A Journey Through the Greens: Preparing Castle Pines for the 2024 BMW Championship

As the 2024 BMW Championship approaches, Castle Pines Golf Club in Castle Rock, Colorado, is gearing up to host the world's top golfers on a course renowned for its stunning elevation changes and strategic design. Nestled at an altitude of 6,400 feet, this Jack Nicklaus-designed course is a true test of skill, combining natural beauty with demanding play. Leading the charge in preparing the course is Scott Pavalko, a seasoned Director of Golf Course and Grounds with 21 years of experience as a GCSAA member.

Scott Pavalko’s team at Castle Pines includes superintendents Trevor Meints and Brandon Wollesen, senior assistant John Calendine, and a dedicated group of turf specialists, horticulturists, and maintenance professionals. Together, they are responsible for ensuring that the 210-acre course is in peak condition for the tournament. This year, the course has undergone extensive renovations, including new bunkers, rebuilt tees and greens, and enhanced water features—all carefully overseen to preserve the original Nicklaus design while meeting modern standards.

Turfgrass Specifications:

• Greens: T1 Bentgrass / Poa annua, maintained at a precise height of .100 inches for a fast and consistent roll, with a Stimpmeter reading of 13.
• Collars: T1 Bentgrass / Poa annua, cut to .225 inches.
• Approaches: Bentgrass / Poa annua, at a height of .375 inches, providing a seamless transition from fairway to green.
• Tees: Bentgrass / Poa annua, trimmed to .400 inches, offering a firm and uniform surface for tee shots.
• Fairways: A cool-season mix of Bentgrass, Poa annua, and perennial ryegrass, maintained at .400 inches for optimal playability.
• Rough: A challenging mix of Kentucky bluegrass, turf-type tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass, cut to a formidable height of over 4 inches.

Course Statistics:

• Total Yardage: The course will play at an imposing 8,130 yards, emphasizing the importance of distance and accuracy.
• Average Green Size: 5,600 square feet, requiring precision in approach shots.
• Fairway Width: Average landing areas are just 27 yards wide, putting a premium on accuracy.
• Sand Bunkers: 77 strategically placed bunkers that guard fairways and greens.
• Water Hazards: 10 water hazards come into play across the course, demanding careful shot planning.

The unique environmental conditions at Castle Pines also play a role in the course’s character. With rocky native soil and a water supply sourced from reclaimed water and wells, the turf management team faces the ongoing challenge of maintaining healthy, resilient playing surfaces. The course’s dramatic elevation changes, combined with its rugged terrain, make for a visually stunning but technically demanding layout.

Adding to the course's allure is its wildlife, including a herd of 250 elk, deer, bobcats, mountain lions, and a variety of bird species, such as bald eagles and hummingbirds. This natural backdrop enhances the experience for players and spectators alike, making the 2024 BMW Championship at Castle Pines an event not to be missed.

As the tournament dates approach, Pavalko and his team continue their meticulous preparations, ensuring that Castle Pines will provide a true test of golf that showcases both the skill of the players and the expertise of those who maintain the course. The 2024 BMW Championship promises to be a memorable event, where the beauty of nature meets the precision of world-class golf.

FULL TOURNAMENT FACT SHEET:  CLICK HERE

The FedEx St. Jude Championship Returns to TPC Southwind

The prestigious FedEx St. Jude Championship is set to take place at TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee, from August 15-18, 2024. This marks another exciting chapter in the history of this renowned tournament, as the world’s top golfers converge on this challenging and beautifully maintained course.

Meet the Superintendent: Nick Bisanz

Leading the charge in ensuring the course is in peak condition is Nick Bisanz, the Director of Golf Course Maintenance at TPC Southwind. With over 21 years as a GCSAA member and 13 years of experience as a superintendent, Nick brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. Having been involved in 19 professional tournaments, including 10 FedEx events, his experience is invaluable in preparing the course for this high-stakes championship.

Course Overview

Course Architect: Ron Prichard (1988)
Par: 35-35—70
Yardage: 7,243 yards
Average Green Size: 4,300 sq. ft.
Total Property Acres: 220
Fairways: 22 acres
Rough: 115 acres
Sand Bunkers: 75
Water Hazards: 11 (in play on 11 holes)
Soil Conditions: Clay
Water Sources: Storm runoff / well

Turfgrass Management

• Greens: Champion bermudagrass at .090”
• Collars and Approaches: Tifsport bermudagrass at .275”
• Tees: Meyer zoysiagrass at .275”
• Fairways: Zeon zoysiagrass at .375”
• Rough: 419 bermudagrass at 3”

Recent Enhancements and Course Conditions

TPC Southwind has undergone several recent improvements, including a fairway conversion from Meyer Zoysiagrass to Zeon Zoysiagrass. Looking ahead, green and tee complex renovations are scheduled to begin in November, which will involve mostly restorative work to maintain the current grade and slope with slight architectural changes.

Despite the challenges posed by fluctuating weather conditions—alternating between heat, rain, and dry spells—Nick and his team have ensured that the course remains in top shape. With average landing areas of 25 yards wide, the course offers both challenges and opportunities for the world’s best golfers.

A Dedicated Team

Nick Bisanz is supported by a dedicated team, including Senior Assistant Superintendent Eddie Chittom, Assistants Grady Nabors and Sane Seymour, Equipment Manager David Lopez, and PGA Professional Will Heirtzler. Together, they manage a crew of 25 employees and an equal number of tournament volunteers. Even the course's beloved dogs, Mille the border collie and Honey the yellow lab, play their part in keeping TPC Southwind a well-oiled machine.

Join the Action

As the first event of the FedExCup Playoffs, the FedEx St. Jude Championship promises to deliver thrilling competition on a meticulously prepared course. Stay tuned as the best golfers in the world vie for a chance to advance to the next round and ultimately claim the FedExCup trophy.

In a dramatic finish that will be talked about for years to come, Scottie Scheffler captured the gold medal at the 2024 Men's Olympic Golf competition.

The golfing world was treated to a rollercoaster of emotions as the final round unfolded at Le National in Paris. With Jon Rahm holding a commanding lead, it looked like the Spaniard was destined for gold. However, a stunning collapse on the back nine opened the door for a host of contenders, including Tommy Fleetwood and Hideki Matsuyama.

But it was Scheffler who stole the show. With a flawless back nine that included four consecutive birdies, the world number one charged up the leaderboard and into contention. His clutch birdie on the 17th hole put him in the driver's seat, and a tense wait followed as Fleetwood made a valiant effort to force a playoff.

Ultimately, Scheffler's incredible round proved too much to overcome, and he was crowned Olympic champion. His victory adds another chapter to his already legendary 2024 season, which includes multiple PGA Tour wins and a second Masters title.

This Olympic gold medal will undoubtedly go down as one of the greatest achievements of Scheffler's career. His ability to perform under immense pressure and deliver when it mattered most is a testament to his incredible talent and mental fortitude.

Photo Credit:  The Sporting News

Welcome to the 2024 Olympics Golf Tournament at Le Golf National

As the world gathers in Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics, the spotlight shines brightly on Le Golf National, where the men's and women's golf competitions will take place. From August 1-4, the men will showcase their skills, followed by the women from August 8-11. This renowned course, designed by Hubert Chesneau and Robert von Hagge, has been meticulously prepared under the expert care of Golf Course Superintendent Lucas Pierre and his dedicated team.

Meet the Superintendent: Lucas Pierre

Lucas Pierre has been an integral part of Le Golf National for the past eight years, serving as Superintendent for six of those years. With a strong background in turfgrass management from Ohio State University, Lucas has previously held positions as an assistant at Le Golf National and has a wealth of experience in hosting prestigious tournaments including the Ryder Cup, French Open, and World Amateur.

Course Overview

Course Architect: Hubert Chesneau and Robert von Hagge (1990), with renovations by European Golf Design (2015) Par: Men: 36-35—71 / Women: 36-36—72 Yardage: Men: 7,174 yards (6,557 meters) / Women: 6,374 yards (5,829 meters) Average Green Size: 6,458 to 8,611 sq. ft. (600 to 800 m²) Total Property Acres: 343 (139 hectares) Fairways: 24.7 acres (10 hectares) Rough: 86.4 acres (35 hectares) Sand Bunkers: 51 Water Hazards: 16 (in play on 10 holes)

Turfgrass Management

• Greens: Poa / creeping bentgrass at .118-197” (3.2-3.4 mm)
• Collars and Approaches: Ryegrass / fescue at .275-.315” (7-8 mm)
• Tees and Fairways: Ryegrass / fescue at .315-.394” (8-10 mm)
• Rough: Ryegrass / fescue at varying heights of 2.5" (63 mm), 3.3” (83 mm), and 4.7” (120 mm)

Course Highlights and Challenges

Le Golf National offers a mix of challenging features and stunning vistas. This year, the maintenance team has added new sand to almost every bunker and dealt with significant frost and temperature swings. The course, situated at nearly 6,000 feet, requires special care due to its unique climate and minimal summer rainfall, relying heavily on wetting agents. Moreover, the team is tackling issues with pocket gophers, voles, and moles.

Environmental Stewardship

Le Golf National prides itself on its commitment to environmental sustainability, holding a Geo certification silver award for biodiversity. The course maintenance team is transitioning to nearly full electric equipment, currently at 90%, reflecting their dedication to reducing their carbon footprint.

A Historical Venue

Le Golf National is not only a premier golfing venue but also steeped in history. The lefthand side of No. 14 features La Porte de Merantais, one of the original gates of Versailles castle land. The course's construction was an impressive feat, involving 300 trucks per day of materials from downtown Paris for three years to add elevation to the flat farmland.

Join us in celebrating this grand event, where the world's top golfers will compete for Olympic glory on one of the finest courses in the world. Stay tuned for an unforgettable week of exceptional golf in the heart of France!

Peeling Back the Turf: Barracuda Championship at Tahoe Mountain Club

This week we have the Barracuda Championship at Tahoe Mountain Club, a premier event on the PGA TOUR taking place from July 18-21, 2024, in the stunning setting of Truckee, California. This year's tournament promises to be a thrilling showcase of top-tier golf, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Hosted at the renowned Old Greenwood course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, the championship will feature a challenging layout and pristine conditions meticulously maintained by the dedicated team led by Director of Agronomy, Joe Valente. Get ready for an exciting week of golf at one of the tour's most picturesque and demanding venues!

Meet the Director of Agronomy

Joe Valente, GCSAA

• Years as GCSAA Member: 10
• Years at Tahoe Mountain Club: 13 (2 as director)
• Years as a Superintendent: 6
• Previous Courses: The Golf Club at Gray’s Crossing
• Hometown: Franklin, Massachusetts
• Education: St. Joseph’s of Maine / UMass Amherst

Course Details

• Par: 71 (35-36)
• Yardage: 7,480
• Stimpmeter: 11
• Average Green Size: 5,300 sq. ft.
• Acres of Fairway: 32
• Acres of Rough: 55
• Number of Sand Bunkers: 95
• Number of Water Hazards: 6
• Soil Conditions: Native mountain soils, rocky
• Water Sources: Well, aquifer
• Drainage Conditions: Good

Key Personnel

• Assistant Superintendent (Old Greenwood): Brad Luttrell
• Superintendent (Gray’s Crossing): Dave Martin
• Assistant Superintendent (Gray’s Crossing): Colin Lee
• Head Mechanic: Eli Fraser
• Director of Golf: Travis Alley
• Number of Employees: 17
• Number of Tournament Volunteers: 26
• Golf Course Dog: Louis, 5-year-old Vizsla

Turfgrass

• Greens: Bentgrass / Poa annua (.100”)
• Collars: Bentgrass / Poa annua (.350”)
• Approaches: Bentgrass / Poa annua (.350”)
• Tees: Bentgrass / Poa annua (.360”)
• Fairways: Bentgrass / Poa annua (.360”)
• Rough: Bluegrass (2.5”)

Course Architect

• Architect: Jack Nicklaus (2004)

Social Media

• Superintendent: @JoeValente12
• Tournament: @CudaChamp
• GCSAA: @GCSAA

Additional Notes

• Bunker Renovations: New sand has been added to almost every bunker.
• Ice Removal: Ice was removed from greens twice this year, just before Christmas and on February 1.
• Elevation: The course is just below 6,000 feet; frost can occur every month of the summer, and temperature swings of 50 degrees are common.
• Rainfall: The course receives little to no rain in the summers; wetting agents are essential.
• Wildlife Challenges: Pocket gophers, voles, and moles are significant problems.
• Maintenance: In 2020, banks on water edges on holes 10, 11, 14, and 15 were shaved to primary cut.

FULL TOURNAMENT FACT SHEET:  CLICK HERE

Peeling Back the Turf at TPC Deere Run: A Look Behind the Scenes of the John Deere Classic

As the sun rises over TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois, preparations for the 2024 John Deere Classic are in full swing. This annual PGA TOUR event, scheduled from July 4-7, promises exciting golf action and a showcase of the meticulous work that goes into maintaining one of the tour's most esteemed courses. At the heart of these efforts is Jonathan Graham, a dedicated member of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) for 11 years and the superintendent at TPC Deere Run for two years.

Meet the Grass Master: Jonathan Graham

Jonathan Graham’s journey in golf course management began at TPC San Antonio as a senior assistant, eventually leading him to TPC Deere Run. Over his seven years here, including two as superintendent, Jonathan has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence. His expertise ensures that the course meets the high standards expected by the PGA TOUR and provides an exceptional experience for both players and spectators.

Supporting Jonathan is a team of skilled professionals, including Assistant Superintendents Jarrett Chapman and Evan Sedlack, Equipment Manager Bruce Phillipson, Irrigation Foreman Alex Johnson, and Landscape Foreman Lyndsay Buckley. Together, they work tirelessly to prepare the course for the tournament, supported by 22 employees and an additional 35 volunteers during the event.

Course Design and Setup

Designed by D.A. Weibring and opened in 2000, TPC Deere Run spans 400 acres of beautifully landscaped terrain. The course features 28 acres of fairways, 120 acres of rough, 76 sand bunkers, and three water hazards. This year, holes No. 1, 6, 11, and 15 have been narrowed by approximately five feet to enhance the challenge for players.

The course setup for the tournament includes a par-71 layout with a yardage of 7,289 yards. The greens, averaging 5,500 square feet, are meticulously maintained with L-93 bentgrass mowed to a precise height of .100 inches. The fairways and tees, also composed of Southshore bentgrass, are kept at .375 inches, while the rough features a mix of Kentucky bluegrass and fescue at 4 inches.

Turfgrass

• Greens: L-93 bentgrass
• Collars: L-93 bentgrass
• Approaches: Southshore bentgrass
• Tees: Southshore bentgrass
• Fairways: Southshore bentgrass
• Rough: Kentucky bluegrass / fescue

Turf Management and Environmental Stewardship

Managing a golf course of this caliber requires a deep understanding of agronomy and environmental stewardship. The silty clay soil and surface water sources present unique challenges, particularly concerning drainage, which the team addresses with innovative solutions and careful planning.

Sustainability is a key focus for the team at TPC Deere Run. The course’s history includes land uses by Native Americans, coal mining, and the Hewitt family’s Arabian horse-raising endeavors. Today, maintaining the balance between preserving the natural environment and providing a world-class golf experience is paramount.

The Broader Impact

The work done by Jonathan Graham and his team extends beyond the confines of TPC Deere Run. The GCSAA, headquartered in Lawrence, Kansas, plays a vital role in advancing the profession of golf course management. With 20,000 members in over 78 countries, the association provides education, information, and representation, fostering the growth and vitality of golf worldwide.

As the John Deere Classic unfolds, spectators and players alike will witness not only top-tier golf but also the result of countless hours of dedicated work by the TPC Deere Run team. From the precise mowing of greens to the strategic narrowing of fairways, every detail reflects the commitment to excellence that defines the GCSAA and its members.

Social Media

• Superintendent: @TPCDeereRunAGR
• Course: @TPCDeereRun
• Tournament: @JDCLASSIC
• GCSAA: @GCSAA

FULL TOURNAMENT FACT SHEET:  CLICK HERE

A New Chapter at the Rocket Mortgage Classic: Detroit Golf Club Gears Up for 2024

As we approach the 2024 Rocket Mortgage Classic, anticipation is mounting at Detroit Golf Club. This renowned PGA TOUR event, set to take place from June 27-30, promises an exciting week of golf on one of Michigan’s most historic courses. Under the expert guidance of Director of Agronomy Sam Moynihan, GCSAA, the course is prepared to challenge and delight both players and spectators.

Meet the Director of Agronomy

Sam Moynihan, a dedicated member of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) for 7 years, took on the role of Director of Agronomy at Detroit Golf Club on April 3, 2023. Despite being relatively new to the position, Moynihan brings a wealth of experience from prestigious courses such as Caves Valley, Muirfield Village, and Los Angeles Country Club. An alumnus of West Virginia University, Moynihan’s expertise is instrumental in maintaining the high standards of the course.

The Team Behind the Scenes

Supporting Moynihan is a dedicated team of golf professionals:

• Adam LaFrance: North Course Superintendent
• Kenny Egler: South Course Superintendent (40 years)
• Steve Addis: Construction Superintendent (30 years)
• North Course Assistants: Mike Mosquera, Richard Juvancic, Nate Voss
• Tim Travis: Equipment Manager
• Golf Course Dog: Maya, a 1-year-old golden retriever

This experienced team of professionals works tirelessly to ensure the course remains in impeccable condition.

Course History and Design

Detroit Golf Club, designed by the legendary Donald Ross in 1916, has undergone renovations by renowned architects such as Robert Trent Jones, Arthur Hills, and Bruce Hepner. A significant renovation by Tyler Rae is planned for 2025. The course layout includes routing changes for the tournament, incorporating various holes from both the North and South courses to create a unique and challenging setup.

Turfgrass Specifications

Maintaining the pristine condition of Detroit Golf Club requires meticulous attention to detail. Here are the turfgrass specifications for the tournament:

• Greens: Bentgrass/Poa annua, cut to .100”
• Collars: Bentgrass/Poa annua, cut to .350”
• Approaches: Bentgrass/Poa annua, cut to .350”
• Tees: Bentgrass/Poa annua, cut to .375”
• Fairways: Bentgrass/Poa annua, cut to .375”
• Rough: Bluegrass mix, maintained at 4”

These specifications ensure that the course provides a fair and challenging playing surface for the competitors.

Tournament Set-Up

• Par: 72 (36-36)
• Yardage: 7,370 yards
• Average Green Size: 5,150 sq. ft.
• Total Property Acres: 200 managed
• Acres of Fairway: 30
• Acres of Rough: 75
• Number of Sand Bunkers: 87
• Number of Water Hazards: 1
• Number of Holes with Water in Play: 1

The course features clay loam soil and relies on city water sources. Despite poor natural drainage conditions, the team’s expertise ensures optimal playability.

Additional Notes

• The North Course will undergo a full renovation in 2025, including greens, tees, and bunkers.
• Routing changes for the tournament include playing from North No. 1 tee box to South No. 1 green for Tournament No. 3.
• The No. 11 and No. 12 greens were resodded in May 2023 after being vandalized, ensuring they are in perfect condition for the tournament.
• Average fairway widths are 30 yards, providing a fair challenge for all players.

As the Rocket Mortgage Classic draws near, the team at Detroit Golf Club is ready to deliver another memorable tournament. Under Sam Moynihan’s leadership, the course is set to showcase its beauty and challenge to the world. Stay tuned for an exciting week of golf at one of the PGA TOUR’s standout events.

For more detailed insights and behind-the-scenes stories, follow the tournament and course updates on social media:

• Director of Agronomy: @sam_moynihan
• Course: @DGCGolfClub
• Tournament: @RocketClassic

2024 Travelers Championship: TPC River Highlands Ready for Action

As the 2024 Travelers Championship approaches, excitement is building at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut. This prestigious PGA TOUR event, held from June 20-23, promises to deliver thrilling golf on one of the tour's most iconic courses. Under the expert management of Jason Cannata, GCSAA, the course is in prime condition to host some of the world's best golfers.

Meet the Grass Master

Jason Cannata, a dedicated member of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) for 13 years, has been with TPC River Highlands for 14 years. This year marks his first as superintendent, having stepped into the role on June 3, 2023. Cannata's extensive experience includes positions as an assistant at the Golf Club of Avon and New Haven Country Club. A proud alumnus of the University of Connecticut, Cannata brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his role.

The Team Behind the Scenes

Supporting Cannata is a talented team of assistant superintendents: Josh Breiling, Whitton DeVaux, James Kelley, and Chris Salvio (assistant in training). The equipment manager, Robert Martyszczyk, ensures all machinery runs smoothly, while David Corrado, the General Manager and Director of Golf, oversees the facility's operations. Together, this team of 32 employees and 50 tournament volunteers works tirelessly to maintain the course's high standards.

Course History and Design

TPC River Highlands, originally designed by Pete Dye in 1982 and renovated by Bobby Weed in 1989, features unique characteristics and a rich history. The land includes areas that were once a rose farm and an active sand pit near the Connecticut River. The course layout, with its average green size of 5,000 square feet and fairways averaging 30 yards in width, presents a challenging yet fair test for golfers.

Tournament Set-Up

• Par: 70 (35-35)
• Yardage: 6,835 yards
• Greens: Bentgrass/Poa annua mix, cut to .115”
• Collars: Bentgrass/Poa annua, cut to .375”
• Fairways: Bentgrass/Poa annua, cut to .375”
• Rough: Kentucky bluegrass/fescue, maintained at 4”-plus
• Water Hazards: 4
• Holes with Water in Play: 5

The course is well-drained with sandy loam soil and utilizes water from the Connecticut River. The fairways and roughs are meticulously maintained to ensure optimal playing conditions.

Sustainability and Wildlife

TPC River Highlands is committed to environmental stewardship. The maintenance practices focus on sustainability and preserving the natural habitat, which includes providing a safe harbor for local wildlife.

Noteworthy Facts

• The course has hosted numerous Travelers Championships, with some staff members participating in up to 35 events.
• Recent enhancements include new sod on tees and fairway edges, ensuring seamless transitions and top-notch playing surfaces.
• The course dog, Shea, a 4-year-old Labrador retriever, is a beloved member of the maintenance team.

As the Travelers Championship draws near, the anticipation grows for another memorable tournament. Under Jason Cannata's leadership, TPC River Highlands is ready to showcase its beauty and challenge to the world. Stay tuned for an exciting week of golf at one of the PGA TOUR's standout events.

For more detailed insights and behind-the-scenes stories, follow the tournament and course updates on social media:

• Superintendent: @TPCRHAgronomy
• Course: @TPCRH
• Tournament: @TravelersChamp

FULL TOURNMENT FACT SHEET:  CLICK HERE

Peeling Back the Turf - The U.S. Open Returns to Pinehurst No. 2

This week, Pinehurst No. 2 in Pinehurst, North Carolina, will once again be the epicenter of the golfing world as it hosts the 2024 U.S. Open from June 13-16. This historic course, known for its rich tradition and challenging layout, will test the mettle of the best golfers from around the globe. Under the meticulous care of Bob Farren, CGCS, and his dedicated team, Pinehurst No. 2 is prepared to deliver an unforgettable tournament experience.

Meet the Grass Master: Bob Farren, CGCS

Bob Farren, a stalwart in golf course management, has been a GCSAA member for an impressive 45 years and has spent 42 of those years at Pinehurst. His deep-rooted connection with the course and his vast experience have been instrumental in maintaining the high standards synonymous with Pinehurst No. 2.

Joining Farren is John Jeffreys, the Course No. 2 Superintendent, who has been with Pinehurst for 25 years and in his current role for the last decade. A North Carolina State University alumnus, Jeffreys has been integral in preparing the course for major events, including the U.S. Open.

Key Personnel and Operations

The team responsible for Pinehurst No. 2's pristine condition includes Kevin Robinson, CGCS, Operations Manager, and assistant superintendents Eric Mabie, David Chroback, and Andrea Salzman. Equipment Manager Rob Vaughn and PGA Professional Matt Barksdale also play crucial roles. With a workforce of 40 employees and 60 tournament volunteers, the team is well-equipped to handle the demands of a major championship.

Pinehurst No. 2: A Donald Ross Masterpiece

Designed by the legendary Donald Ross in 1907 and meticulously restored by Rees Jones in 1999 and Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw between 2009-2011, Pinehurst No. 2 is renowned for its strategic complexity and natural beauty. This year's U.S. Open will be the first played on the course's new Champion ultradwarf bermudagrass greens, a change made following the 2014 U.S. Open and U.S. Women's Open.

Course Statistics:

• Par: 35-35—70
• Yardage: 7,543
• Average Green Size: 6,500 sq. ft.
• Total Property Acres: 220
• Acres of Fairway: 50
• Acres of Rough: 40 native sandscapes
• Number of Sand Bunkers: 117
• Number of Water Hazards: 1
• Number of Holes with Water in Play: 1
• Soil Conditions: Sandy loam
• Water Sources: Spring-fed lake
• Drainage Conditions: Excellent

Turfgrass and Course Details

The transition to Champion ultradwarf bermudagrass greens marks a significant evolution in Pinehurst No. 2's storied history. This choice of turf ensures optimal playing conditions in the often warm and humid North Carolina climate.

Turfgrass Details:

• Greens: Champion ultradwarf bermudagrass
• Collars: Tifway 419 bermudagrass
• Approaches: Common and 419 bermuda
• Tees: Common and 419 bermuda
• Fairways: Common and 419 bermuda
• Rough: Sandy native areas with wiregrass

The course features fairway widths in landing areas between 35-45 yards, demanding precision and strategic shot placement from competitors.

Environmental Stewardship

Pinehurst No. 2 is not just a premier golfing venue; it is also a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Safe Harbor for the Red Cockaded Woodpecker, showcasing the club's commitment to environmental sustainability.

Notable Facts and Achievements

Pinehurst No. 2 holds the unique distinction of being the first facility to host both the U.S. Open and U.S. Women's Open in the same year (2014) and in consecutive weeks. This tradition of excellence continues with the 2024 U.S. Open, promising to be a landmark event in golf history.

As the 2024 U.S. Open unfolds this week, Pinehurst No. 2 will stand as a testament to the timeless allure of championship golf. Under the expert guidance of Bob Farren, CGCS, and his dedicated team, the course is set to provide a challenging and unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike. The meticulous preparation and rich heritage of Pinehurst No. 2 ensure that this U.S. Open will be a highlight of the golfing calendar, showcasing the best of the sport on one of its most storied stages.

READ TOURNAMENT FACTS:  CLICK HERE

Peeling Back the Turf at MVGC 

Dublin, Ohio • June 6-9, 2024

As the 2024 Memorial Tournament approaches, all eyes are on Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio. This prestigious PGA TOUR event, scheduled for June 6-9, promises to be a spectacular display of golfing prowess and meticulous course management. Under the expert stewardship of Chad Mark, GCSAA Director of Grounds, Muirfield Village is primed to challenge the world's best golfers with its immaculate setup and strategic design.

Meet the Grass Master: Chad Mark

Chad Mark, a GCSAA member for 26 years, has been at the helm of Muirfield Village for the past eight years. With a rich background that includes previous roles at Inverness Club, Sand Ridge Golf Club, and Kirtland Country Club, Mark brings a wealth of experience to his position. A graduate of Ohio State University, he has overseen the Memorial Tournament eight times and hosted the 2020 Workday Charity Open. His commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of course preparation.

Key Personnel and Infrastructure

Supporting Mark is a dedicated team, including assistant superintendents Drake Cleghorn, Mitchell Cofer, Seamus Foley, and Connor Quigley. The equipment manager, Bill Claytor, and tournament operations assistant, Eric Perkins, play crucial roles in maintaining the high standards expected at Muirfield Village. With 50 employees and 35 tournament volunteers, the club is well-equipped to handle the demands of a major tournament.

The Course: A Masterpiece by Jack Nicklaus

Originally designed by Jack Nicklaus in 1974 and renovated by him in 2020, Muirfield Village is renowned for its challenging layout and pristine conditions. The par-72 course spans 7,569 yards and features 68 sand bunkers and 13 water hazards. The average green size is 5,000 square feet, ensuring that precision and strategy are paramount.

Course Statistics:

• Par: 36-36—72
• Yardage: 7,569
• Average Green Size: 5,000 sq. ft.
• Acres of Fairway: 24
• Acres of Rough: 110
• Number of Sand Bunkers: 68
• Number of Water Hazards: 13
• Number of Holes with Water in Play: 13
• Soil Conditions: Clay
• Water Sources: Pond, well
• Drainage Conditions: Fair

Turfgrass and Mowing Heights

Maintaining the turf to tournament standards is a significant task, and Muirfield Village excels in this regard. The course features bentgrass on its greens, collars, approaches, and tees, with the fairways also predominantly bentgrass. The rough is a mix of Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescue.

Turfgrass Details:

• Greens: Bentgrass, mowed to 0.090”
• Collars: Bentgrass, mowed to 0.275”
• Approaches: Bentgrass, mowed to 0.275”
• Tees: Bentgrass, mowed to 0.275”
• Fairways: Bentgrass, mowed to 0.350”
• Rough: Kentucky bluegrass/ryegrass/fescue, mowed to 4”

Notable Features and Challenges

The course has undergone several enhancements to maintain its status as a premier golfing destination. Noteworthy updates include the relocation of the No. 16 tee 25 yards to the right and the removal of a greenside bunker. Additionally, the maintenance crew now operates from a state-of-the-art facility that opened in October 2023.

The area has experienced higher-than-average rainfall in May, presenting unique challenges for course preparation. Despite this, Mark's team is adept at managing such conditions, ensuring that the course remains in optimal condition for the tournament.

A Family Affair

Chad Mark's dedication to the course extends to his family, with two of his sons working at the club. Notably, Drew Mark is a turf student at Ohio State University, following in his father's footsteps.

Conclusion

The 2024 Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village Golf Club promises to be an event to remember, thanks to the meticulous efforts of Chad Mark and his team. Their dedication to maintaining the course's high standards ensures a challenging and enjoyable experience for players and fans alike. As the tournament approaches, the golfing world eagerly anticipates another exceptional display of skill and strategy at one of the PGA TOUR's most iconic venues.

FULL TOURNAMENT FACT SHEET:  CLICK HERE