Ryan Brown, Director of Golf at the esteemed Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, maintained a composed demeanor despite the impending start of a major charity event, a common occurrence at the resort known for hosting 240-260 outings annually. The resort’s two primary golf courses, The Brute and Highlands, typically attract golfers from across the Midwest and even as far as Texas.
This past May, Grand Geneva expanded its golf offerings with the introduction of Wee Nip, an 11-hole short course built on the former site of woodland and the resort’s original practice range. Far from being a mere addition, Wee Nip presents a genuine test of a golfer’s short game and provides an excellent opportunity for those unfamiliar with bentgrass greens.
“Wee Nip is a very important addition to what we already have here with Highlands and The Brute,” Brown stated, highlighting that the course ranges from 649 to 1,093 yards and possesses a distinct architectural style and atmosphere.
The course is designed to be a formidable challenge, from the 85-yard opening hole, aptly named “Blackboard,” to the demanding 110-yard uphill 11th hole, “Aloha.” This final hole features two green options, and a missed approach shot, especially towards the upper green, can easily send your ball rolling back down the slope, jeopardizing your score.
The player with the lowest score on Wee Nip each day will have their accomplishment recognized near the food truck by the 12th hole. Following your round, don’t miss the opportunity to try the signature “Wee Nip” shot.
Wee Nip was conceived by Milwaukee-based architect Matt Dusenberry, renowned for his work with Greg Norman’s design company. The greens at Wee Nip are notably large and feature significant undulation; collectively, their square footage surpasses that of the 18 greens on the Highlands course.
Unlike many resort “short courses” that utilize mats, Wee Nip allows players to tee off from the grass, with extra-short wooden tees provided on the first hole. A lightweight daybag is also available from the starter. Players can bring their own clubs or rent a limited set, typically comprising a 9-iron, pitching wedge, and putter. Wee Nip is a walking-only course, offering a manageable, albeit “wee nip” of stamina-requiring, walk.
“Wee Nip is an extension of golf and another outlet for our resort – that second round of the day or that nightcap,” Brown concluded. “It’s just fantastic.”
