August 2023 THE CHARBONNEAU VILLAGER 11

By KERRY PHILLIPS

Amidst the sprawling green fairways at the Charbonneau Country Club , lifelong golfers Darrel Wells , Carl Hanacek and Peg Wells have unlocked the secret to staying young at heart . The trio resides in SpringRidge , an active retirement community , and finds fulfillment in the camaraderie , friendly competition and timeless joy that the game brings .

“ I started playing golf over 50 years ago , and it ’ s greatly enhanced my life ,” said Carl , who plays four times a week . “ You ’ re reaping the benefits of being outdoors and getting exercise .”

The thrill of competition is also a hit for Carl . He and his grandson , Thomas , compete in the country club ’ s two-day invitational tournament , earning the top spot in the most recent event . He ’ s looking forward to defending their title .

“ My son also plays golf , so it ’ s become a

family affair ,” he said . “ We enjoy spending quality time together .”

Carl ’ s neighbor , Darrel , moved to SpringRidge one-and-a-half years ago and has played the sport for over 70 years , discovering his love of the game at 15 .

“ SpringRidge ’ s proximity to the country club makes it very convenient for me to continue playing golf ; plus a complimentary social membership is included in our monthly fee ,” said the former teacher who also coached the high school golf team . “ While Charbonneau ’ s

SpringRidge ’ s Darrel Wells has unlocked the secret to staying young at heart : golf .

COURTESY PHOTO : KERRY PHILLIPS

ambiance - near a river , forest-like setting , and winding roads - sold me on SpringRidge , the social membership was a nice plus .”

Though Peg was already a member of the Charbonneau Country Club before moving to SpringRidge , she finds she can now get to the fairways much faster . She takes advantage of SpringRidge ’ s golf cart garage , which provides a secure area for residents to store their golf carts and equipment .

“ I get up , get in my golf cart , and I ’ m at the pro shop in less than a mile ,” she said . “ I play with the Charbonneau Women ’ s Golf Club on Tuesdays and Thursdays and with my husband , Howard , one-to-two times a week .”

Peg has been a golfer for over six decades , first picking up a golf club in Hawaii . She is thrilled to continue her passion for the game while in SpringRidge .

“ Walking while enjoying the beauty of nature builds stamina , and being with others promotes good health ,” she added . “ I play every chance I get . I love the camaraderie and meeting wonderful people .”

Beyond the golf course , Darrel , Carl and Peg immerse themselves in the many programs , activities and special events offered at SpringRidge . Carl , for example , plays bridge and serves on various committees . Similarly , Darrel enjoys bridge and looks forward to live music on Fridays , while Peg continues to nurture her other two passions : art and gardening .

“ You can be as busy or as relaxed as you wish ,” added Darrel . “ All you have to say is ‘ I want to ...’ and there ’ s an activity to match your interest . We love living here and taking advantage of the many benefits , including the maintenance-free lifestyle .”

The SpringRidge at Charbonneau campus offers a comprehensive menu of lifestyle options , including CARF-accredited assisted living and memory care services at SpringRidge Court . For more information or to schedule a personal tour , please visit SpringRidgeatCharbonneau . com .

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