FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:  Rusty Cheuvront, 502-564-2611
                      Jim Carroll, 502-564-8110, ext. 307
 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 9, 2003) -- Gov. Paul Patton yesterday officially opened the Kentucky state park system’s newest golf course at Grayson Lake State Park.  It has been named Hidden Cove Golf Course, the governor announced.

     Rather than the traditional cutting of a ribbon, Gov. Patton and local legislators drove golf carts through a paper banner emblazoned with the name of the new championship course.  The group then led golfers to the first tee to try out the 18-hole course.

   “This is a red-letter day for Grayson Lake State Park,” Gov. Patton said.  “This new golf course will offer outstanding play for golfers of all skill levels.  Besides its value as a recreational resource, it will serve as a catalyst for economic growth for the entire region.”

   Hidden Cove is among four state park golf courses Gov. Patton is dedicating in July.  Similar ceremonies are scheduled for July 15 at Mineral Mound State Park in Eddyville, July 22 at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park near Dawson Springs, and July 29 at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park near Burkesville. 

                     In dedicatory remarks, Gov. Patton said the new courses will both enhance local recreation and spur tourism in the local communities.  He pointed out that the new Wasioto Winds course at Pine Mountain State Resort Park increased tourism spending in Bell County by $1.6 million in its first year of operation. 

                  Hidden Cove’s course designer was Ault, Clark & Associates of Kingston, Md.  The course consultant was Barge, Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon of Bowling Green, Ky. United Golf Inc. of Tulsa, Okla. was the contractor. 

   Hidden Cove is a par 72 course measuring 7, 173 yards from the back tees.  Greens fees are $25 during the week/ $30 on weekends, with cart fees totaling $11 per person.