Bunker Hill golf course is prepped and ready to become a leading avenue for play in Northeast Ohio
By Ken McEntee
Steve Ross always had a passion for golf, and Bunker Hill was his favorite course, explains Chad Gibson, general manager of the iconic Medina golf course and event center.
"Steve had a dream of owning his own golf course and Bunker Hill was the obvious match," Chad says.
Last year, Steve became a partner in the course, joining the Ingraham family, which has owned Bunker Hill since 1939. The result of Steve's investment was an infusion of capital that helped to finance major improvements on the courses and in the event center.
"With these improvements, which are still ongoing, coupled with the high-energy team we now have in place, we're looking forward to taking Bunker Hill to not just the next level, but to the top level of golf courses in Northeastern Ohio," Chad insists. "Starting with the rich history and tradition of the Ingraham family, led by Scott Brickley—one of the elite superintendents in the area—for nearly three decades, Bunker Hill has been an icon in the golf community. The table is set for success and we are looking forward to great golf seasons to come.”
Among the most conspicuous improvements made so far are the brand new concrete cart paths that wind throughout the course, replacing the worn-out asphalt paths.
"We've also invested in new leading edge landscaping equipment to give us a better cut on the turf, which improves our golfers' experience," Chad says. "We are proceeding with drainage improvements as well as tee and green construction on the 18th hole."
Inside, last year's conversion of Bunker Hill's restaurant into an event center has allowed Chad—a specialist in stress-free fundraisers—to host more special events for such groups as the Brunswick and Strongsville high school golf teams, local scouting organizations, school clubs and churches.
"Our new event room can hold up to 100 people, and our golf simulator room can hold 80, so by combining those two indoor venues we can accommodate 180 guests," Chad says.
The Sim Room features six of the most advanced golf simulators available. Guests not only can virtually play dozens of the world's top courses on the simulators, but they also can practice mischief—like aiming their drive at the ball retriever guy, or knocking windows out of digital buildings.
If you prefer your parties outside, you may want to book the Bunker Hill pavilion, which features a brand new 60-foot bar. The pavilion and surrounding area can accommodate up to 200 people.
"We have a patio off the Pro Shop that holds 80 people, and the upstairs deck that holds 40," Chad says. "Having multiple party areas means we can hold multiple events at the same time."
Those events might include Bunker Hill's famous clam bakes, which include clams, chowder, redskin potatoes, corn on the cob and half a chicken.
"Some people don't like clams," Chad acknowledges. "So they can go on the website we create for each event and choose to substitute a sirloin steak or a skewer of shrimp. We take care of everything from set-up to clean-up so the host can concentrate on being the host. The event website even captures names and addresses, so you can easily send out letters of thanks to your guests—and invites for next year."
That no-hassle philosophy goes for Christmas parties and business gatherings as well.
You can book your party or fundraiser by calling Chad, at 330-722-4174, or learn more by visiting BunkerHillGolf.com. You also can keep up with the latest news on Facebook @BunkerHillGolf. Bunker Hill is located at 3060 Pearl Road, at Hamilton Road, in Medina.