The Preserve Golf Club finishes renovation in time for Stocker Cup

The Preserve Golf Club, located in Carmel, Calif., completed its renovation in time to host the 25th annual Stocker Cup.

The Tom Fazio course features new fairways, bunker design and tees that have improved course conditioning, strengthened shot-making, and reduced water consumption.

The most significant aspect of the recently completed renovation was changing The Preserve’s fairways from bent grass to Santa Ana Hybrid Bermudagrass. The new fairways will create firmer and faster playing conditions throughout the year, while providing a consistently superior playing surface and new elements to strategy and shot-making, the course said in a recent press release.

In addition, The Preserve’s new fairways are projected to require approximately 30 percent less water. The United States Golf Association recently highlighted the Preserve’s fairway renovation for improving playing conditions and conserving water.

Every bunker has been reshaped and reconditioned. Also, additional tee boxes have been created on many holes to provide new shot choices and challenges for both low and higher handicap golfers.

“These improvements to the golf course have created an even more exciting and enjoyable experience, consistent with The Preserve Golf Club being among the top courses in the country,” said John Pietro, the director of golf at The Preserve. “In terms of conditioning, aesthetics, and shot-making, The Preserve has never been better. We are excited to see how the competitors in the Stocker Cup handle the changes. This should be one of the best years in tournament history.”

The Stocker Cup was founded in 1991 to honor the memory of Peter Stocker, recognized as the man behind the creation of Santa Lucia Preserve. Past champions include Brandt Snedeker, Randy Haag, and two-time defending champion, Brady Exber.

The course is maintained by Superintendent Tim Taagen.

Photos: The Preserve Golf Club