Macktown golfers get last swings in before course closes for season

ROCKTON, Ill. (WTVO) — Macktown Golf Course in Rockton will close for the season Sunday, Oct. 19, marking the end of its 94th year in operation.

Golfers are taking advantage of mild fall weather to get in their final rounds at the historic course, which is owned by the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County.

“The weather’s been nice for it, and everybody wants to get out and get their last swings in,” Macktown starter Dale Bramer said.

Bramer added that conditions remain favorable despite being a bit soggy in places.

“The course conditions are good, a little bit damp from the rain we had,” Bramer said. “Greens are holding. They’re in good shape.”

Macktown is typically the last of the forest preserve’s three courses to open each spring and the first to close in the fall due to its dense tree cover.

“Trees are dropping their leaves and people are having a hard time finding their ball,” Bramer added.

That hasn’t stopped regulars like Max Miller and Jack Wahl, who played Monday during a day off from school.

“It’s such a nice course,” Miller said. “I’d say we come out once a week. It’s always fun. Sometimes we shoot low, but usually we are just out here to have fun and mess around.”

Wahl said the course’s layout suits his game.

“It’s an easier course. And I am not the greatest golfer in the world,” he said. “I usually shoot for nine holes low to mid 40s, so I love easy golf courses.”

Macktown will be the second area course to close for the season. Aldeen Golf Club in Rockford shut down early due to a bunker renovation project and will reopen in spring.