The Hawk Golf Club - Come Try New Owners, Name, Attitude

Bill Smith and the new Hawk Golf Club in Spring Branch, just 30 miles north of San Antonio on Highway 281, are a match made in golfer’s heaven.

The old Rayner Ranch Golf Club was a great layout underneath those centuryold oaks, but was falling into disrepair until Smith, a successful area builder and passionate golf fanatic, came to rescue the course he knew and loved. Since taking over in mid-October, Smith has done a lot more than just slap a new name on the venerable old course. Now he’s ready to invite you out to see its amazing potential.

Like a lot of successful builders, Smith saw the “good bones” of this course, the challenging layout that flows naturally over the rolling Hill Country terrain, with all the features that Texas golfers look for in a “pure” golf course. This one just needed a little TLC to bring those features back.

And have they ever been! It might be easier to list the things Smith and his crew haven’t taken on in the short time they’ve been in control of The Hawk. Beginning with the 12-foot-high limestone wall that separates the first fairway and the driving range, turning a former eyesore into a beautiful way to start your round.

The walk or ride under the new archway to the first tee is a gateway to an unforgettable experience ahead. Simple things like bringing in brand new, state-of-the-art mowing equipment have improved the look and playability of the course, particularly the smooth and fast greens.

The design was not changed significantly. The old second hole and 18th hole have swapped places in the routing and both holes get the benefit of a new water feature (actually a man-made creek) that comes into play on those two holes and the par-4 10th, the creek now forcing players there into the decision of pulling out the driver, or laying up off the elevated tee. To carry out the St. Andrews-like theme at the Hawk are limestone bridges over that new creek that remind one of the famed Swilcan bridge at the Old Course. New back tees are being built to stretch the tips back to 7200 yards, but the 6500-yard blue tees and white tees at just over 6000 yards are a lot more fun, and probably a little less work.

That relaxed atmosphere carries over in the new Shiner Bock Beerhouse at the turn, and the completely renovated clubhouse pub and grill that might be the best 19th hole in Texas, sitting on the top of a hill with spectacular views of #1, 2, 10 and 18 out one side and the gorgeous Hill Country out the other. A full-service menu and bar and new fl at-screen TV’s will keep you updated on all the latest sporting events.

The outdoor Cabana bar and even a country club-style swimming pool make coming to the Hawk a special event in itself, particularly when one of the many musical acts is playing into the evening.

Speaking of those special events, the Hawk’s renovated amenities and professional staff are a perfect combination for your successful golf outing, for 4 or 144. Remember, this is a place run by a homebuilder with an attention for detail.

One detail for players to remember is to visit www.thehawkgolfclub.com often to catch their latest e-specials and competitive offerings. If you played the old Rayner Ranch Golf Club, or even Rebecca Creek before that, you’ll be amazed at the transformation of the old layout into The Hawk Golf Club. You can make a tee time online, or call locally (830) 885-7495, or toll free (888) 354-4913.