Who’s Who of Sponsors Set Up First Tee Facility

The forces behind The First Tee of Northwest Arkansas’ new Lowell facility are evident in the names of its components.

First Tee executive director Mike Shea oversaw groundbreaking ceremonies at Ward Nail Park on Nov. 4, and thanked a host of corporate sponsors that made it possible. The day also celebrated the successful end of a $1.35 million capital campaign.

In addition to the Tyson Foods First Tee Learning Center, the facility will feature a three-hole course sponsored by General Mills, a driving range sponsored by J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc., a short-game area sponsored by the P&G NWA Championship, a clubhouse and pavilion sponsored by Wal-Mart Stores Inc., and a mentorship room made possible by H.J. Heinz Co.

Shea said First Tee conducted a feasibility study in regard to constructing facilities in Fayetteville and Bentonville, but decided to go with a single site in Lowell after Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc.’s Mike Lewis suggested Ward Nail Park. Lewis first mentioned the park while attending a used-club sale at First Tee’s current facility.

“Probably by the time he was in the parking lot,” Shea said, “I was on the phone.”

Shea said the bid process for construction should open in early December, with an eye on a January start date. If that happens, the driving range could be open around Memorial Day and the course around Labor Day.