Jon Rizzi, executive director of the Golf History of Colorado Foundation—the nonprofit responsible for the Colorado Golf Hall of Fame—has dedicated his career to celebrating and safeguarding Colorado’s golf legacy. Rizzi is both a historian and a passionate advocate for the state’s golf heritage. His connection to Colorado golf took root nearly two decades ago when he founded and served as editor of Colorado AvidGolfer magazine, and his knowledge reaches beyond the fairways and greens, reflecting a deep appreciation for Colorado’s culture, history, and lifestyle. We asked him to share his top recommendations for must-visit locations and hidden gems both on and off the course.
Favorite Colorado golf course: Ballyneal
Favorite Colorado golf hole: #17 at Cherry Hills (private), #17 at Telluride Golf Club
Favorite destination course: Ventana Canyon (Tucson); Royal Malta Golf Club (Malta)
Favorite country club: The Broadmoor or Denver CC (both drip with history)
Favorite local golf brands: Golftec, BirdieBall, Pins & Aces
Best local mini golf: Hyland Hills Adventure Golf
Top place for gear: Lenny’s Golf & Ski
Favorite locally made gear: Edel Golf wedges and putters
Best post-round happy hour: Colorado National
Favorite public course: Willis Case
Best course for beginners: Par-3 courses at Greg Mastriona Courses at Hyland Hills
Favorite golf course restaurant: Ravenna Country Club (private), Green Valley Ranch (public)
Best golf course for a quick round: Harvard Gulch
Best golf lesson ever: Jason Witczak, The Club at Pradera
Favorite golf tournament to watch: The Open Championship (a.k.a. the British Open)
Favorite Colorado golfers: Wyndham Clark, Jennifer Kupcho, Mark Hubbard
Most challenging Colorado course: Castle Pines Golf Club (private), Raindance National (public)
Most challenging hole in Colorado: #12 at Bear Creek (private), #13 at TPC Colorado (public)
Dream golf destination: Bandon Dunes (Oregon); Laucala (Fiji)
Favorite golf tip that helped your game: “Swing through the ball, not at it” (or “shut up and play”)
Best golf course for a scenic sunset view: Colorado Golf Club (private), City Park (public)
Most underrated Colorado golf course: Lake Valley (private), Trinidad Golf Course (public)
Favorite course to take out-of-town guests: Arrowhead
Favorite golf course to walk: Ballyneal
Toughest Greens: The Broadmoor East
Favorite Tee Shot: #1 at Sanctuary
Toughest Closing Hole: #18 at Green Valley Ranch
