JointBase Lewis McChord: Eagle’s Pride and Whispering Firs

By Angie Andrews, Special to Inside Golf

At JointBase Lewis McChord there is plenty of golf to go around for the public – and the military. With two golf courses Eagle’s Pride and Whispering Firs, offer a good mix and variety of holes.

Off the course, lessons are offered by golf pros Ben Senftner and John Eisentrout and both courses have driving ranges and practice areas. Adults can choose from various lesson packages. For the ladies, Whispering Firs has a very active women’s association, too.

Coming up in September, is a favorite event for those 21 and older: Nine, Wine & Dine. Hosted every few months, participants play nine holes, have a wine tasting and enjoy dinner.

Children have their own programs to partake in, such as Golf 4 Kids and Youth on Course. Members of

YOC can play for as little as $5 here at Eagle’s Pride and thousands of other locations, so even frequent military relocations won’t interrupt your kids’ affordable access.

Once you’ve developed your skills, it’s time to test them. Military-affiliated courses often host both unit and Commander’s Cup tournaments. But Clark says the Tri-Services Rainier Cup Golf Championship (held every June) “is probably the most popular tournament. Starting in the ’90s, Service Members of the Army, Air Force and Navy compete. It’s 36 holes; eighteen at each branch’s local course — Eagle’s Pride, Whispering Firs and Gallery.” ​

Lasting even longer than time-honored tournaments, Jeff believes golf “is a lifetime sport” and something to enjoy throughout all stages of one’s life. Chances are, whenever you get bit by the golf bug, you’ll only wish you started playing sooner. After all, there’s no time like the present to pick up a club and take a swing at it.

New simulator at Eagle’s Pride opens new opportunities

By Donovan Blas, Special to Inside Golf Newspaper

Joint Base Lewis-McChord’s very own, Eagle’s Pride Golf Course, has opened a new golf simulator and it has not disappointed. Despite being known for its beautiful course and scenery, management of Eagle’s Pride decided to make an investment for the course year-round.

“I, along with other members of JBLM management, discussed the idea and all thought it was a great addition for the course,” said Jeffery Clark, general manager of JBLM golf. 

Eagle’s Pride spent around $100,000 for the installation of the simulator in February 2023. However, the simulator has been very popular and has opened up new opportunities that the course couldn’t offer in the past.   With Washington weather being brutal during the winter, the simulator makes it easier for golfers to enjoy the sport even on a rainy day.

“It can get pretty wet and cold here,” said Clark. “So, with this new addition, it gives us something to offer golfers during times our course cannot hold up.”

Other than weather, the simulator also offers other ways to entertain golfers other than the course itself.  Clark said that because of the simulator they hold lessons, can tell any golfer what they want to know about their swing and allows them to virtually play any golf course they want.  But the opportunities extend past golf, offering multiple games for families and kids.

“You can play games on it like soccer and basketball,” Clark said. “It gives us a way to offer something to families that’s fun and interactive.” The simulator offers opportunities for golfers to perfect their game and for families to get out of the house and enjoy some family time.