“What’s my favourite hole at Victoria Park East? That’s a good question,” said John DeCorso, co-owner of Guelph’s family-owned and operated Victoria Park East Golf Club. “I would have to say it’s the fifth hole. It runs along the northern periphery of the property. It’s wooded on the left and bounded by a flowing creek, with a small pond in front of the tee decks. It’s a dogleg right, with a slight elevation to the tricky green; and, it's a really pretty par four, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing colour.”
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the popular local golf course, which has roots in the area dating back to 1967. That was the year Ted DeCorso built the “original” Victoria Park course (later to be known as Victoria Park West) near the intersection of Arkell Road and Victoria Road South. When the Hales farm across the road came up for sale in 1970, Ted and his brothers Carmine and Angelo purchased it to build what would become Victoria Park East.
“It was quite a challenge, and a great accomplishment,” said DeCorso, part of the second generation of the family; and along with cousin David DeCorso and sister Louise DeCorso, now oversee the operation of both Victoria Park East and Victoria Park Valley (the West course closed in 2011). “When it opened in 1974, Victoria Park East was the Guelph area’s first 18-hole public championship-length golf course. And, with the opening of a clubhouse and banquet facility in 1977, it became a popular destination for golf tournaments and parties.”
Victoria Park East was designed by golf architect Rene Muylaert, famous for planning other Ontario courses like Indian Wells, Granite Ridge and Pheasant Run. Muylaert created a layout with clever use of the “dog leg” design, incorporated a new network of ponds and streams, strategic sand trap placement, and other natural features that continue to challenge a new generation of golfers.
Over the years, the DeCorso family rode the waves of economic highs and lows, and of course, the COVID 19 pandemic. However, John said the golf industry has experienced enormous growth since the pandemic restrictions were lifted.
“Like most businesses, the pandemic hit us hard; however, when golf was allowed to proceed as one of the first activities to open-up, the sudden surge in popularity of the sport caught us by surprise! Since then, golf has remained incredibly popular. We have maintained a solid level of business by focusing on quality. One of the things we’re known for is the great conditions of our golf courses. Our chefs are top-notch. Tournaments, events and banquets are back...as strong as ever!”
Although the 50th anniversary season is winding down, there is still plenty of time to book a round of golf according to DeCorso.
“The length of the season is always contingent on the weather. Our average closing date is usually late October to mid-November. We take bookings seven days in advance. Victoria Park East and Valley have driving ranges and practice greens, as well.”
For more information, visit here. Or visit the East Course at 1096 Victoria Road South, or The Valley at 7660 Maltby Rd. East.