Same Winnetka golf hole vandalized twice in four weeks

The Winnetka Park District has closed the third hole of its primary course following two acts of vandalism over the past month.

According to Winnetka police, a two-wheeled vehicle — possibly an electric bicycle or scooter — was intentionally driven on the green of Hole No. 3 on Oct. 20 and again sometime between Nov. 10-12.

The result was thousands of dollars worth of damage each time, according to police estimates.

Park District Executive Director Shannon Nazzal in an email said that the second round of damage was more extensive than the first and led to the hole’s closure for the season.

“Out of an abundance of caution and to prevent further impact to the turf, we have temporarily closed Hole 3,” Nazzal wrote. “Our team has stabilized the area, and full restoration of the green will take place in the spring when weather conditions support proper repair.”

Nazzal said the district had not yet compiled a repair estimate, but she believes the costs will “fall within our standard spring maintenance window.”

The Winnetka Golf Club — which includes two courses: one 18 holes and the other 9, par-3 holes — is enjoying wrapping up its first full season following extensive, $12-million renovations that closed the course from late 2022 until mid 2024.

A similar incident occurred in August on The Evans Golf Course at Canal Shores, where multiple golf carts caused extensive damage to multiple holes in the early-morning hours.

Winnetka Deputy Chief Dylan Majcher said both incidents at the Winnetka course remain under investigation.

The Record is a nonprofit, nonpartisan community newsroom that relies on reader support to fuel its independent local journalism.

Become a member of The Record to fund responsible news coverage for your community.

Already a member? You can make a tax-deductible donation at any time.