A new golfing challenge in Elgin

Golfers now have a new challenge at the Highlands of Elgin golf course, which unveiled a new course layout this week.

"The Highland development project is complete. You have a great golf course to play and 10 of those holes are brand new," said Mike Lehman, the city of Elgin's golf services manager. "Things are really looking up for people who want to play great golf in Elgin."

Ten of the 18 holes are the course were reconfigured and four holes are now situated on a bluff that's at least 30 feet high, leading to nice views and different ways to attack each hole.

The facility also features a lighted practice facility offering bent grass tees, 30 hitting stations, a short game area and a 9,000-square-foot putting green.

The new holes increased par from 71 to 72 at the course, 875 Sports Way, Elgin.

Mike Iwanicki, a South Elgin resident who got a sneak peek and played the course Thursday, said the conditions were good considering the new holes just opened.

He also said he liked the variations in elevation in the design around an old quarry.

"It meshes very well with the previous holes they built. Now there's a good flow over the course," Iwanicki said. "It's a good course. I like it. I'll be back more."

The new holes will be playable for the general public beginning at about 3:30 p.m. today after a VIP event is complete.

For details, call (847) 931-5950 or visit cityofelgin.org or highlandsofelgin.com.