Photo: Contributed

Golfers across the Central Okanagan have been itching for weeks to dust off the golf clubs and hit the links.

But, a cold and snowy end to winter pushed that date further, and further into March.

The first courses of the season don't expect to open until the end of next week.

Two Eagles in West Kelowna is typically the first to open up.

Director of Golf Dean Claggett says they are shooting for Thursday, March 28.

"We opened the range today, and normally, we open the course about a week after that," said Claggett.

While there is a bit of snow left in some spots, Claggett says it's the prep work that takes the time.

"It's more about cutting the fairways, cutting the rough, getting the bunkers ready and cutting the greens. Getting everything prepped.

"It just takes time. The parking lot is a mess and there are branches everywhere. It's making the course ready for people's expectations because you don't want to open up when it doesn't look nice."

This is the latest opening Claggett can remember in his 15 years at the course.

Both the Harvest and Kelowna Springs courses typically open soon after Two Eagles.

The Harvest is looking at a Friday, March 29 opening, while Kelowna Springs are looking at that same weekend, if all goes well between now and then.

If you're looking to rediscover your swing after the long off season, most of the driving ranges are open for the season. The Golf Centre on Benvoulin, World Beat on Old Vernon Road, Kelowna Driving Range on Casorso and the Two Eagles driving range are all open for the season.