El Paso County Parks and Recreation announced Saturday morning that the Main Course and Delta Nine at Ascarate Golf Course will be closed for the day after a severe hailstorm caused damage to the fairways and greens.
Hail damage documented
County staff released several photographs showing the extent of the damage from Friday’s storm. Large hailstones left dents in the turf, scattered debris, and created unsafe conditions for golfers. The images, provided by the El Paso County public‑information office, illustrate why officials decided to shut the courses until conditions can be safely restored.
Pro shop and driving range stay open
Despite the closures, the Ascarate Golf Course pro shop and driving range will remain open Saturday. Visitors can still purchase equipment, rent carts, and practice their swing from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. County spokesperson John Miller said the decision allows the public to continue enjoying the facility while the courses are evaluated for repairs.
Monitoring and possible reopening
El Paso County Parks and Recreation staff will monitor the condition of the affected holes throughout the day. If the damage is deemed repairable, the courses could reopen on Sunday. “Our priority is safety,” Miller added. “We will keep the community informed as we assess the situation and work with our maintenance crews to get the courses back in playing condition as quickly as possible.”
Impact on local golfers
Regular players expressed disappointment but appreciated the county’s quick response. Local resident Maria Gonzalez, a member of the Ascarate Golf Club, said, “It’s frustrating to lose a day of play, but I’m glad the county is taking the necessary steps to fix the damage. The pro shop staying open is a big help for those of us who still want to practice or grab a quick bite.”
What’s next for Ascarate?
The county plans to conduct a thorough inspection of the fairways, greens, and drainage systems. Any needed repairs will be scheduled promptly, and updates will be posted on the El Paso County Parks and Recreation website and social‑media channels. Golfers are encouraged to check those sources for the latest information on course status.
Ascarate Golf Course, one of the region’s most popular public courses, has been a staple for families, seniors, and youth programs for decades. The temporary closure underscores the importance of maintaining safe, well‑kept recreational spaces for the community.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
