It was announced throughout Michigan on April 25th
that the 18-hole championship course Candlestone Golf Resort and Inn was sold to an
anonymous buyer, a course that had been in the Duthler family for more than 20 years.
The original sale of the resort fell through, making it available for local residents to step up and purchase the course and to bring new life and a
future to the local favorite. Sometimes being in the right place at the right time can be a
good thing.
“We learned that the original sale through Miedema Auctioneering, was not completed,
and it didn’t take long to consider that this would be a good fit for us and for the West
Michigan golf environment. “A true
opportunity to improve the course and keep it locally
owned,” commented Steve Leach who, with a few other investors agreed to purchase the property.
Since the 1980’s, auto dealer and passionate regular golfer Joe Duthler had owned
Candlestone Resort. After his passing in April of 2007, the family decided to offer the
course for sale, hoping for a buyer who would continue what has become a flourishing
and important part of the West Michigan geography. The 30-year-old golf course
includes a driving range, pro shop, restaurant and bar, banquet rooms and a 25-room
hotel, which was all included in the sale.
“At this point, nothing will change. Candlestone will remain a golf attraction, a nice
family place to enjoy great food while overlooking the beautiful woods surrounding the
course, as well as a comfortable place to rest your head for an evening or weekend,”
added Leach. He too, has visited the course many times over the years, playing a round
or two.
The Golf Course
Candlestone Inn Golf & Resort designed by Jerry Matthews and considered to be one of
his best designs, was opened in 1978. In the 1980’s Joe Duthler purchased the resort and
it has remained in the Duthler family until just this past week. Candlestone is also known
as one of West Michigan's toughest and most beautiful golf courses and is home of the
'West Michigan Amateur Golf Tournament'. Candlestone continues to shine among the
stars of Michigan courses, according to Don Vanderveen of Michigan Golf Magazine;
“Candlestone Inn Golf & Resort is a beacon of light for golf traditionalists in West
Michigan. It is a golf course that plays straight and honest. It is secluded from the hustle
and bustle of the city, but is easily accessible for those not wanting to go far to get away.
It sometimes plays easy. It sometimes plays difficult. It always is challenging. Three sets
of tees at Candlestone constitute distances of 6,692 yards from the blue, 6,227 from the
white and 5,546 from the red. Don’t be fooled by the yardage. This course plays longer
than it appears on the scorecard — and even longer when the wind is blowing. The 18
holes on this par-72 course provide a different look from hole to hole and is a challenging
test of golf.” Read complete story here.
The Restaurant
In 1971 a picturesque setting that was once an apple orchard inspired a group of local
businessmen to envision a restaurant and hotel with a staff committed to providing top
quality food and service to their customers. In 1972 the dream became a reality. A
beautiful setting with a glass wall overlooking the orchard was constructed along with a
25 room hotel. Plans to update the hotel, restaurant and bar will be in place shortly.
The Hotel
The 25-room Candlestone Inn is perfect for today’s business traveler, golfer, family
getaway or a romantic evening for two. In-room services include wireless Internet and
Cable TV. Mornings offer the visitor a free continental breakfast. In addition, the resort
serves as a perfect place for weddings, banquets and conferences with the 'Fireside
Room', a spacious 95 person capacity upper level banquet room. The lower level banquet
rooms can accommodate from 40 to 60 people. Overhead projector and screen, podium,
flip charts and VCR/DVD players are available. There are affordable packages that
include golf and overnight stays.
Future Plans
With the new ownership, the resort certainly is in store for exciting improvements, which
will only serve to enhance the experience of our many current golf and resort visitors.
Plus, with plans to increase its marketing exposure, the resort will now be able to
compete in Michigan attracting more business to the local economy.
Our
plans are to reach out to folks that may not have yet experienced Candlestone and all it
has to offer". (Quote by Mike Husby PGA General Manager)
When it comes to the needs of golfers, the course will only improve and be as much, if
not more, enjoyable to play in the future. This is a great opportunity for the employees
who work at the facility, the community that benefits from visitors and for all of us
throughout the state of Michigan who enjoy the recreational outlet and the competitive
golf environment a challenging course offers.
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Media and public relations activities including interviews, photos and other information
maybe attained by contacting Chris Nicholas at AAA Advertising at 616-430-2496 or via mail at 1331
Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505. Media inquiries and interviews
are encouraged.
Call Toll Free: 1-888-794-1580 ***
Copyright 2008-2009 Candlestone LLC/AAA Advertising. All rights reserved.
18-Hole Championship Golf Course
