Deals to be had on Aspen links

ASPEN ” It pays to play golf at the Aspen course this month, as I have learned in recent days.

I’ve held off on buying a punch pass, which I eventually will do, but I was waiting to see how the economy and my job played out. Meanwhile, I’ve realized that paying out of pocket to play golf is the way to go right now.

Beyond the special price of $29 for 18 holes of golf through May 15, a non-pass holder can play for half price ($14.50) on Wednesdays if they accompany a pass holder. And on Thursdays, non-pass holders can play for free ” free! ” with a pass holder.

The normal rate is $52.50 for nine or 18 this time of year. But golf officials are trying to keep rates affordable this year for locals who play during shoulder season. Cart fees are $10 per person for nine or 18 through May 15. Rates will likely increase after May 15.

And as an extra bonus, moms play free with a pass holder on Mother’s Day. And it doesn’t have to be your mom ” any mom will do.

Passes can still be purchased on a payment plan ” half down and the rest has to be paid off by June 15.

Other discounts include matching golf ball prices by the dozen of e-tailers and big box stores for Mother’s Day on Precept ($19.99), Srixon ($19.99) and Callaway ($24.99) women’s golf balls. All women’s clothing is 20 percent off through Mother’s Day.

Other happenings at the Aspen Golf Club:

– Match play entry forms are out. The stroke play qualifier begins May 31. Matches will have weekly deadlines for each round, with the first round allowing two weeks for completion because of the AJGA tournament June 8-11. City Match Play is an open event not requiring men’s league membership. USGA handicap is required for all flights except the championship division where no strokes are given.

– The men’s league opening tournament is Saturday. It’s free entry if you sign up for GHIN membership.

– The ladies’ league plays on Wednesdays, both in the morning and nine-holers play after work. The opening luncheon is not until the end of June but regular play will begin Wednesday, May 20.

– Clinics begin May 26. Ladies are Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. and are $20 per session. Saturday ladies’ clinic is from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Men’s clinics are on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. ” $20 per session.

csack@aspentimes.com