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Pinehurst to convert three more courses

By and |  June 4, 2013

Pinehurst Resort & Country Club has announced it will convert the greens on three more courses to ultradwarf bermudagrass in an effort to extend championship conditions throughout the year, especially during the heat of summer.

This year, Pinehurst will convert the greens on No. 8, which is currently closed and will reopen July 24, and the greens on No. 3, which is scheduled to close Aug. 4 and reopen Oct. 4. Beginning July 2014, after it hosts the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open, it will convert the greens on No. 2.

In 2012, Pinehurst successfully converted No. 1’s greens and said Thistle Dhu, the new putting course that features ultradwarf bermudagrass, has become very popular since opening in August 2012.

“We’re always looking to enhance the Pinehurst golf experience, and these conversions will allow our members and guests to experience championship conditions for even longer portions of the year and regardless of weather,” Pinehurst President Don Padgett II said.

The three courses will be converted to Champion ultradwarf bermudagrass, which has been installed throughout the southeast and on more than 530 courses in 16 states. This durable strain maintains high density during extreme temperatures and at low mowing heights, delivering smooth, consistent putting surfaces throughout the year, according to Pinehurst. The ultradwarf variety provides top-quality conditions on an everyday basis and allows fine-tuning for elite championship conditions when needed.

The turf will be planted using the “no-till” process and will not require excavation of the greens or any changes in the contours. And because ultradwarf bermudagrass greens are installed with sprigging rather than seeding and thrive in the heat, course No. 1 reopened for play in 60 days.

“Bermudagrass has improved significantly over the last several years with the development of the ultradwarf varieties and establishment of best maintenance practices. They have become a great option for the North Carolina climate,” Pinehurst Director of Grounds and Golf Course Maintenance Bob Farren said. “Our members and guests have been thrilled with the results on No. 1 and Thistle Dhu, as we’ve been able to sustain firm greens with a smooth, fast and consistent roll. We’re excited to be able to maintain those conditions on three more courses.”

Pinehurst No. 2 is among several major tournament sites to convert to bermudagrass. Atlanta Athletic Club converted before the 2011 PGA Championship, TOUR Championship site East Lake Golf Club converted in 2008, and Quail Hollow Club will convert this summer in advance of the 2017 PGA Championship.

This article is tagged with , and posted in Industry News

About the Author: Kelly Limpert

Kelly Limpert is the former digital media content producer for North Coast Media.


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