Nestled among the pines and Spanish Oaks of the Myers Park District, Capital City Country Club, a historic golf club with over 100 years of rich tradition, was recently struck by fierce storms, resulting in significant damage to the property. The club’s general manager, Evan Neihaus, arrived at the club and was left astounded by the extent of the destruction caused by the tornadoes that tore through the area early Friday morning.
Despite facing obstacles on his way to the club due to debris and fallen trees, Neihaus managed to reach the site after a challenging journey. However, even he was unprepared for the magnitude of the devastation. He expressed his disbelief, saying, “How bad you may think it was, it was worse. The damage was incredible.”
The storm, confirmed by the National Weather Service in Tallahassee as two EF-2 tornadoes with winds ranging between 111 and 135 mph, also brought about straight-line winds of around 100 mph. The damage was not restricted to the golf course itself but affected several other areas within the premises. Along the course, hundreds of trees were uprooted, snapped, or shredded by the powerful winds. Additionally, the clubhouse, pro shop, Olympic-sized swimming pool, and five tennis courts suffered varying degrees of damage.
The aftermath of the storms left many members and residents heartbroken. Jay Revell, a member of Capital City Country Club, expressed his profound sadness, reflecting on the impact of the devastation. He said, “It really hurts to see a place you love get so damaged. It was a scary morning for our family and many others in Tallahassee. After we surveyed our home and the neighborhood, we went to see how the club faired. It was stunning to see the wind damage.”
On the day of the storms, several golf course maintenance staff members were already present on the course. Two mowers had arrived at 4:30 a.m., with others joining at 5:30 a.m. Tragically, a tournament organized by Miller’s Tree Service – an ironic twist of fate – was scheduled to take place at the club later that afternoon. Recognizing the approaching severe weather, management alerted the staff to retreat to the maintenance shop for safety.
Cameron Dowden, who was on hole No. 13 of the course at the time, recounted the scene as the storm unleashed its fury. He mentioned that the rain started innocently enough but quickly escalated into a more treacherous situation. The wind intensified rapidly, and the sound of trees snapping added to the fear of those seeking shelter. Dowden, along with three co-workers, found refuge in his small truck, wedged tightly together as the storm raged on.
Capital City Country Club has earned its reputation as one of the premier golf courses in Tallahassee and the state of Florida. In Golfweek’s rankings for 2022, it was recognized as the best golf course in Tallahassee and the 13th-best course across the entire state. The course spans 18 holes, measuring 6,502 yards, and boasts a challenging layout and varying elevations. As a semi-private club, it attracts dedicated golfers, many of whom have been loyal members for decades.
In addition to its exceptional golfing facilities, the club offers various amenities, including two spacious banquet rooms, a driving range, practice putting greens, a fitness center, and a well-stocked Pro Shop. The closure of Capital City Country Club in the wake of the storm has deeply affected its members, who eagerly await its eventual reopening. Club President Blake Hayward, in an email to the membership, reassured everyone that every effort will be made to restore and reopen the club as soon as possible.
Reflecting on the club’s significance, member Jim Marshall, a former golfer from Michigan, commended the remarkable layout and the meticulous efforts of the greens superintendent in maintaining the course in excellent condition, particularly the greens. Marshall emphasized the course’s historical importance and the enduring allure it holds for avid golfers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the status of the Capital City Country Club following the storms?
Capital City Country Club is closed indefinitely as it undergoes repairs and restoration in the aftermath of the severe storms.
How was the club affected by the storms?
The storms caused significant damage to many areas of the club, including the golf course, clubhouse, pro shop, Olympic-sized swimming pool, and tennis courts. Additionally, hundreds of trees were uprooted or damaged along the course.
What are some of the amenities offered by Capital City Country Club?
Apart from its renowned golf course, the club features two spacious banquet rooms, a driving range, practice putting greens, a fitness center, and a fully equipped Pro Shop.
Has the club received any accolades for its golf course?
Yes, Golfweek ranked Capital City Country Club as the best golf course in Tallahassee and the 13th-best course in the state of Florida in 2021. It is highly regarded for its challenging layout and impressive elevation changes.
When can members expect the club to reopen?
While a specific reopening date has not yet been determined, Club President Blake Hayward has assured members that extensive efforts are underway to repair and restore the club as quickly as possible, allowing for its eventual reopening.
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