No Snow Doesn’t Deter Arlington Lakes Golf Club’s Chilly Open

There’s no need for the snowsuits, snow boots or sleds at this year’s Arlington Lakes Golf Club’s Chilly Open, just bring you golf clubs.

“In the past they’ve had snow and ice and all the elements, like iced sand traps," said Tim Govern, golf operations supervisor and golf pro. “This year, it maybe be 40 degrees and they may play the regular holes.”

Although there might not be snow, the Chilly Open is ready to tee off at 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 19 at Arlington Lake Golf Club, 1211 South New Wilke Road. The cost is $35 for 9 or 18 holes of golf. All ages are welcome to play.

The cost includes a round of golf, and a raffle ticket that gives participants a chance to win a special prize, and other giveaways. Prizes will also be awarded to the top players in male, female, and senior divisions.

Afterward, you can warm up with hot chili. There will also be hot chocolate, coffee and beer available.

Golfers will be grouped into foursomes. Those that pre-register may “freeze” their tee time on a first-come basis. Registration will only be taken over the phone at 847-577-3030 or in person at the Arlington Lakes Golf Club.

John Robinson, Arlington Heights Park District superintendent of recreation, said the Chilly Open started a few years after the golf course opened in 1979. It was a fun gimmick but evolved into an event that draws upwards of 100 people, he said.

If there’s a lot of snow or ice, people tend to stay away, Robinson said.

The Chilly Open usually has golfers bundled up but the unseasonable warm weather this year and last year has taken the chill out of the golf outing, Govern said.

Arlington Lakes Golf Club is open throughout the winter and golfers have been taking advantage of the warmer weather and played on the course, he said.

“The golfers are loving it,” Govern said of the weather.

The club’s season usually gets going at the end of March.