Celebrating Excellence: The RBC Canadian Open at Hamilton Golf and Country Club

As the 2024 RBC Canadian Open approaches, the spotlight turns to the Hamilton Golf and Country Club in Ancaster, Ontario, and the meticulous work of Golf Course Superintendent Jordan Kitchen, GCSAA. With over a decade of dedication to Hamilton and a passion for excellence, Kitchen and his team are set to deliver a world-class course for this prestigious PGA TOUR event.

Meet the Grass Master: Jordan Kitchen

Jordan Kitchen's journey with Hamilton Golf and Country Club began in 2012 as an intern. His commitment and talent quickly shone through, leading to his current role as Superintendent. With 13 years as a GCSAA member and 12 years at Hamilton, Kitchen has been instrumental in maintaining and enhancing the course. His educational foundation from the University of Guelph has equipped him with the knowledge to excel in his profession.

The Team Behind the Magic

Supporting Kitchen is a dedicated team of professionals who share his vision of excellence. Key personnel include:

• Tracy Fowler, Assistant Superintendent
• Chad Oberle, Assistant Superintendent
• Corey Young, Assistant Superintendent
• Wayne Shaw, Equipment Manager
• Emerson Mahoney, PGA Professional
• Alan Carter, Chief Operating Officer

Together, they manage a staff of 42 employees and 65 tournament volunteers, ensuring every aspect of the course meets the highest standards.

The Course: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Designed by the legendary Harry S. Colt in 1916 and renovated by Martin Ebert in 2019, the Hamilton Golf and Country Club is a testament to timeless design and modern sustainability. The 2019 renovation included the reconstruction of tees, bunkers, and greens across all 27 holes, installation of a new irrigation system, and enhancements to the practice areas. These updates earned the course the Golf Digest Best Renovation of the Year award in 2022.

Play for the RBC Canadian Open will be hosted on the West and South courses, presenting a challenging par 70 layout stretching 7,084 yards. The average green size is 6,000 square feet, with a Stimpmeter reading of 11-12, promising fast and true putting surfaces.

Course Statistics and Turfgrass Details

Total Property Acres: 300
Acres of Fairway: 38
Acres of Rough: 110
Number of Sand Bunkers: 72
Water Hazards: Serpentine Creek

The course features V8 creeping bentgrass on the greens, L93-XD bentgrass on collars and approaches, and a mix of native bentgrass and poa on the tees and fairways. The rough comprises Poa annua, Kentucky bluegrass, and Turf Type tall fescue.

Greens: V8 creeping bentgrass - Height: 0.100"
Collars: L93-XD bentgrass - Height: 0.250"
Approaches: L93-XD bentgrass - Height: 0.300"
Tees: Native bentgrass / poa - Height: 0.350"
Fairways: Native bentgrass / poa / seeded with L93-XD bentgrass - Height: 0.450"
Rough: Poa annua / Kentucky bluegrass / Turf Type tall fescue - Height: 4"

Notable Aspects and Achievements

This year's RBC Canadian Open is poised to benefit from favorable weather conditions, with the area experiencing a mild winter and early spring. Kitchen's expertise and familiarity with the course, coupled with his experience from previous tournaments, ensure the event will be a memorable one for players and spectators alike.

Fun Fact: Course Dog

Adding a touch of charm to the course is Jada, a 3-year-old German short-haired pointer, who is a beloved member of the Hamilton team.

A Tradition of Excellence

Since 1926, the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) has been a cornerstone of the golfing community, providing education, information, and representation to over 20,000 members worldwide. Their mission to serve their members, advance their profession, and enhance communities through the game of golf is exemplified in the meticulous preparation for events like the RBC Canadian Open.

As we look forward to the RBC Canadian Open, we celebrate the dedication and expertise of Jordan Kitchen and his team at Hamilton Golf and Country Club. Their commitment to excellence ensures that this historic course will continue to be a shining example of golfing tradition and modern sustainability.

TOURNAMENT FACT SHEET: CLICK HERE

Charles Schwab Challenge
Colonial Country Club

Grass Master: Rich McIntosh, CGSAA

• GCSAA Member for 14 Years
• 3rd Year at Colonial Country Club
• Previous Courses: Torrey Pines (Superintendent), Muirfield Village (Senior Assistant)
• Hometown: Medina, Ohio
• Education: Ohio State University

Behind the Scenes at Colonial

Assistant Superintendent: Eli Parker
Equipment Manager: Jan Dixon 
Horticulturist: Mark Jones
Director of Golf: Brian Schorsten 

Tournament Set-up

• Par: 35-35 - 70
• Yardage: 7,289 yards
• Stimpmeter: 12-13

Course Statistics

• Average Green Size: 5,000 sq. ft.
• Total Property Acres: 154 Acres
• Fairways: 28 Acres
• Rough: 65 Acres
• Sand Bunkers: 64
• Water Hazards: 4
• Holes Water in Play: 6
• Soil Conditions: Clay
• Water Source: Trinity River
• Drainage: Good

Turfgrass

• Greens: 007XL bentgrass (.100”)
• Collars: TifTuf bermudagrass (.375”)
• Approaches & Tees: TifTuf bermudagrass (.425”)
• Fairways: TifTuf 419 bermudagrass (.425”)
• Rough: TifTuf bermudagrass (2.5”)

Additional Notes

• The 2023 renovation touched every aspect of the course, including new greens, irrigation, drainage systems, and a shift to Bermudagrass on most playing surfaces.
• A cool, wet spring with less sunshine may affect playing conditions with slower growth and potentially softer turf.
• This is the 4th event (2nd in a row) played on bentgrass greens this season.
• Fairway landing areas average 25-30 yards wide.
• Expect fast greens with a reading of 12-13.

TOURNAMNT FACT SHEET:  CLICK HERE

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

Myrtle Beach Classic (PGA TOUR)
The Dunes Golf and Beach Club • Myrtle Beach, S.C. • May 9-12, 2024

Meet the Grass Master
Steve Hamilton, GCSAA, brings over two decades of experience as a superintendent, including hosting the 2014 PGA Professional National Championship. With 28 years as a GCSAA member and a background in Virginia Tech University, Hamilton is dedicated to ensuring The Dunes Golf and Beach Club is primed for the Myrtle Beach Classic.

Assisting Hamilton are:

• Josh Taylor, GCSAA, Superintendent
• Boston Cook, Assistant Superintendent
• Chad Kintzer, Equipment Manager
• Dennis Nicholl, Director of Golf
• Holden Patterson, PGA Professional

Course Highlights
The Dunes Golf and Beach Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. in 1948 and renovated by Rees Jones in various years, offers a challenging layout against the backdrop of Myrtle Beach. Spanning 7,347 yards with a par of 71, the course boasts champion ultradwarf Bermuda greens and meticulously maintained fairways and roughs.

Tournament Set-up

• Par: 35-36--71
• Yardage: 7,347
• Stimpmeter: 11.5-12

Course Statistics

• Average Green Size: 6,000 sq. ft.
• Total Property Acres: 234
• Acres of Fairway: 30
• Acres of Rough: 80
• Number of Sand Bunkers: 72
• Number of Water Hazards: Numerous small ponds, Alligator Alley
• Number of Holes Water is in Play: 6

Turfgrass Specifications

• Greens: Champion ultradwarf Bermuda .100”
• Collars: 419 bermudagrass .250”
• Approaches: 419 bermudagrass .350”
• Tees: Zeon zoysiagrass .350”
• Fairways: Ryegrass overseed .400”
• Rough: Ryegrass overseed 2”

Additional Notes

• Recent renovations included leveling and re-grassing championship tees, rebuilding lake edges, and enhancing practice facilities.
• The Dunes Golf and Beach Club celebrated its 75th anniversary last year, marking its legacy as the second course built along the Grand Strand.

TOURNAMENT FACT SHEET:  CLICK HERE

Wells Fargo Championship (PGA TOUR)

Quail Hollow Club
Charlotte, N.C. • May 9-12, 2024

Meet the Grass Master
Keith C. Wood, GCSAA, spearheads the maintenance efforts at Quail Hollow Club for the Wells Fargo Championship. With 21 years of experience as a superintendent and 28 years as a GCSAA member, Wood brings a wealth of expertise to ensure the course is in optimal condition for the tournament.

Assisting Wood are:

• Carson Shaw, Assistant Superintendent
• Noah Pfeiffer, Assistant Superintendent
• Thomas Heap, Assistant Superintendent
• Jason Vail, Equipment Manager
• Jared Gamm, Director of Horticulture
• Preston Floyd, Business Operations
• Scott Davenport, PGA Professional

Course Highlights
Quail Hollow Club, designed by George Cobb in 1961 and renovated by Tom Fazio in 1997, 2013, and 2016, offers a challenging yet picturesque setting for the Wells Fargo Championship. Stretching over 7,558 yards with a par of 71, the course features meticulously maintained greens, strategically placed bunkers, and lush fairways.

Turfgrass Specifications

• Greens: Poa trivialis overseed .125”
• Approaches: Poa trivialis overseed .250”
• Tees: Perennial ryegrass overseed .300”
• Fairways: Perennial rye overseed .350”
• Rough: Perennial ryegrass overseed 2”

Course Upgrades
During the summer of 2023, Quail Hollow Club underwent essential maintenance and upgrades to enhance the playing experience. Highlights include:

• Resurfacing greens with Tif Eagle Bermudagrass
• Laser leveling and squaring up tees with Tahoma Bermudagrass
• Rebuilding bunkers with new drainage and bunker liners
• Adding trees strategically across the course for aesthetic and strategic purposes

Tournament Operations
To improve tournament operations and enhance player and spectator experience, Quail Hollow Club implemented several modifications, including:

• Installation of a new service road between the 10th and 18th holes to alleviate congestion
• Widening of paths around certain areas to improve circulation
• Modifications to the Green Mile service road for safety and efficiency

Follow along on Twitter/X:  @WellsFargoGolf & @kcwood74

GCSAA TOURNAMENT FACT SHEET:  CLICK HERE

THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson (PGA TOUR)
TPC Craig Ranch • McKinney, Texas • May 2-5, 2024

Meet the Grass Master
James Osborne, GCSAA, leads the greenkeeping efforts at TPC Craig Ranch for The CJ CUP Byron Nelson. With 10 years of experience as a superintendent and 24 years as a GCSAA member, Osborne brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to ensuring the course is in prime condition for the tournament.

Assisting Osborne are:

• Dakota Brown, Senior Assistant Superintendent
• Chase Shipley, Assistant Superintendent
• Brogan Welsh, Assistant Superintendent
• Carlos DeJesus, Equipment Manager

Course Overview
Crafted by renowned architect Tom Weiskopf in 2004, TPC Craig Ranch presents a challenging yet picturesque layout for The CJ CUP Byron Nelson. Stretching over 7,414 yards with a par of 71, the course features strategically placed hazards and meticulously manicured greens.

Turfgrass Specifications

• Greens: Bentgrass .100”
• Tees: Bermudagrass .350”
• Fairways: Zoysiagrass .450”
• Rough: Bermudagrass 2.75”

Environmental Commitment With Rowlett Creek weaving through the property and crossing 14 of the 18 holes, TPC Craig Ranch is not only a premier golf destination but also a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Osborne and his team are dedicated to preserving and enhancing the natural beauty of the course.

TOURNAMENT FACT SHEET:  CLICK HERE

Zurich Classic (PGA TOUR)
TPC Louisiana • Avondale, La. • April 25-28, 2024

Meet the Grass Master

 At the helm of TPC Louisiana for the Zurich Classic is Director of Golf Course Operations, Tyler McCool, GCSAA. With a 14-year membership in the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) and seven years dedicated to perfecting the TPC Louisiana course, McCool brings a wealth of expertise to ensure a top-tier golfing experience.

Assisting McCool are:

• Matthew Lambert, Assistant Superintendent
• David Pons, Equipment Manager
• Luke Farabaugh, General Manager
• Alex Abbruzza, PGA Professional

Course Overview

Designed by the legendary Pete Dye in 2004, TPC Louisiana offers a challenging yet picturesque setting for the Zurich Classic. With a par of 72 and stretching over 7,435 yards, the course promises to test the skills of the world's top golfers.

Turfgrass Specifications:

• Greens: Poa trivialis overseed .100”
• Collars: Poa trivialis overseed .260”
• Approaches: Celebration bermuda .400”
• Tees: TifSport bermudagrass .400”
• Fairways: Celebration bermudagrass .400”
• Rough: TifSport bermudagrass 2”

Environmental Notes

Despite facing significant weather challenges, including a drought in the summer and fall of 2023, TPC Louisiana remains committed to its environmental stewardship. The area has seen 24” of rain, only half of the previous year's rainfall. Notable changes include the clearing of a large wooded area left of No. 8 to enhance spectator views and the addition of 15 Cypress trees to the area. TPC Louisiana holds an Audubon International Certification, showcasing its dedication to sustainability.

Follow the tournament updates on Twitter: @Zurich_Classic, @TPCLouisiana, & @Tyler_McCool

Tournament Fact Sheet:  CLICK HERE

Peeling Back the Turf on Golf's Grandest Events

2024 Corales Puntacana Championship

April 18-21, 2024

Meet the Grass Masters

Heading the greens at the stunning Corales Golf Course for the Corales Puntacana Championship is none other than Julio Diaz, GCSAA. With an illustrious 24-year tenure as a superintendent and deep expertise cultivated from overseeing prestigious courses like Marriott at Wind Watch and North Shore, Diaz brings a wealth of experience to the table.

Assisting Diaz in maintaining the course's impeccable condition are a skilled team of professionals.

Wilkin Castillo, Assistant Superintendent

Luiggi Abreu, Assistant Superintendent

Amauri Castillo. Equipment Manager

Course Overview

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Punta Cana, the Corales Golf Course presents a challenging yet breathtaking setting for the Corales Puntacana Championship. With a par of 72 and stretching over 7,670 yards, this course offers a true test of skill for golfers worldwide.

Turfgrass

Greens: Supreme paspalum .100”

Collars: Supreme paspalum .300”

Approaches: Supreme paspalum .350”

Tees: Supreme paspalum .225”

Fairways: Supreme paspalum .450”

Rough: Supreme paspalum 1.75-2”

Environmental Commitment

Beyond its championship layout, Corales Golf Course stands out for its commitment to environmental stewardship. As part of the Puntacana Ecological Foundation program, the course actively contributes to the conservation of the Ridgway’s Hawk, a native species of Hispaniola Island.

Follow the action on Twitter at @JulioAgronomy and @CoralesChamp.

GCSAA Tournament Fact Sheet:  CLICK HERE

2024 RBC Heritage

April 18-21, 2024

Meet the Grass Masters

Leading the greenkeeping brigade at the iconic Harbour Town Golf Links for the RBC Heritage is none other than Jonathan Wright, GCSAA. With an impressive 15-year tenure as a superintendent and a dedicated 28-year membership with the GCSAA, Wright brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the course.

Assisting Wright in maintaining the course's pristine condition are a dedicated team of professionals, including Assistant Superintendents Kelly Shaw, Ian Seal, Shamus White, and Daniel Haller, alongside Equipment Manager Nathan Leach.

Course Highlights

Situated in the heart of Hilton Head, South Carolina, Harbour Town Golf Links offers a challenging yet picturesque setting for the RBC Heritage. With a par of 71 and stretching over 7,213 yards, this course promises an exhilarating experience for golfers and spectators alike.

Turfgrass

Greens: Poa trivialis overseed .115”

Collars: Poa trivialis overseed .325”

Approaches: Perennial rye overseed .325”

Tees: Perennial ryegrass overseed .325”

Fairways: Perennial rye overseed .375”

Rough: Perennial ryegrass overseed 1.25”

Additional Notes

Harbour Town's rough has been reduced from last year's cut of 2.5”, providing a new challenge for players.

Recent course improvements include the addition of a new pro tee on No. 7 before last year's tournament and new tees on No. 2, 5, and 17, along with the inclusion of a palm tree at the No. 10 greenside bunker ahead of the 2022 event.

Stay updated on Twitter with @jwrightH, @Harbour_Town, and @RBC_Heritage.

GCSAA Tournament Fact Sheet:  CLICK HERE

Peeling Back the Turf on Golf's Grandest Events

2024 Valero Texas Open
April 4-7, 2024

Meet the Grass Masters

At the helm of the TPC San Antonio, the venue for this year's Valero Texas Open, is Director of Golf Course Operations, Roby Robertson, CGCS, GCSAA. With an impressive 33-year tenure as a superintendent and a wealth of experience at renowned courses like TPC Scottsdale and TPC Eagle Trace, Robertson brings a top-notch level of expertise to the table.

Assisting Robertson are a dedicated team of professionals including Superintendent Logan Behrens and a group of talented assistants who ensure that the course is in pristine condition for the tournament.

Alejandro Oropez & Nathan Steinbeck, Oaks Assistants
Rick Pryor & Adrienne Young, Canyons Assistants
Sam Baldea, Equipment Manager

Course Overview

The TPC San Antonio Oaks course, designed by the legendary Greg Norman, provides a challenging yet picturesque backdrop for the Valero Texas Open. With a par of 72 and stretching over 7,438 yards (4^th Longest on TOUR), the course offers a true test of skill for the world's top golfers.

Turfgrass

Greens: Poa trivialis overseed .110”

Collars: Poa trivialis overseed .220”

Approaches: Perennial rye / fescue .400”

Tees: Poa trivialis overseed .300”

Fairways: Perennial rye / fescue .400”

Rough: Perennial rye / fescue 2.25”

Environmental Stewardship

One of the standout features of TPC San Antonio is its stringent Environmental Management Plan, which focuses on protection, sustainability, and management of the environment. Despite facing challenges such as a continuous drought over the past three years, the course remains committed to upholding the highest standards of environmental stewardship.

GCSAA TOURNAMENT FACT SHEET:  CLICK HERE

2024 Masters Tournament
April 11-14, 2024

Meet the Grass Masters

At Augusta National Golf Club, the stage is set for golfing greatness under the guidance of Senior Director of Agronomy, William B. Owen III, GCSAA. With an impressive 27-year tenure as a superintendent and a legacy spanning 37 years at Augusta National, Owen's expertise ensures that the course is primed to challenge and inspire the world's finest golfers.

Assisting Owen are a team of dedicated professionals, including Director of Agronomy Brent Seyer and a cadre of assistants who work tirelessly to uphold the immaculate standards of Augusta National.

Scott Waddell, Assistant Superintendent
Connor Castor, Assistant Superintendent
Justin Henderson, Irrigation Senior Manager
Fred Hartenstein, Equipment Manager

Course Overview

Spanning 7,545 yards (3^rd Longest on TOUR) with a par of 72, Augusta National presents a formidable challenge for even the most seasoned professionals. With its undulating fairways, strategically placed hazards, and lightning-fast greens, the course demands precision and finesse from all who dare to tread its hallowed grounds.

Turfgrass

Greens: Bentgrass .125”

Collars: Bentgrass .250”

Approaches: Ryegrass overseed .312”

Tees: Ryegrass overseed .312”

Fairways: Ryegrass overseed .375”

Second Cut: Ryegrass overseed 1.375”

A Tradition Unlike Any Other

As we prepare to witness the drama and excitement of the 2024 Masters Tournament, let us celebrate the rich tapestry of tradition, excellence, and camaraderie that defines this storied event. From the azaleas in bloom to the roar of the patrons, the Masters Tournament is a spectacle unlike any other – a testament to the enduring allure of the game of golf.

In conclusion, as the world's greatest golfers converge upon Augusta National, let us embrace the spirit of the Masters and revel in the majesty of this timeless tradition. Here's to another unforgettable chapter in the annals of golfing history at the 2024 Masters Tournament!

GCSAA TOURNAMENT FACT SHEET: CLICK HERE

Scott Orndorff promoted to Director of Business for HydraSmart, Inc.

RICHMOND, VA; SEPTEMBER 13, 2023 - HydraSmart, Inc, a W.S. Connelly company, announced today that Scott Orndorff has been promoted to Director of Business Operations. Scott will be responsible for managing the entire business unit, which includes working closely with HydraSmart owners from across the country to develop and implement growth strategies. In addition, Scott will work very closely with Superintendents, Grounds Managers and Professional Applicators to learn, then develop new technologies to enhance the HydraSmart portfolio.

“Scott has been a key part of our success and we are thrilled to promote him to this important position,” said Kevin Connelly, President of W.S. Connelly & Companies. “Scott joined our company in 2016 as a District Sales Representative and quickly rose to several committee and supervisory positions, including multiple responsibilities developing HydraSmart strategies.”

Scott will serve in his current role as a district sales representative through the remainder of fall and winter of 2023 / 2024. He will begin his new Director role on February 1, 2024.

About W.S. Connelly

Founded in the 1950s as a simple feed ‘n’ seed business, W.S. Connelly expanded across the decades to parent multiple companies serving turf and horticulture professionals, erosion control contractors, engineers, and resellers.

 

About HydraSmart

High-tech meets high-growth and strength in Hydrasmart’s proprietary liquid fertilizers, spray adjuvants, and soil surfactants. Our nationally recognized, university proven, scientifically manufactured solutions are developed on the principles of integrity, transparency, safety and the highest performance.

Media Contact:

Dani Fink

Marketing Assistant

804-744-5445

dani@wsconnelly.com