Chalk Mine open to public, just in time for Masters Week Local course offers accessible, family-friendly golf with community impact

Local and visiting golfers now have a welcoming place to play in Aiken during one of the busiest weeks in the sport, as the Chalk Mine at USCA opens to the public during Masters Week. 

Many courses in the area are packed and expensive during Masters Week, but the nine-hole course is a challenging, easily accessible, great value that benefits the community. 

“At First Tee Aiken, we are committed to creating more opportunities than ever for young people to grow through the game of golf. Our dedicated coaches provide fun, meaningful lessons for students ages 5-18, and we are excited to welcome more students and families into our programs than ever before,” said Summer Watson, chief executive officer of First Tee Aiken, which operates the facility.  

“It’s been wonderful to welcome the public to the Chalk Mine.”  

Tee times are easy to get at Chalk Mine, the USCA golf team’s practice course and the home course for the First Tee of Aiken. Greens fees are affordable, and proceeds support First Tee of Aiken, a local affiliate of the national youth golf program. Families, new players and experienced golfers can now enjoy the fun and challenging nine-hole layout, designed to be played in under 90 minutes. 

“There’s a great mix of golfers enjoying the course, and that’s exactly what we hoped for – a place where everyone feels comfortable, whether you’re a seasoned player or a family introducing kids to golf.” 

During the two weeks of the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and Masters Week – March 29 – April 12 this year – the course will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding Easter Sunday and Masters Sunday. Greens fees during that period are set at $50 to manage demand while keeping the course accessible. After April 12, the Chalk Mine returns to its normal pricing of $20 for adults and $5 for juniors accompanied by an adult. 

Golfers can reserve a tee time online, making it simple to plan a round during this busy season. 

“We wanted to maintain accessibility even during these busy weeks,” Watson said. “Our standard pricing provides a great value to the community, and every dollar goes directly back into our First Tee programs. As we reintroduce the facility to the public, keeping golf affordable is key to welcoming families and new players alike.” 

All greens fees support First Tee Aiken, funding programs that teach young people life skills, confidence, and character through golf. 

“When you play at the Chalk Mine, you’re doing more than just enjoying a round,” Watson said. “We also see the Chalk Mine as a ‘Learning Links’ for our community – a place where golf and life lessons come together, where young people can learn, families can connect, and every round played helps create opportunity for the next generation.” 

“In every sense, the Chalk Mine is more than just a golf course. It’s a community asset – delivering a fun, fast, and affordable playing experience while making a lasting impact on young people across Aiken.” 

First Tee coaches and USCA student-athlete mentors teach the budding athletes lessons beyond the rules of the sport. Other students work at the course as Chalk Mine Leadership Ambassadors, a paid position that supports First Tee’s efforts and provides USCA students practical experience, while enhancing their academic and personal growth.  

“At The Chalk Mine, giving back to the community is happening in ways like never before. Through continued growth and new opportunities, more students and families can pursue the game of golf in a welcoming environment, free from pressure or stigma,” Watson said. 

In their own words  

“A great life skill to have is goal setting. As a young player, you need to develop this skill in all sports. This skill is valuable, as it provides goals and helps you understand your capabilities. As you achieve a goal, you should continue to make bigger ones,” said Lagree, 13.  

“Integrity means choosing to do the right thing even when nobody's looking. I believe integrity is one of the most important life skills because it is also about being honest and building trust,” said Landry, 11. 

“One key commitment I’ve learned is the importance of collaboration with others. I’ve learned that when we work together, we can accomplish more than if we try to do everything on our own,” said Riley, 12.  

Go Back More News