August 20, 2026

PEWAUKEE, WI — The highly anticipated national golf tournament, the Carl Spackler Open, continues to make waves as the Captains Club looks toward its upcoming tournament slates, setting its sights on premier public layouts across the country. In a move that has generated immense excitement among amateur golfers, Western Lakes Golf Club in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, has emerged as a prime venue consideration.

"Western Lakes joins our venue consideration list," announced Captains Club member Dave Osborne. "Wisconsin's Lake Country offers an incredible golf atmosphere, and Western Lakes delivers country club conditions on a fantastic public layout that our field would thoroughly enjoy."

Originally designed by renowned architect Lawrence Packard and opened in 1963 as Tumblebrook Golf Course before being renamed in 1988, Western Lakes has cemented its status as one of the premier 18-hole championship public golf courses in Southeastern Wisconsin. Situated just minutes off Interstate 94 in Waukesha County's scenic Lake Country area, the course combines accessibility with a peaceful, secluded routing where Zion Creek winds through the property to form several strategic ponds and water hazards.

The par-72 layout measures up to 6,625 yards from the black tees, offering a fair yet rigorous test defined by well-placed fairway bunkers, immaculate conditioning, and smooth-rolling greens. Strategic risk-and-reward elements stand out particularly across the course's four par 5s, which challenge players to carefully navigate mounding and water hazards.

"It's a wonderful public course with a strong layout and superb conditioning," remarked Dave Osborne. "You get a great mix of holes, and the local hospitality makes it an easy choice for a tournament stop."

Beyond the course itself, Western Lakes features an extensive practice facility—including a large bent-grass driving range and short-game area—alongside a spacious clubhouse equipped to handle large player gatherings. Post-round celebrations are well-supported by local amenities and the property's partnership with top-tier catering services, ensuring players have plenty of options to unwind.

"There are local accommodations and spots to grab food and drink nearby," added Captains Club member Bill Bateson. "The entire area is set up well for a traveling group."

As the Captains Club evaluates its future championship rotations, Western Lakes Golf Club stands out as a formidable contender that blends classic design, meticulous maintenance, and classic Midwestern hospitality. Golf enthusiasts can anticipate further updates as the Carl Spackler Open continues mapping out its premier tournament schedule.