Nestled between high mountains and vast desserts, Cortez’s unique geographical terrain renders it somewhat of a golfer’s paradise.
Taking advantage of the area’s green grass and rolling hills, two golf courses reside in Cortez, to the delight of local golfers.
While a full appreciation of Cortez golf courses requires an actual presence on their fairways, below is a synopsis of what makes this area’s golf scene special.
Conquistador Golf Course
Northeast of downtown Cortez, Conquistador Golf Club serves as the city’s only 18-hole golf course.
Featuring iconic views of mountains and several unique holes, the par-72 course is capable of testing players of all abilities.
Conquistador’s total yardage from the championship tees is 7,152 yards, while the front tees provide a total distance of 5,655 yards. Two sets of middle-distance tee locations are also available.
In addition to its challenging holes, Conquistador features a full-service pro shop, which offers cart rentals, lessons and a variety of gear. A driving range is also available at the course.
New this year at Conquistador are recently refurbished bunkers, which, according to club staff member Jeff Carr, improve the course’s aesthetics.
A true gem among small-town courses, Conquistador is worth a look.
“We have a very friendly environment,” said club staff member Dominique Johnson. “It’s easy to make memories out here.”
To learn more about Conquistador Golf Course, contact the course’s pro shop at 970-565-9208.
South Forty Golf Course
Offering golfers a second option, the South Forty Golf Course south of Cortez provides a distinct golfing experience.
Opened in 2007, the nine-hole par-three course weaves its way across gullies, through former farm fields and over a small stream.
What makes the course unique, however, is its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
“We’re just really laid-back,” said course co-owner Nancy Magness. “When somebody goes out there to hit the ball and they miss the ball or it goes two or three feet, nobody really cares.”
In large part because of to its unique layout and atmosphere, the South Forty was recently featured in the June edition of AvidGolfer magazine.
Like Conquistador, the South Forty offers golf carts and club rentals. The course can also be reserved for weddings and other special events.
“We try to be very customer-oriented,” said Maness. “We’re very-user friendly.
To learn more about the South Forty course, call 970-565-3501.
Major summer tournaments
Conquistador
June 26: Annual Youth Golf Tournament. Play begins at 7 a.m. The tournament is open to golfers 7 to 17 years old. Cost is $15. Call Conquistador at 970-565-9208.
July 4-6: Firecracker Classic
One of the area’s larger tournaments, this Fourth of July weekend tournament offers a professional division and multiflight amateur division.
July 9-10: Four Corners Junior Championship
This Junior Golf Scoreboard-ranked event is open to junior golfers who haven’t graduated from high school. The first round takes place at Conquistador Golf Course, and the second round takes place at San Juan Country Club.
Aug. 2: Ute Mountain Oil Classic
In addition to top-notch food and a friendly environment, the Ute Mountain Oil Classic features several competitive golfers who battle annually for the tournament title.
Aug. 12: Tee Cup Invitational
Hosted by the Cortez Women’s Golf Association, this all-female tournament ranks as one of the most competitive in the area.
Aug. 16-17: Pinto Bean Classic
Taking place for the 35th time this year, Cortez’s most prestigious golf tournament attracts the area’s top golfers and ranks among one of the area’s most exciting events of the year.
South Forty
Aug. 9: Pinion Project Tournament
Set to take place for the first time this year, this newly organized tournament will benefit the Cortez Pinion Project.
Aug. 23: Medicine Horse Masters
Occurring for the sixth straight year, the Medicine Horse Masters offers a laid-back environment and benefits a good cause. Tournament proceeds are donated to the Medicine Horse therapeutic riding center.
