Let's talk about a truly unique golfing experience that has left its mark on two Wyoming golfers, Josh Gardner and Jared Stiver. Their journey to the Landmand Golf Club in rural Nebraska is a tale of anticipation, awe, and a healthy dose of humility.
The Landmand Golf Club, a relatively new course, has quickly gained a reputation as one of the toughest tee times to secure in the U.S. With only 11,000 slots available each New Year's Eve, and those gone within an hour, it's a true golfer's lottery.
What makes this course so special, and challenging, is its sheer scale. Carved out of the treeless Loess Hills, Landmand spans nearly 600 acres, making it four times larger than the average 18-hole course. The fairways are as wide as football fields, and the bunkers are so vast they could swallow a golfer whole. But it's the greens that truly set Landmand apart. Averaging more than double the size of typical American greens, some are four to six times larger. The 17th green, at three-quarters of an acre, rivals the revered Old Course at St. Andrews in Scotland.
Gardner and Stiver, experienced golfers who have played courses around the world, were not prepared for the magnitude of Landmand. Gardner recalls feeling excited upon arrival, but by the fourth or fifth green, he realized the challenge ahead.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Landmand is its consideration of the local climate. The greens feature windsocks instead of flags, a practical solution to the notorious winds that can howl unpredictably. In fact, the course has dedicated handicaps for these winds, one for gales from the southwest and another for nor'easters.
Despite their Wyoming roots, Gardner and Stiver found the winds a formidable opponent. Gardner muses, "You'd think Wyoming boys would be good in a wind, but us Sheridan boys... not so good."
The course's enormity and the challenge it presents are not lost on golfers nationwide. The modest greens fees of $175 only add to its allure. However, for those lucky enough to secure a tee time, the reality of playing Landmand can be daunting.
Gardner and Stiver, having the privilege of four full days at Landmand, were able to fully immerse themselves in the experience. They finished the tournament in 19th place, a respectable achievement considering the field of 52 teams.
The adventure extended beyond the golf course. Owner Will Andersen, along with Golf Channel host Gary Williams and the course architects, shared the concept and history of Landmand, providing Gardner and Stiver with a deeper appreciation for the course. Stiver was particularly struck by Andersen's graciousness, remembering his name and engaging with the duo throughout their visit.
As a token of appreciation, Gardner and Stiver presented Andersen with a unique gift: a spur with hearts cut into it, crafted by renowned Sheridan craftsman Tom Balding, and a copper shot glass from their hometown Mint Bar. Andersen's reaction was one of genuine surprise and gratitude, having never received such a gift from the thousands of golfers who have played Landmand.
"We just wanted to take a piece of Wyoming," Gardner explained.
The experience left its mark on Gardner and Stiver, who, despite their initial reaction of "never again," are certain their golfing PTSD will subside. Stiver humorously adds, "There will be a day when we're ready to get hurt again."
Back home, the duo is enjoying their moment of golf envy fame, although Gardner's torn rotator cuff has temporarily sidelined him from their mission to play every Wyoming course over the next few summers.
So, what's the takeaway from this golfing adventure? As Gardner wisely advises, "Just experience it... you're not going to walk away going 'I'm a really good golfer.'"
A humbling reminder for all golfers, perhaps, that some courses are more than just a test of skill, but an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
