THE RIVER REPORT
PETE DYE RIVER COURSE OF VIRGINIA TECH
YOUR CLUB
PRESTON’SRESTAURANT*
Monday I CLOSED
Tuesday I CLOSED
Wednesday I 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday I 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
Friday I 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
Saturday I 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday I 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
GOLFSHOP*
Monday-Thursday I 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday-Sunday I 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
PRACTICEFACILITIES
Open 30 minutes prior to first tee time
Closes at dusk
Sundays I Closed from 5:00 pm
CLUBNUMBERS
Main Office 540 633 6732
Golf Shop 540 633 6732
Restaurant...................540.633.2667
Special Events 540 633 1807
*Hours are subject to change
CLUB CONTACTS
Kari Kendall | General Manager foh@petedyerivercourse com
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
JC Botero | Executive Chef chef@petedyerivercourse.com
GOLF
DJ Shively | Resident Golf Professional dj.shively@petedyerivercourse.com
GROUNDS
Greg Caldwell | Golf Course Superintendent greg.caldwell@petedyerivercourse.com
BUSINESS OFFICE Amanda Ferguson | HR & Accounting aferguson@petedyerivercourse com
THE CORNER OFFICE
Dear Members,
Spring has arrived at The River Course, and it’s already shaping up to be a wonderful season. Tournaments are underway, flowers are in bloom, and the warmer weather has brought a fresh energy to the course. We’re especially excited to welcome our new members and look forward to sharing this beautiful property with all of you.
Live music is back as well! Be sure to check out our upcoming lineup of performers, and feel free to bring along friends and family to relax and enjoy the view.
We’re also thrilled to introduce our new Spring menu, featuring fresh flavors perfect for the season We can’t wait for you to try it
See you out on the course! Thanks again for your continued support
Kari Kendall General Manager foh@petedyerivercourse
com
ON THE LINKS
Dear Members,
As we move into the heart of the golf season, we’re excited to announce our upcoming events. The course is in great shape, and we’re looking forward to a fantastic stretch of golf over the next two months
Men’s League – Begins in May
Our Thursday Men’s League returns this May This is a great way to enjoy some friendly competition, meet fellow members, and make the most of your weekday evenings Thursdays @ 5:30
Match Play Championship – Qualifying in May
We’re kicking off our annual Match Play Championship with qualifying rounds throughout the month of May Members may submit up to three qualifying scores, with the best two net scores used for placement in the bracket Matches will officially begin in June Be sure to get your rounds in and secure your spot!
Course Aerification – June 2 & 3
To maintain the high-quality playing conditions you expect, we will be performing course aerification on June 2nd and 3rd. The course will be closed on both days. We appreciate your understanding as this essential process helps ensure excellent turf health throughout the season.
Titleist Fitting Day – June 16
Join us on June 16th for a Titleist Fitting Day This is a great opportunity to get dialed in with the latest equipment and work with professional fitters to optimize your performance More details and sign-up information will be available in the golf shop
Poker Golf Tournament – June 27
Teams of 4 will compete against other teams in a Net tournament Players will be individually competing to create the best 5 card poker hand Throughout the day players will have chances to earn cards to create the best hand
We look forward to seeing you out on the course and at these upcoming events. As always, if you have any questions or need assistance signing up, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the golf shop
Best,
DJ Shively
Resident Golf Professional
dj.shively@petedyerivercourse.com
INSTRUCTIONAL TIPS
Golf Tip of the Month: Improve Your Tempo ⏱
DJ Shively, Resident Golf Professional
Putting Practice – Start It on the Right Line
As we head into the start of the season, I want to focus on one of the most important fundamentals in golf: starting your putts on the correct line. Speed certainly matters, but if your ball doesn’t start on your intended line, it has no chance of going in regardless of pace. At short to mid-range distances especially, direction is the single biggest factor in making more putts Great putters aren’t just good at reading greens they are excellent at starting the ball precisely where they intend
Why Starting Line Matters Most
A putt struck on the wrong line by even a degree or two will miss the hole within just a few feet. From 8–10 feet, a slightly misaligned face at impact is the difference between the center of the cup and the edge. Remember:
The putter face controls roughly 85–90% of the ball’s starting direction
Your stroke path plays a role, but face angle at impact is king
If we can control the face, we can control the start line that’s when putts start dropping
DRILLS TO IMPROVE YOUR START LINE
Here are a few simple but highly effective drills you can use during your practice sessions:
1. Gate Drill (Tee Gate)
Place two tees just slightly wider than your ball.
Position them about 12–18 inches in front of your ball on your intended line.
Putt the ball through the gate without touching the tees
This gives you immediate feedback If you hit a tee, your face or path was off When the ball rolls cleanly through the gate, you know you started it on line.
2. Chalk Line or String Line Drill
Snap a chalk line or stretch a string on a straight 6–8 foot putt
Set up with your ball directly under the line
Practice rolling the ball so it stays directly on the line for as long as possible
If the ball falls off immediately, your face angle needs attention. This drill builds confidence in starting the ball exactly where you aim.
3. One-Handed Putting
Practice short putts (3–5 feet) using only your trail hand
This enhances your feel for the putter face and improves face awareness at impact
You’ll quickly notice how sensitive face angle is and how small adjustments make a big difference.
Practice with Purpose
Instead of hitting 20 random putts from different spots, focus on: 10–15 quality repetitions from one spot
Clear intention on your starting line
Immediate feedback
Master the start line first Once you consistently begin the ball where you’re aiming, speed control becomes much easier to refine
If you’d like help evaluating your putting stroke or want a structured practice plan this spring, I’d be happy to work with you. Let’s make more putts this season.
TURF TALK
Major Event Preparation
Major member events and tournaments are some of the most exciting times of the golf season, and preparing the golf course for these events requires extensive planning, coordination, and attention to detail Long before the first tee shot is struck, the maintenance team is already working behind the scenes to ensure the course is presented in the best possible condition
Tournament preparation often begins weeks in advance Greens, tees, fairways, and roughs are carefully monitored and managed to promote healthy turf and consistent playing conditions Fertility, irrigation, mowing heights, and plant growth regulator programs may all be adjusted to help achieve the desired course setup while maintaining turf health throughout the event period
Putting greens typically receive the most attention leading up to tournaments Extra rolling, detailed moisture management, and carefully timed mowing practices help improve green speed and consistency. The goal is to provide firm, smooth, and fair putting surfaces while avoiding unnecessary stress on the turf.
Course setup also plays a major role in tournament preparation. Hole locations, tee marker placements, bunker conditions, and rough heights are adjusted to create a challenging but enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels Staff members also spend additional time detailing the golf course, including edging bunkers, trimming around signs and sprinkler heads, preparing landscape areas, and ensuring the overall presentation meets tournament expectations.
Weather can often create challenges during tournament weeks, requiring flexibility and constant communication among the maintenance staff. Irrigation schedules, mowing operations, and daily setup procedures may need to change quickly depending on rainfall, temperature, and turf conditions
Preparing for major events is truly a team effort that involves many long hours and a strong commitment from the entire maintenance staff We take great pride in showcasing the golf course during these special occasions and appreciate the support and patience of our members and guests throughout the preparation process Our goal is always to provide exceptional playing conditions and an enjoyable tournament experience for everyone involved
Regards,
Greg Caldwell Superintendent greg caldwell@petedyerivercourse com
SUNDAY BRUNCH
EVERY SUNDAY | 11AM - 2PM
Sunday brunch info goes here
Call for reservations 540 633 2667 | Foh@peteyerivercourse com
MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH
SUNDAY, MAY 10 | 11AM - 2PM
Bagels & Lox | Ham & Cheese Bake | French Toast & Fruit Compote Beignets | Shrimp Cocktail | Feta & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Charcuterie & Fruit Board | Seasonal Salad | Chicken Tenders
Assorted Desserts
Call for reservations 540 633 2667 | Foh@peteyerivercourse com
RHYTHM ON THE RIVER
BITES, BREWS, & BEATS
JOIN US ON THE PATIO FOR LIVE MUSIC ALL SUMMER LONG
May 1 - Jason Derek
May 22 - Sharon Edwards
June 5 - The Meeting
June 19 - Dean Trimble, Boone, & Tim Dawson
July 10 - Jason Derek
July 31 - Ryan Patterson
August 7 - Dirt Road Breakdown
Preston’ s at The River
Choiceofsides:Fries,chips,orsweetpotatofries
SANDWICHES
Buffalo Chicken Wrap
Spring Menu
Toppingsinclude:Ketchup,mustard,relish,mayo,andBBQsauce
Additionaltoppings( 50each):Bacon,chili,cheese,orjalapeños
Substituteasidesaladorsidesoupfor 4
Oz Cheeseburger
CrispyorgrilledchickentossedinBuffalosauce,servedon abedofbibblettuce,tomato,andcheese,allwrappedina garlicpestotortilla Servedwithyourchoiceofside
Chicken Caesar Wrap
Crispy or grilled chicken served on a bed of crisp romaine lettuce and Parmesan cheese, tossed in Caesar dressing, and wrapped in a garlic pesto tortilla. Served with your choice of side
Chicken Ranch Wrap ~12.5
Grilled chicken served on a bed of crisp romaine lettuce, with tomato, bacon, and ranch dressing Served with your choice of side
Greek Lamb Gyro
Seasoned lamb thinly sliced, served on a pita bread, topped with tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomato, and marinated onions Served with your choice of side
McConnell Club
Stacked on Texas toast and loaded with turkey, ham, Swiss, cheddar, bacon, mayo, lettuce, and tomato Served with your choice of side.
Chicken Sandwich
Grilled or crispy chicken, served on a hamburger bun topped with lettuce, tomato Served with your choice of side
Cuban Sandwich
Pork shoulder marinated with Cuban flavors, slow cooked, & served on a toasted hoagie roll, topped with Swiss cheese, mayo, pickles, and mustard Served with your choice of side
BLT Sandwich
Classic sandwich with bacon, lettuce, and tomato Served with your choice of side
DESSERTS
Juicybeefpattytoppedwithcheddarcheese, lettuce,tomato,onion,andpickles Servedwith yourchoiceofside
Golfers Burger
4oz smash burger with cheddar cheese, lettuce, and tomato. Served with chips or fries.
BBQ Cheeseburger
Juicy double 4oz beef patties topped with Cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, and onion ring Served with your choice of side
Classic Reuben
Cured and thinly sliced corned beef served on rye toast and topped with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and 1000 Island dressing Served with your choice of side.
Salmon BLT
Hand-cut 5oz grilled salmon, bibb lettuce, bacon, and fried green tomato, finished with garlic herb mayo on toasted rye bread Served with your choice of side.
Turkey Melt Sandwich
~16
~17
~20
~15
Thinly sliced, oven roasted turkey breast topped with Swiss cheese, grilled and served on sourdough bread. Served with your choice of side.
Single dog served with chips or fries
P R E S T O N ’ S
A
Preston’ s at The River - Spring Menu
APPETIZERS
One pound of crispy wings, served with celery. Tossed in your favorite sauce: Buffalo, Dry Rub, BBQ, Sweet Thai, Lemon Pepper or Jerk Seasoning Served with blue cheese or ranch
Quesadilla
Grilled garlic pesto tortilla stuffed with mixed cheese Served with roasted tomato salsa and sour cream
Add grilled chicken 7 25 Pound of Wings
3 Soft Tacos
Seasoned taco meat, cheddar cheese, and roasted tomato salsa
Nachos
Freshtortillachips,toppedwithtacomeat,cheese, sauce,jalapeños,sourcream,lettuce,&tomato
SOUP & SALADS
Soup of the Day Chili
McConnell House Salad
Springmixgreenstoppedwithslicedredonion,tomato, cucumber,radishes,andcroutons Finishedwithour signatureMcConnellvinaigrette
Caesar Salad
Romaine hearts topped with shaved aged Parmesan and croutons Finished with creamy Caesar dressing
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Fresh salad tossed with tomato, Monterey Jack & Cheddar cheese in a buffalo sauce topped with crispy tortilla & corn pico de gallo Your choice of crispy or grilled chicken
Accompaniments
Chicken~7 25 Salmon~11
Dressingoptions Ranch,BlueCheese,McConnellVinaigrette,Italian,HoneyMustard
A McConnell Golf Property
P R E S T O N ’ S
BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT WITH US
From birthday parties to anniversaries, baby showers, and graduation parties, the clubhouse at Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech offers an unforgettable setting for your next event. Overlooking the historic New River, our elevated terrace and banquet rooms provide breathtaking views of the course and surrounding landscape
Whether you're planning an intimate celebration or a large-scale event, our flexible indoor space can accommodate groups from 10 to 115 guests Partitioned layouts are available to better serve smaller gatherings, while the full room can be configured to meet the needs of corporate functions, receptions, and more
Amenities & Features:
Panoramic river and golf course views Wi-Fi and modern AV technology
Microphone, projector, 52" LCD monitors, podium, and sound system
On-site event coordination and setup support
To book your event today, email foh@petedyerivercourse.com or submit an event inquiry using the button below
EVENT INQUIRY FORM
MEMBERSHIP
Join one of Virginia's top-ranked golf destinations and enjoy all that Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech has to offer Our membership options are designed to fit a variety of lifestyles, whether you're a passionate golfer, a Virginia Tech student, or simply want to enjoy the clubhouse and social atmosphere.
There’s a true sense of community among our members, and our team is proud to recognize the important role they play in the continued success of the River Course. Membership here means being valued not burdened. That’s why our members are never subject to operational or capital assessments, and there are no minimum spending requirements
Membership Benefits:
Unlimited play with no time restrictions
14 days advance tee time preference
10% off non-sale golf apparel
Member-priced handicap fees
Opportunity to purchase a range plan
Privilege of walking anytime
Member-only golf events
To view annual membership opportunities and to apply for membership, click the button below or scan the QR code
MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
MEMBERSHIP AT PETE DYE RIVER COURSE OF VIRGINIA TECH
