CR golf standout signs letter of intent

By Caroline Rosacker

Clayton Ridge women's prep golf notable Courtney Olson, daughter of Janet and Jeff "Ole" Olson of Guttenberg, has signed a letter of intent to continue her golf career at the University of Dubuque. The event took place at the Guttenberg Golf and Country Club on March 26.  Olson, a senior at Clayton Ridge, plans to major in business while attending the university. 

University of Dubuque director of golf Dustin Bierman told The Press, "Courtney caught our attention during the summer prep touring events about three years ago." 

“Prep” tours are designed for young golfers who have more experience in competitive golf. Golfers participating in the tours have a chance to play on 9-hole executive and regulation courses and 18-hole executive courses. The tour events are designed to challenge the young golfer on a variety of courses against a broader range of competitors. 

Olson shared her reasons for her commitment to the University of Dubuque with The Press,  "I chose the University because I like the coach, and the team made me feel very welcome. It just felt like home."

This humble young woman started golfing at a very young age.   

Olson commented, "I have been golfing for 14 years. I started when I was three years old. My dad always let me drive the ball, and then he would pick it up and place it at his shot, and then I would hit it again."

With sincere appreciation, gratitude and love of family, Olson described her love of the sport, "My favorite part of golf and what I love the most is spending time with my family on the course. I've never had a private lesson, my dad taught me everything I know. I enjoy golfing with my dad and my brothers. It keeps me competitive." 

Not to be swayed by flashy golf celebrities, Olson proudly shared her inspiration for the game, "My golf hero is my grandpa Don — he set the Luana Golf Course record and it still stands today." 

Olson's golf average is 42, and her best game was a 37. She uses Callaway woods, Ping irons, Nike shoes and prefers Nike or Taylor made golf balls. She continued to express further gratitude for the support of Danny Ganahl in helping shape her game. 

Her desire to become a better golfer started during her freshman year at Clayton Ridge. "I went to state my freshman year and didn't play as well as I wanted. I came home and worked hard all summer to make my game more competitive," she said.

Her impressive state statistics speak for themselves. Olson's freshman year garnered an 18th place; sophomore year, fifth place and her junior year she was runner-up. 

"My favorite tournaments are conference, regional and state meets," she commented. 

Olson described her strengths, saying, "Putting is probably the strongest part of my game. It's frustrating when my driving is not straight."

Olson recommends golfers focus on their entire game. "Driving is only one component of your game. I feel working on your chipping and putting is most important," she said.

Olson is eagerly awaiting an opportunity to prove herself during the upcoming golf season and state competition. 

When she is not on the golf course practicing her game, this outdoor girl enjoys fishing and playing basketball.  "I golf to make my two grandpa's who have passed away and my grandma's and parents proud, " she said with a smile.  Good luck Courtney!