Buhl Park, located in Sharon, Pennsylvania, is a unique 9-hole golf course where players can enjoy a round for free. The course was built in 1914 by industrialist Frank H. Buhl, who wanted to provide a place for the community to enjoy and play golf without any cost. This generosity has allowed generations of golfers, including PGA professionals Tom Roskos and Adam Scott, to hone their skills on the course without financial barriers. The park also features hiking trails, an 11-acre lake, and other amenities for visitors to enjoy.
In recent years, Buhl Park has faced challenges due to limited funding from the endowment left by the Buhls. Course conditions began to decline, and the future of the course was in jeopardy. However, Roskos and Scott recognized the need for revenue and spearheaded fundraising efforts to improve the course’s facilities and maintenance. With the support of private donations and grants, they were able to build a small pro shop, simulator bays, and a clubhouse with high-tech training tools.
The efforts of Roskos and Scott have paid off, with Buhl Park now close to breaking even financially. By offering additional services such as clinics, simulator rentals, and merchandise sales, the course is on track to potentially turn a profit in the future. The improved maintenance and facilities have attracted more golfers to the course, with the range, simulators, and putting green being popular amenities for players of all skill levels.
One regular player at Buhl Park, George Mesaros, appreciates the value of the course as a military veteran who plays four times a week. The course’s accessibility and quality make it a favorite destination for local golfers like Mesaros who enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and well-maintained fairways and greens. The addition of simulators, clinics, and a clubhouse has enhanced the overall experience for players, making Buhl Park a sustainable and thriving community asset.
To learn more about Buhl Park and support its ongoing efforts, visitors can visit the park’s website at buhlpark.org. The dedication of Roskos and Scott to preserving the legacy of the course and ensuring its sustainability for future generations is evident in the improvements made to the facilities and the positive impact on the local golfing community. With continued support from donors and patrons, Buhl Park will continue to provide a unique and valuable golfing experience for all who visit.
