EAST RIVER 9 TO OPEN IN 2022!

Southern Texas PGA • June 22, 2021

NEW PUBLIC 9-HOLE, PAR 3 GOLF COURSE AND DRIVING RANGE TO DEBUT WITH

RESTAURANT AND PATIO BAR IN MIDWAY’S EAST RIVER DEVELOPMENT

Together, ‘East River 9’ and ‘Riverhouse Houston’ will offer a casual, family-friendly outdoor experience

overlooking Buffalo Bayou and downtown Houston

 

(HOUSTON, TX) – Houston-based Midway, a privately owned, fully integrated real estate investment and development firm, today announced that East River 9, a public, nine-hole, par-three golf course, and Riverhouse Houston, a family-friendly restaurant and patio bar, will open on the site of its 150-acre East River development in the Historic Fifth Ward.


“Our objective is to create an inviting and recreational environment for the local community as well as all Houstonians,” stated Clayton Freels, founding partner of the concepts. “East River 9 will grow the game by filling a void in the market between the driving range and the full 18-hole experience. It also brings a fun, community-oriented activation that will welcome neighboring residents to a site that has been closed to the public for over 75 years.” 

 

PGA REACH Southern Texas, the charitable foundation of the Southern Texas PGA, is working with East River 9 to positively impact the lives of youth, active and retired military and individuals of diverse backgrounds.

 

“PGA REACH Southern Texas is excited to have a new presence in Houston’s inner city,” said Thomas Hutton, Executive Director for the Southern Texas PGA. “We look forward to working with East River 9 to host programs that will welcome juniors, veterans and neighboring residents to the game of golf. PGA REACH Southern Texas’ mission is to impact lives through golf and this facility will do just that!”   

 

Well-positioned within a mile of downtown Houston and situated above the 500-year flood plain on the northern bank of Buffalo Bayou, East River 9 will be the only public, nine-hole, par-three golf course inside the 610 Loop, complete with stadium lights for evening play. The links-style short course will be composed of holes that range from 80 – 150 yards; a natural grass, 300-yard driving range with a downtown skyline backdrop; a 12,000 square-foot social putting green; and a 1,000 square-foot pro shop which will feature merchandise, rental clubs, and refreshments. Two staggered tee boxes play into all nine greens and provide players with the ability to play two unique nine-hole rounds. 


Phillis Wheatley High School in the Historic Fifth Ward is also working with East River 9 to ensure that it will create an inclusive environment for students and their families. Wheatley is discussing the addition of a golf team to its athletic program once the facilities are complete.

 

Principal Joseph Williams shared, “I am truly excited about the development of the golf course and restaurant at East River which will afford our scholars and families a space for recreation and will highlight our Fifth Ward Community to Greater Houston! Wheatley’s partnership with these businesses will truly support our efforts around career readiness and offer opportunities for internships and employment.”

 

Bianca Dugas, Fifth Ward resident and Associate Principal at Wheatley added, “I am elated about the employment opportunities for Fifth Ward community members and the addition of a family-friendly establishment in the neighborhood. The wealth of opportunities that East River 9 will bring will surely improve the community’s economy.”  

 

Riverhouse Houston, a new concept with DKC Group, will anchor the golf course and will serve a scratch kitchen menu coupled with a well-rounded beer, wine, and spirits selection. The family-friendly restaurant and patio bar will be in a repurposed industrial structure that overlooks the golf course, Buffalo Bayou, and downtown skyline. In the evening, patrons will enjoy frequent live music and incredible sunset views on Riverhouse’s expansive terrace which will feature a kids playscape, outdoor games and fire pits. The building’s refined-industrial design will seamlessly meld with the aesthetic of the greater East River development. The laid-back establishment was designed to host corporate, social, and charity events and can accommodate over 1,000 people and park over 300 cars.

 

“We are excited to create a welcoming and natural atmosphere that will serve Houston for years to come,” said Don Cristopher, project partner and founder of DKC Group Companies. “Riverhouse will offer much more than a traditional clubhouse and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.”

 

Once open for business, the project will have numerous, full-time employment opportunities for neighboring residents. East River 9 and Riverhouse will begin sharing these positions with the Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation this fall. Construction commenced in May 2021, and the entire golf and restaurant offering is on schedule to open by the first quarter of 2022.

 

East River 9 and Riverhouse Houston have assembled an accomplished project team composed of: Smelek Design, golf and landscape architect; VM Golf, golf general contractor; Sterling Golf, golf operator; Phil Schawe, Riverhouse design architect; MaRS, Riverhouse interior design; Trinity Constructors, Riverhouse general contractor; and DKC Group, Riverhouse restaurant operator.


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ABOUT EAST RIVER

Currently in its pre-construction phase, East River’s 150 acres of carefully designed, multi-phase, mixed-use development will transform the city’s waterfront east of downtown into a new economic center. Designed to grow and evolve through multiple phases, East River is ideally positioned to serve a wide range of residents and a spectrum of housing price points, innovative and globally competitive companies, cutting-edge retail and restaurant concepts, and a host of institutional, educational and recreational opportunities. The project’s early phases of development set the tone for a world-class collection of districts by focusing on connecting Houston’s urban fabric to central green spaces, active transportation, upgraded infrastructure and an impressive mile of waterfront along Buffalo Bayou. To stay up-to-date on East River’s progress, follow along on Facebook @EastRiverHouston, Twitter @EastRiverHou and Instagram @EastRiverHouston. 

 

ABOUT MIDWAY

Houston-based Midway is a privately owned, fully integrated real estate investment and

development firm that has provided the highest level of quality, service and value to clients and investors for almost 50 years. Midway’s portfolio of projects completed and/or underway consists of more than 45 million square feet of properties ranges from mixed-use destinations to office, industrial facilities, and master-planned residential communities. Midway continues to develop projects of distinction, aesthetic relevance and enduring value for investors, clients, and the people who live, work, and thrive in the environment they create.

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You're Invited: 2025 STPGA Merchandise Suite Show - Free to Attend!

By Southern Texas PGA • June 5, 2025
Discover. Connect. Shop Smart at the STPGA Merchandise Suite Show The Southern Texas PGA invites you to the 2025 STPGA Merchandise Suite Show, a free-to-attend, suite-style buying event tailored for vendors, buyers, and PGA of America Members in the Houston-Metro area. Dates: Monday, August 18 – Wednesday, August 20 Location: Embassy Suites The Woodlands 1855 Hughes Landing Blvd, The Woodlands, TX 77380 Join us in a relaxed, appointment-friendly environment to connect with over 40 vendors representing more than 100 brands! Meet one-on-one with top vendors Preview new product lines Take advantage of show specials Network with industry peers in the Houston-Metro area Whether you’re looking to place orders, make new connections, or explore fresh merchandise for your facility, this is the must-attend event of the season. For inquiries or to reserve your space, please contact: Andrew Gridley - agridley@pgahq.com Judy Gee - jgee@pgahq.com This event is free to attend for PGA Members & Associates, Golf Industry Professionals, and Golf Facility Buyers – click below for more information & to register: REGISTER HERE LEARN MORE & VIEW THE FULL LIST OF VENDORS We look forward to welcoming you to The Woodlands this August!

GOLFCREST COUNTRY CLUB TRIUMPHANTLY HOSTS THE PRO-JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP!

By Southern Texas PGA • June 2, 2025
PEARLAND, TEXAS (June 2, 2025) - The 2025 Pro-Junior Championship brought together PGA of America Golf Professionals and junior golfers from across the Southern Texas Section for a memorable day of team golf, mentorship, and fun at Golfcrest Country Club. This year’s title went to the hometown team from Golfcrest Country Club, led by Rene Rangel, PGA, alongside juniors Clark Rangel, Charlie Hoyt, and Kingston Harper. The foursome delivered a strong performance, combining great chemistry and steady play to take home the championship.  “It was a huge amount of fun, and we won this event in the past when these guys were a lot younger,” said Rene Rangel, PGA. “So, it was cool to see how much they have improved and just an all-around great team with a fun dynamic.” “I can’t appreciate Rene enough for getting me out here and involved in these tournaments,” said Charlie Hoyt. “It is always an incredible time, and I love playing with these guys.” “We were ham and egging it a lot today,” added Clark Rangel. “Our putts were falling, but my dad had the most playable balls off the tee. All around, we just played well.” “I ran through three gloves today,” laughed Kingston Harper. “Thankfully, I prepared to sweat—I almost brought a fourth—but it was a lot of fun out there.” The Southern Texas PGA extends its heartfelt thanks to Rene Rangel, PGA, General Manager, and Chase Smith, PGA, Director of Golf at Golfcrest Country Club, for their outstanding hospitality and commitment to growing the game. Their support made this year’s event especially meaningful.

Wylie and Sitton Crowned Champions at the Omega Transactions Memorial Championship!

By Southern Texas PGA • May 20, 2025
HOUSTON, TX (May 20, 2025) – The 2025 Omega Transactions Memorial Championship concluded at Westwood Golf Club in Houston, Texas, where 134 PGA of America Members and Associates competed over two days of elite play in both the Open and Senior Divisions. In the Open Division, Austin Wylie, Assistant Professional at Mac Wylie Golf Center, delivered back-to-back rounds of 68-68—136 (-8) to capture the championship. Wylie’s steady, composed play kept him at the top of the leaderboard throughout both rounds as he edged out a competitive field to secure the win. "I wasn't hitting it well with my driver, but my short game was really good today. I was able to put myself close and give myself good opportunities to knock in some putts," said Wylie, "it felt nice to have the comfort of only needing to two-putt rather than going through an intense five-hole playoff like my last win. Our events are stressful enough, and the fields are so competitive that nothing is easy around here." The Senior Division saw a thrilling finish, with a three-way playoff between Billy Sitton, PGA, Mike Kullberg, PGA, and Steve Variato, PGA, after they finished tied at the top. The playoff was contested on Hole 18, where Sitton emerged victorious after just one extra hole, sealing the title with an aggressive approach shot that paid off. “I got out to a bad start and was just trying to keep myself hanging in there, and I got into the playoff,” said Sitton. “I had an aggressive mindset, especially with my second shot which I got a little lucky on and landed it in a perfect spot. This win is amazing for me because I plan my travel schedule around the Levy Cup Matches and competing on that team every year. I’ve made it every year since its inception outside of one due to back surgery—but that’s how I start my January: planning out and competing to be on the Levy Cup Team.” Congratulations to all who competed in this year’s event, and special thanks to Westwood Golf Club for hosting another memorable championship. Thank you to our title partner, Omega Transactions, and our presenting partners, Yamaha, Flyway Hats, Sterling Cut Glass, GT Golf Supplies, ahead, TPC Industrial, Perry Weather, and Blue Moon. This event would not be possible without their support! To view the final results, click here . To view the photo gallery, click here .

Southern Texas PGA Makes Inaugural Appearance at PGA HOPE Secretary's Cup!

By Southern Texas PGA • May 12, 2025
Veterans Representing the Section Set to Compete in Charlotte, NC, on May 12 HOUSTON, TX (May 12, 2025) – The Southern Texas PGA Section is proud to have our first-ever team appearance at the PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup, which is taking place today in Charlotte, North Carolina. The annual event, held in conjunction with PGA Championship Week, highlighted PGA REACH’s flagship military program, PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere). This year’s Southern Texas team is being led by PGA of America Member and U.S. Air Force Veteran Jamie Smith , who currently serves as a PGA HOPE instructor. Smith brings his golf expertise and unique ability to relate to fellow Veterans thanks to his retired military status. "PGA HOPE puts veterans first. It has reignited my passion for teaching, and it feels like a fresh start. Being Air Force retired, I can relate to my players, and the bonds that are formed through PGA HOPE are incredible. I would strongly recommend any veteran to reach out and find help within their community." - Jamie Smith, PGA Joining Smith on the Secretary’s Cup roster were four U.S. military Veterans: David Cano , U.S. Marine Corps Raimond Booker , U.S. Navy Bradleigh Lane , U.S. Army Darren Cormier , U.S. Air Force The Secretary’s Cup is designed to celebrate the positive impact of PGA HOPE and the healing power of golf. Teams from across the country came together not only to compete but to share stories, build camaraderie, and grow the game among the Veteran and Active Duty community. The Southern Texas PGA is honored to have had these individuals represent the Section on a National Stage. Follow along with the live leaderboard by clicking here and typing " PGASECCUP25 " into the GGID Box. For more information on how to get involved in PGA HOPE, click here .

Texas Golf Drives $14.2 Billion Economic Impact and 107,000 Jobs for the State

By Southern Texas PGA • May 6, 2025
New report reveals golf’s rising role in the Texas econ omy, workforce, and lasting value for communities throughout the state of Texas. HOUSTON, TX (May 6, 2025) – In partnership with our Allied Organizations, the Southern Texas PGA is excited to announce that an economic impact study was released today showing the impact of golf in the state. This study showed that the Texas golf industry is fueling major economic growth with $14.2 billion in total economic output, supporting more than 107,000 jobs, and labor income of nearly $4.8 billion for the state. In recognition of the industry’s statewide importance, Texas legislative leaders have issued a proclamation declaring today Texas Golf Day, honoring golf’s contributions to the economy, communities, and quality of life across the Lone Star State. The study, conducted by Radius Sports Group and commissioned by the Texas Alliance of Recreational Organizations (TARO), found the golf industry produced a direct impact of $7.7 billion and contributed nearly $1 billion in state and local taxes, reinforcing its vital role in Texas’s fiscal health and economic development. "Golf in Texas delivers far more than rounds played - it drives jobs, tourism, and community impact," said Ken Goryzcki, president of TARO. "Texas supported close to $1.5 billion in golf tourism and generated $300 million from major tournaments and associations. We’re proud to see the industry play a vital role in the state’s economic engine." Texas ranks among the top five states nationally in total number of golf courses, with 821 courses and 706 facilities. Nearly 70% are open to the public, and 38% of public facilities are municipally operated, well above the national average. These city-run courses provide affordable access to golf for Texans of all ages and income levels. The state ranks second nationally for on-course golf participation, with 1.89 million golfers in 2023 - a figure that could fill AT&T Stadium 23 times. "The Texas golf industry is committed to fostering economic growth and vitality for our great state," said Gib Lewis, former Texas Speaker of the House and TARO Board member. "The industry’s focus on accessibility, community, and sustainability ensures that golf continues to be a sport for all Texans, contributing positively to our economy and our shared quality of life. I’m delighted our legislators are recognizing these impacts today, on Texas Golf Day." The study shows that more than $362 million was raised for Texas charities in 2023, with over 15,000 events statewide. Youth development and veteran support are also key pillars: nearly 90% of courses offer junior golf programs, more than a third support the military and Veterans through initiatives like PGA HOPE, and the state is the first to open an Urban Golf Park - a free and inclusive public facility at PGA Frisco, designed to welcome families, juniors, and beginners. This innovative model reflects the state’s commitment to making golf accessible to all Texans. The report also highlights golf’s environmental contributions through preserving over 150,000 acres of green space that supports wildlife habitats, improves air quality, promotes urban cooling, and aids in flood control. Sustainability practices are widespread, with 72% of courses implementing at least three water conservation measures and 51% irrigating with recycled water. A growing number also embrace renewable energy, electric golf carts, and composting programs. The Texas golf economy has experienced a remarkable 74% growth in total economic impact since 2012 and has added over 26,700 new jobs. As Texas continues to lead in population and economic expansion, the golf industry is poised to remain a key contributor to the state’s future. The report was produced in collaboration with the Texas Golf Association, the Northern and Southern Texas PGA Sections, the Texas Lone Star Chapter of the Club Management Association of America, the Texas Golf Hall of Fame, and the Lone Star Golf Course Superintendents Association. Access the full Texas Golf Economic Impact Report at: https://www.texasgolfimpact.org About Texas Alliance of Recreational Organizations Texas Alliance of Recreational Organizations (TARO) is a nonprofit advocacy organization dedicated to representing recreational clubs and organizations, including golf, city clubs, sailing, aquatics, and racquet clubs, along with other member-based recreational groups. Learn more at: http://www.txaro.org/ About Radius Sports Group Radius Sports Group is a sustainability consulting firm focused on connecting sustainability and sports. Based in Reno, Nevada, the firm drives economic, environmental, and community impacts through strategic partnerships with sports franchises, facilities, golf courses, suppliers, and governing bodies. Learn more at: https://www.radiussportsgroup.com/ To view the photo gallery, please click here!

Droemer and Gates are Heading to Quail Hollow!

By Southern Texas PGA • May 1, 2025
Jesse Droemer, PGA and Bobby Gates, PGA Qualify for the 2025 PGA Championship First Community STPGA Team Shines at PGA Professional Championship SPRING, TEXAS (May 1, 2025) – At the 2025 Southern Texas PGA (STPGA) Annual Meeting, the Section announced an exciting expansion of its partnership with First Community, unveiling the First Community STPGA Team. This group of nine PGA Members earned their spots through outstanding play at the 2024 STPGA Section Championship and went on to represent the Section at the PGA Professional Championship held this past week at PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, Florida. The First Community STPGA Team made a strong showing, with Jared Jones, Jesse Droemer, JJ Wood, and Bobby Gates all making both cuts during the event that featured 312 PGA Professionals from across the country. Notably, Droemer and Gates secured spots in the prestigious 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow after placing in the Top 20 of the event. Droemer, who came in second place overall, was solid all week long, even with battling some back issues. He started off really strong with a 4-under 68 on Day 1 when he played the Wanamaker Course and backed it up with a 3-under 68 on the Ryder Course on Day 2. He played in the final pairing both days on Tuesday and Wednesday to finish in solo second at 5-under par 282. Droemer will be making his second appearance at the PGA Championship in two weeks in Charlotte. Gates finished in a tie for 15th and secured his spot in the Top 20 with a 2-under 70 on the last day. When he finished he thought he might be in a playoff for the final spot to make the Top 20, but after waiting for 2 hours, he was safely in! This was Gates' first PGA Professional Championship and will be his first PGA Championship. Gates is currently the Director of Instruction at Summit Golf Schools in Spring, TX and “We couldn’t be more thrilled with how this initiative came to life,” said STPGA Executive Director Thomas Hutton. “What started as an idea on a whiteboard became a reality thanks to the support of First Community and the enthusiasm of our members. The performances from Jesse, Bobby, and the rest of the team truly made this special.”

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