf Instruction Connection
The St. Croix Valley’s residential and commercial growth has coincided with golf’s boom following COVID. Golfers returning to the game, and youngsters learning the game for the first time, flock to Troy Burne for instruction.
Troy Burne turned to a local product, Brady Minich, to take on the instruction demand. Minich is a Hudson High School grad, and he has quite a network to complement Troy Burne’s loyal following who turn out for their Men’s, Women’s, and Couples Leagues.
The Word Is Out
Since Tom Lehman competed against Steve Stricker in Troy Burne’s inaugural round in 1999, the accolades for this stadium links design have been steady. Golfers from around the world regularly inquire about a tee time at this former Nationwide Tour and USGA Qualifying site.
Golfers looking to add the Badger state to their golf bucket list will often combine Troy Burne with Erin Hills, Whistling Straits, and Sand Valley. For Twin Cities golfers looking to coordinate a Minnesota/Wisconsin trifecta, then StoneRidge and The Royal are two neighboring courses that are separated by a less than 30-minute drive.
Wisconsin Welcome
Troy Burne’s highly regarded golf experience is warmed by a team that goes out of their way to make golfers feel at home. During an era in which whole industries are burdened by lack of employees, Troy Burne’s energetic team are ever-present, whether you’re on the Par 5, 549-yard first hole, or their dramatic 467-yard, Par 4, 18th hole.
The welcome mat is rolled out after your round at the Bar & Grill patio. The combination of panoramic view, signature hamburger, and a local Spotted Cow beer is like finishing your play with a birdie putt.
The Aisling At Troy Burne
Something new or improved is always going on at Troy Burne. What’s creating major St. Croix Valley buzz this summer is The Aisling.
“Aisling” is the Scottish word for dream or vision. When new Troy Burne owner Bill Holst was handed the keys to Hudson’s finest golf course, he believed the course’s scenic surroundings would make it an ideal wedding and event destination.
Ali Clasen is Troy Burne’s Director of Events, and she likes nothing better than showing a prospective client the new all-inclusive Reception Center, lush Outdoor Ceremony Space, patio, and luxury suites. The Aisling features catering, full bar, and sweeping views of the golf course. In addition to weddings, this gleaming venue is perfect for corporate events, grad parties, galas, and reunions. What’s also great is that Troy Burne is just seven miles from the nearest Hudson hotel and 30 minutes from the MSP International Airport.
Joys of Summer
If you’re a Minnesota golfer who has yet to make a summer jaunt to your neighbor to the east, Troy Burne awaits. Dave Tentis’ congenial team looks forward to helping you enjoy a golf experience that’s a cut above.