Timber Trace Golf’s new owners have strong Stockbridge links
by Joan Tucker
Clif McLellan, a former Stockbridge resident, is now the director and new owner along with other investors of the Timber Trace Golf Club in Pinckney.
Moving to the Putman Meadows community five years ago, McLellan golfed weekly at Timber Trace with friends and family. During that time, he found the course began to go downhill, which became disheartening for him and other players.
When the course went up for sale recently, McLellan, a hardworking man of multiple interests, saw a challenge and an opportunity. With his passion for golf and careful deliberation, McLellan sought advice and investors. Purchased on March 10, 2022, Timber Trace is now getting the much-needed care and update it deserves, as evidenced by a consistently full parking lot and steady stream of activity at the Pro Shop.
The “Stockbridge Connection,” as McLellan calls it, consists of exceptional employees (Mike Daily, Joey Pena, Korbin Ransom, Dwight Crow, Spencer McLellan and Phillip McLellan) who have grown up in Stockbridge and/or currently reside there.
Mike Daily, the superintendent of the greens, is key to Timber Trace’s success. Highly respected, Daily comes with more than 30 years of experience in turf management and golf course construction. Among his many talents, he specializes in course rehabilitation.
Joey Pena heads marketing and has created an ever-growing Timber Trace presence on Facebook, reaching out to surrounding communities. Pena’s creativity has multiplied viewership within weeks of the opening, and Timber Trace continues to be one of the top businesses being followed.
Since opening, McLellan has hired 27 employees. What was most surprising to him were the friendly and capable people who came to the Pro Shop looking for a job. They are excited to be a part of a team to make Timber Trace a great golfing experience.
Two professional golf pros are available for lessons. To date, 10 leagues and 16 golf outings have been scheduled. In addition, they have started a youth program for ages 6-14, which will begin in June.
McLellan and his team continue to test out ideas to improve the golf experience. Some considerations include having several music nights with a food truck available, possible small venue options for personal gatherings, and providing limited open hours during the winter.
On any given night at 6 p.m., be sure to listen for “Evening in the Mountains” as it’s piped through the loud speaker. It will surely add to your ultimate golfing experience.
