BIG LITTLE NINE
The Happiest Golf Course On Earth!
Nine-hole golf courses have a long history in the United States and today are becoming as popular as their 18-hole big brother. As land and resources continue to shrink, green space and opportunities for recreation near homes and workplaces in densely populated areas have become more coveted. In fact, in many of the metro areas, 9-hole courses serve as popular havens for both residents and visitors.
Big Little Nine (originally Laguna Oaks) is a newly-introduced par-three course that encourages both professional and casual golfers to go outdoors to have the time of their lives. Jack Morey sat down with New York Lifestyles Magazine to explain his family’s expansion from Morey’s Piers and Resorts in the Wildwoods to the new golf course located 10 minutes away in Cape May, NJ.
THE START OF SOMETHING GOOD
“My dad’s first business partner was a gentleman by the name of Fred Langford, a super innovator, architect, and dreamer. His final passion project was this one,” said Jack. Langford was a legend in the architecture and entertainment world, whose projects ranged from waterpark slides to designing concrete formwork for the National Parliament building in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Described as always being ahead of his time, Langford wanted to make Laguna Oaks a very special place. Fred, who grew up in Cape May, pursued his many passions that led him around the world. His specialty was designing architectural formwork that was used for both fiberglass and concrete.
Early in his career, he met up with his childhood friend and first business partner, Wilbert C. Morey, who was embarking on a new mini-waterpark concept that would one day be known as Morey’s Piers in Wildwood, NJ. Fred designed the stair tower leading to the top of the waterslides and became so fascinated with this new industry that he immediately started thinking about how to do it better. He soon converted his formal training in concrete formwork design into designing formwork for a new version of fiberglass waterslides. His new company was named Surf Coaster and his slides were built on six continents. His impact in the amusement industry led to being inducted into the Amusement Hall of Fame.
COMPLETING A DREAM
Fred’s final passion project was the design of Laguna Oaks golf course. You’ll see his imprint with the concrete retaining walls around the lakes; he both designed and built the forms. With Fred’s passing late last year, it was then that the Morey Family continued the passion Fred had started. “It’s now complete and open,” says Jack, “and I’m proud to have helped Fred achieve his dream.
Big Little Nine is open seven days a week and accepts reservations for tee times—just in time for families to enjoy the sun and warmth of the Jersey Shore. Jack mentioned that the signature holes include the 7th island green hole where a beautiful weeping willow tree and memorial sits proudly in remembrance of Fred Langford. At the 9th hole, a Happy Face is carved out in the sand traps. He also reassures us that there are plenty of instructors available for those who need tips and lessons.
“Just like us, we’re excited about everyone getting to know and appreciate golf,” he said. Always ready to please visitors, Jack described how they have a complete Clubhouse with all the amenities for a golfer, plus a cool collection of Big Little Nine merchandise. There’s also the Cup of Bliss on Green, a café offering specialty coffees and gourmet hot dogs.
For those who have booked reservations in any one of their four hotels (Pan American, Port Royal, Starlux Boutique, and Blue Palms) at their Wildwood location—or partners including ICONA Resorts—guests will receive a 15 percent discount at Big Little Nine. Jack added that the Morey Family is enthusiastic to welcome Big Little Nine to their collection of entertainment and resort properties. “I’m certain that once you experience the 9-hole course’s uniqueness and beauty, you will be thrilled whether you’re a novice or a pro.” Jack mentioned more surprises are in the planning stages for the future. Stay tuned.
For more information on Big Little Nine, visit biglittle9.com;
for information on Morey’s Piers, visit moreyspiers.com
MEET THE MOREY FAMILY
In 1969, the Morey name was not recognized as it is today. If anything, their business in hotels and motels would have been associated with a mention, if known at all. But then, brothers Will and Bill Morey noticed something new in modern recreation while at a shopping center in Florida. Amazed by the crowd’s reaction to a giant slide, the pair surmised it could be popular at their home in New Jersey. So, after acquiring a single 70’ strip of beach real estate in North Wildwood, the Wipe Out slide was built and became a summer sensation. That was the beginning.
During the 1970s, several amusement piers decorated Wildwood’s beachfront. But those Morey upstarts were most likely not considered to be any competition. Expanding the pier around the slide, the Morey brothers added a mix of rides to keep visitors nearby for extended periods. They appealed to both families and thrill-seekers with offerings for both. Soon the pier, now known as Morey’s Surfside Pier, was the hot ticket in town.
In the following decades, the beachfront underwent some changes. Many amusement piers were closed due to misfortune or a decrease in popularity. But the two brothers invested in roller coasters, a giant Ferris wheel, and more big rides followed. The brothers kept their properties relevant. More rides and success followed.
Then in 1998 with Will Sr.’s passing, 2nd generation brothers, Will Jr. and Jack, assume the business and continue today. Along the way, Wildwood has become a year-round destination, admittedly with the help of the Morey Family.
Today, the piers are thriving. Three amusement piers (Surfside, Mariners and Adventure) as well as two beachfront water parks (Ocean Oasis and Raging Waters) afford more than 100 rides and attractions.
For over 50 years, the Morey Family have added more bells and whistles but remains true to their mission: to provide a spectacular family recreational experience in an exceptionally safe, clean, friendly, and unique environment. --PC