The Friona Golf Club will close effective Sunday evening at the conclusion of the H. K. “Pudge” Kendrick Memorial golf tournament. Club owner Dee King said his attempts to sell the country club/golf course had been unsuccessful.
The City of Friona declined to annex the course property to the city and/or take over operation of the club. Club membership has been declining over the years and Mr. King said lack of fees and revenue has forced the permanent closing of the country club.
The Kendrick tournament takes place Saturday and Sunday and the course will be closed once the tournament is concluded Sunday afternoon.
Maintaining a golf course/country club has become increasingly difficult for small towns in recent years. Golf courses in Littlefield and Dimmitt have recently closed. Mr. King estimated it would take revenue of about $10,000 per month for the club to break even. That does not include equipment repair and maintenance. Maintaining a golf course has been especially difficult during the sustained drought throughout the area.
Closing of the club and course will not affect the operation of Headquarters Restaurant which will remain open.
