The History of The Links
Wildwinds Golf Club, like many other golf courses, has a name that teases the golfer into wondering what challenges and enjoyment it has to offer. Those whose curiosity has been captivated enough to make the trip have not been disappointed.
Wildwinds has a novel and interesting history. Located on one of the highest points of geography in Wellington County, this 176 acre property, with rolling topography and encompassing the headwaters of the Speed River, operated as a successful livestock and crop farm for over a century. In the last chapter of the property operating as a farm in the 1980’s and 1990’s, the entrepreneurial owner of the farm operated a custom raised beef farm as well as used the property to entertain clients of his investment company and the local Speedside community. In doing so, he had the vision and energy to privately construct 7 golf holes on the property to allow guests to experience the vista and ambiance of the property while enjoying “the grand old game”.
In true entrepreneurial spirit, 1999 saw the owner moving on to other interests and challenges, paving the way for the birth of Wildwinds Golf Club. An initial group of investors got together and where successful in purchasing the property in July of 1999. For the next 4 years, this core group worked hard and convinced other investors from the surrounding community of the beauty and potential in Wildwinds. From 1999 until late summer of 2003, Wildwinds operated as a 9-hole course, using the original 7 holes plus two temporary holes. The surrounding community strongly supported the early years and the vision of developing an 18-hole course that embraced the core characters of a great golfing experience embraced by a service driven, friendly, memorable experience.
The real story of Wildwinds Golf Club lies in the years 2001-2003. Local golf architect, Shawn Watters, laid out the unique plans and the builders molded and shaped the land. But it was the shareholders, friends, and community helpers who put their heart and sweat into making Wildwinds what it is today. Tens of thousands of rolls of sod where placed around greens and tee boxes, grass was watered, tournaments were hosted, buildings were constructed or renovated – all by those shareholders, friends and volunteers who believed in the vision of Wildwinds. In late summer of 2003, the 18-hole course as it is today was opened. Soon the word spread about this affordable, destination golf experience. One of the best accolades was from The Bogeyman in the Toronto Star, who suggested that Wildwinds was a hidden gem in a beautiful rural setting and offering “one of the most challenging par 3 holes in the region”. Every year since 2003, the friends and guests of Wildwinds Golf Club return and often bring their friends or family to enjoy what Wildwinds has to offer.
So why the name Wildwinds? Well, situated on one of the highest points of land in Wellington County it should be obvious to the most novice golfer that summer breezes will accompany you on your round. However, the unique layout of the course, with 9 holes featuring mature trees along the river and 9 holes of a Scottish links design, these breezes only add to the challenge of making the next round your best one.