PGA Championship (PGA of America)
Valhalla Golf Club • Louisville, Ky. • May 16-19, 2024

Meet the Grass Master
John Ballard, CGCS, GCSAA, brings over two decades of expertise to Valhalla Golf Club, having served as a superintendent for 25 years. A proud member of the GCSAA for 29 years, Ballard's commitment to excellence is evident in Valhalla's pristine conditions. With previous experience at Audubon CC and the University of Louisville GC, Ballard's leadership ensures the course is championship-ready.

Assisting Ballard are:

• Phil Vineyard, Lead Assistant Superintendent
• Justin Wilt, Front Nine Assistant Superintendent
• Payton Hobby, Back Nine Assistant Superintendent
• Assistants in Training: Ben Nelson, Josh Rippy, Jamie McGaugh, Kyle Sampson, Zach LeGrand, Nate Smith
• Jason Newman, Equipment Manager
• Kyle Cramer, PGA Professional

Course Highlights
Designed by Jack Nicklaus in 1986, Valhalla Golf Club has undergone significant renovations, including rebuilt greens in 2011 and recent resurfacing of tees and fairways to Zeon Zoysia in 2021. Hosting multiple PGA Championships and Ryder Cups, Valhalla stands as a testament to championship golf.

Tournament Set-up

• Par: 35-36—71
• Yardage: 7,609
• Stimpmeter: 13

Course Statistics

• Average Green Size: 5,000 sq. ft.
• Total Property Acres: 485
• Acres of Fairway: 23
• Acres of Rough: 60
• Number of Sand Bunkers: 62
• Number of Water Hazards: 5
• Number of Holes Water is in Play: 7

Turfgrass Specifications

• Greens: T1 bentgrass .100”
• Approaches: Zeon zoysiagrass .250”
• Tees: Zeon zoysiagrass .350”
• Fairways: Zeon zoysiagrass .450”
• Rough: Tall fescue / bluegrass mix 4”

Recent Renovations and Enhancements

• Fairway Renovation: Transitioned from bentgrass to Zeon Zoysia in 2021 for sustainability and playability.
• Championship Tee Construction: Added new championship tees on strategic holes, increasing the total yardage to 7,609 yards.
• Aesthetic Changes: Enhanced natural features such as limestone outcroppings and water features for a visually stunning experience.
• Bluegrass Way: Welcoming entrance showcasing Kentucky's beauty and Valhalla's commitment to the community.
• Clubhouse Renovation: A 13-month renovation captures the essence of Kentucky with southern-style architecture and local craftsmanship.
• Agronomy Center: State-of-the-art facility relocation provides an efficient work environment and enhances member experience.

TOUNAMENT FAC SHEET:  CLICK HERE