In North Carolina, the state that many (and not just those who live there) believe to be the best US state for golf, the work of British golf course architects Donald Steel and Jonathan Gaunt has been praised by a noted authority.
Greensboro Country Club’s Farm course, previously unranked, received a complete makeover from Steel and Gaunt. As a result, it won Best New Course honours from the influential North Carolina Golf Panel and leapt into the top 100 at No. 37.
In addition Holes #10 and #13 at Greensboro (both par 5s) were named by the Golf Panel as part of its ‘Dream 18’.
Jonathan describes the project thus, “The course is set in mature oak and pine woodland, with dramatic contours, deep valleys and large water features. The new Donald Steel layout has used parts of the site that had otherwise been largely ignored by the course’s original architect, Ellis Maples.
“There are two completely new holes – #5 and #14 – both dramatic par-3’s – both completely different – the former set on a steep hillside in mature woodland and the latter located next to a large lake. There are big changes to 6 other holes and the layout of the remainder has been retained, but remodelled.
“The new course length is 7,400 yards par 72 (35 out, 37 back), 5 x par 5’s, 5 x par 3’s and 8 x par 4’s – a really challenging layout which has opened up vistas to maximise upon views of the lakes and woodland. Added to this is a “best-in-class” practice area (400 yards plus in length) and short game area – working closely with Greensboro resident professional – Jim Deaton – this is set to become a heavily used facility and probably the best of its kind in the region.”
Construction work was carried out by Medallist Golf. This involved the complete reconstruction of all tees, fairways, bunkers, greens, lakes, upgrade of the drainage system and a new TORO irrigation system.
Greensboro Country Club www.greensborocc.org
North Carolina Golf Panel www.ncgolfpanel.com
Gaunt Designs www.gaunt-golf-design.com