Aging golf courses need revamping
Golf courses are living, breathing things that are constantly changing day in and day out, said Tom Clark, a past president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects, during the AGSCA’s Remodeling University program at Aronimink Golf Club in Philadelphia. Periodic updates are necessary to address poor playing conditions, conform to players’ abilities, increase revenues, or host higher-level competitive events.
In Philadelphia there is more of a need to remodel because of the age of many of the courses, Clark said. By working with the appropriate professionals to evaluate the features, aesthetics and infrastructure of a golf course, decision-makers can learn what needs to be done. Through proper planning, any course can show dramatic improvement.
Remodeling is an inevitable part of the evolution of a good golf course, according to Rick Lohman of The Toro Co., the primary sponsor of Remodeling University.
Due to general deterioration and wear, every golf course will eventually have to go through some type of remodeling project, Lohman said. The goal of Remodeling University is to educate golf course owners and managers so they are better prepared for any project they encounter and point out the simple mistakes that can derail remodeling projects.
The university provides insights into the planning process, from realizing that a course needs renovating to breaking ground. Attendees learn about obtaining permits, cost estimates and the design process in which detailed plans and specifications are prepared.
Symposiums feature renowned architects who address a number of remodeling and restoration issues including the Basics, Planning, and Teamwork. The Basics defines needs, establishes a time frame, and reviewing financial and budget considerations and questions every golf course decision-maker should be asking. Planning includes emphasis on the planning process and all steps involved, from obtaining permits to determining the phasing process. Teamwork features roles and responsibilities of golf course architects, superintendents, builders and others.
Donald Ross and Robert Trent Jones Sr., and 12 other leading golf course designers founded the American Society of Golf Course Architects in 1946. It is a nonprofit organization comprised of 150 golf course architects located throughout the United States and Canada. Each member is actively involved in the design of new courses and the renovation of existing layouts, as well as issues affecting the future of the game.