It all began in 1962, golfing in the foothills between the rugged Sespe and San Cayetano Mountain ranges just outside of Fillmore! Saturday, July 7, 2012 was the 50th Anniversary of the Elkins Ranch Golf Club and it was time to recognize this milestone. To celebrate Elkins offered a golf tournament and catered dinner with live music and which is typical of this Valley, the evening weather could not have been better.

Although I was unable to attend this event it has prompted me to look further into the history of this land prior to it becoming a destination PGA rated golf course sought out by many well-known and dedicated golfers. Even the infamous and now jailed O.J. Simpson tried to play a round there while he was awaiting trial! For the life of me I don't know why he thought he could play anonymously on this course with all the media coverage he had garnered, but soon the crowds formed and the Sheriff was called to resolve the situation. When I complete my research I am hoping to submit an article in the near future on the Elkins family and Elkins Ranch prior to the Elkins Ranch Golf Club.

The day was a beautiful day for golfing and golfers were met at the end of the tournament by family and friends for a catered dinner and live music. The guest included some members that were players with the club when it first opened in 1962. The Elkins cousins came from far and near to celebrate the 50 year anniversary and share family stories.

Elkins Ranch Golf Course is located at 1386 Chambersburg Road just outside of the City of Fillmore. The Elkins Ranch golf course has evolved and today exhibits the care and thought that have taken full advantage of its unique location and natural landscape. The course has five lakes that are placed on nine different holes. Several of the tees have magnificent views of the City of Fillmore, Santa Clara Valley, the Santa Clara River, citrus, avocado groves, nursery stock and the emerging row crops that are replacing many of the orchards this area is known for.

There is also a practice area to hit away and practice your golf swing, pro shop and the much praised snack shop located at the course. I must admit, it should be obvious from this article, that I am not a golfer, but I have personally eaten many hamburgers at the cafe and visited with friends, coworkers and family while enjoying the view and beauty of the Elkins Ranch Golf Course.

The successful event was coordinated by the Moorpark based “Be a Guest Events” Owner Terri Doria. Terri told me, “I was humbled and honored to put together this most memorable event. My guess is that neither Terri and I will be around for the 100th Celebration, but if they do a 75th there is a good chance we may make that one!