The obvious choice for my first post would be to write about Issyk Kul. However, I need practice blogging (Feedback Welcome) and it’s Sunday of The Open Championship so: Golf in Kyrgyzstan.
Yesterday, two of my buddies (John and Blake) and I decided we had to check out the only golf course in Kyrgyzstan: Кленовый лист гольф клуб (Maple Leaf Golf Club). It is owned by a cordial Canadian named Ed, who was nice enough to introduce himself to us during our pre-round meal and give us the story of the club. To paraphrase: In the 90s, Ed was working long term in country and the idea was basically born out of being told it was impossible one joyful 4th of July night at a bar in Bishkek with some American expats. He took this to heart and has been running the course from that point on.
The course itself is 9 holes (and a driving range), however each hole has 2 tee boxes to give it an 18 hole feel. Considering it is the middle of summer in Bishkek (can hit 40 C (104 F) without anyone thinking it’s odd, dry, and sunny) and I assume the access to golf course equipment is limited and expensive, the course was in good shape thanks to the fact they are watering the course at all times. All lies in the fairway were good and the rough close to the fairways was generally decent. The greens could use some work, but again the limitations make this more than understandable. Flat out, I have played on courses that were less maintained and in much worse condition in the States many times. The course is located in the foothills providing fresh air and wonderful views of the mountains.. We only played 9 holes due to the heat, but had a wonderful time. If you love golf, I certainly would recommend.
What really makes this place is the atmosphere and friendly service. Yes, it is an expat spot where you hear a lot of first-language English speakers, but it is clearly just a spot kept going by a small, loyal community, of expats and locals, who love the game. There were also plenty of people who seemed to come out just to eat and hang out, which speaks to the quality of both the atmosphere and food.
The meal – Best Hamburger that I have had in Bishkek. It was cooked on an actual gas grill. They had a stocked bar with one beer on tap, but lots of options in bottles.. It appears they had other food options, including local favorites like shashlik. While I didn’t use the service, they advertise that they will bring beer out to you on the course if you call in. Finally, the patio is very comfortable and relaxing.
*Note: Plenty of posts won’t read like a travel blog, but if I am writing about about something I experienced, I see no reason not to pass on some details of the business.
Information:
Name: Кленовый лист гольф клуб
Location: Maybe 15-20 kilometers Southeast of Bishkek
Website: https://www.facebook.com/mapleleafgolfcoursekg
Phone: +996 559 777 766
Transportation: It seems many players drive but we took a taxi, 350-400 soms ($5-6). From an app, it does look like a marshrutka might get you close, but it would be an awfully long ride.
Cost:
9/18 holes – 1200/2000 som ($17/29)
Rentals – I think 400-500 som ($5-7) – My clubs were in very good condition.
Balls (Used) – 50 som a piece (a little under $1) – Note: Balls are valuable, if you hit it out of the course (easy to do on 1, 2, and 7), locals may try and sell your ball back to you. Some enterprising youngsters were doing this for 20 som when we were playing.
Caddie – 350 som ($5) – Caddies appeared to be popular, however I did not get one myself.
Range: I didn’t check the price, but it looks very nice.
Note: Everyone walks, it appears the club has one cart which is used by the owner.
(Note: This is an expensive outing in Bishkek, however it would be cheap golf in the States)
Restaurant:
Prices: Average
Service: Good
Food: Excellent
Recommendation: Absolutely. Food is very good, views are good, and you get to play golf.