Irmo, S.C. Bids Farewell to Weed Hill Driving Range, Celebrates a Golfing Legend
Irmo, South Carolina, once home to the iconic Weed Hill Driving Range, is turning a page as the site transforms into a modern apartment complex. This beloved landmark has played an essential role in the local golfing community, but its legacy lives on—especially in the journey of renowned golfer Dustin Johnson.
The Rise of a Golfing Hub
Founded by Bobby Weed, who was just a high school student at the time, Weed Hill became a beacon for aspiring golfers. Over the years, it has seen many young talents take their first swings, but none have shone quite like Johnson. Nestled right across the road is the Coldstream Golf Course, which is set to undergo its transformation into a bike and walking trail, further changing the landscape of the area.
Dustin Johnson’s Humble Beginnings
Johnson’s story is one of inspiration. He picked up a golf club at just seven years old while spending time with his father at Weed Hill, where he also helped the instructor, Jimmy Koosa, by feeding his dog. This early exposure was crucial for Johnson, as he soaked in the fundamentals of the game. His friends and teammates from Dutch Fork High School remember the days of engaging in competitive money matches, all the while developing their skills and camaraderie.
Early Indicators of Greatness
It quickly became clear that Johnson had a natural talent for golf. He earned a spot on the all-state golf team in seventh grade after an impressive performance at a championship event. But like many young athletes, Johnson faced challenges. Despite his evident talent, there were times when his discipline and commitment wavered, casting doubts on his potential. Such difficulties culminated in him being dismissed from the Irmo golf team, leading him to transfer to Dutch Fork High School for his senior year.
A Turning Point
Fate smiled upon Johnson when Coach Allen Terrell at Coastal Carolina University saw his potential and offered him another chance. Under the guidance of Terrell, Johnson found the structure and discipline he so desperately needed. His powerful swinging style, which was nurtured at Weed Hill and Coldstream, began to flourish. He tirelessly competed, often playing against older and more experienced golfers at the Mid Carolina Golf Club, proving time and time again that he was a force to be reckoned with.
The Impact of Weed Hill’s Legacy
The legacy of Weed Hill Driving Range is about so much more than just a piece of land. It embodies the stories, dreams, and many successes of countless golf enthusiasts, and none better than Johnson. Many around him, including former teammates and coaches, noticed his immense potential long before he became a professional golfer. They were witnesses to his unyielding determination and passion for the game, nurtured during his formative years.
A New Chapter for Irmo
While the transition from Weed Hill to new apartment complexes signifies change in Irmo, it marks yet another chapter in the town’s rich history of golf. The legends made at Weed Hill will always be part of the community’s fabric, inspiring future generations to take up the sport. As Johnson’s career ascends and he aims for a spot in the Hall of Fame, he carries the essence of Weed Hill with him—a tribute to where it all started.
As the local recreation department moves to create trails for walking and biking where Coldstream Golf Course once thrived, the community adapts, ensuring that the spirit of outdoor activity continues to flourish in Irmo, much like the golfing legacy that formed its roots.
