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History

In the beginning, the pioneer spirit of a group of dedicated Founders, representing a broad cross section of the community, came together to launch the Valley Hi Concept.

At Valley Hi, each member would enjoy an equal voice, and equal interest and participate in all advantages of an elite Country Club. Each member would have access to an uncrowded golf course and year round social activities that included the whole family. Valley Hi was to be a showplace for entertaining guests, friends, and family. With the family atmosphere paramount in the founding concept, each member would experience an immediate sense of belonging.

After an arduous and painstaking search for a site and in consultation with top pros, course designers and architects, the Founders planned for a complete country club. The facility would encompass a full 18-hole championship course, ultra-modern clubhouse with related service. The first golf ball hit on the golf course was played by President, Wendell Pond, on June 4, 1961.

Golf Course Ribbon Cutting,
June 4, 1961, Wendell Pond, President
Billy Bell - G.C. Architect

To this end, the founders retained the services of William “Billy” Francis Bell. Mr Bell was a familiar name to golfers, having designed nearly 50 layouts. He was former president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects. He designed the courses at the Bermuda Dunes, Tamarisk, in Palm Springs, Torrey Pines near La Jolla, Apple Valley, Hidden Valley near Reno, Emerald Valley at Lake Tahoe, Northridge Country Club in Sacramento and many other municipal links.

Ed Loustalot - Club's First Golf Professional

Valley Hi has undergone many changes during its lifetime. By far the most ambitious has been the recent modernization of the clubhouse together with the renovation of two new golf holes on 16 and 17. Throughout its history its original concept of an uncrowded golf course, social activities, and pleasant environment for entertaining guests, friends and family continues to prevail. To this day, that family atmosphere remains the hallmark of membership to Valley Hi Country Club.

Richard Smith - First Manager