Pinehurst Converting To Bermuda Greens After '14 U.S. Opens
/For Immediate Release...
PINEHURST TO CONVERT GREENS ON THREE MORE COURSES TO ULTRADWARF BERMUDAGRASS
No. 8, No. 3 scheduled for conversion this year; No. 2 scheduled July 2014 following U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open
VILLAGE OF PINEHURST, N.C. (May 31, 2013) – Pinehurst Resort & Country Club today announced that it will convert the greens on three more courses to ultradwarf bermudagrass, the next stage in an evolution to extend championship conditions throughout the year and particularly during the heat of summer.
Following the successful conversion of No. 1’s greens in 2012, Pinehurst this year will convert No. 8, which is currently closed and will reopen July 24, and No. 3, which is scheduled to close Aug. 4 and reopen Oct. 4. The greens on Pinehurst No. 2 will be converted beginning in July 2014, following the hosting of the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open in consecutive weeks, and the course will reopen for play in September. The turf will be planted using the “no-till” process and will not require excavation of the greens or any changes in the contours.
“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,” said Pinehurst President Don Padgett II.
The three courses will be converted to Champion ultradwarf bermudagrass, which has been installed with great success 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. The ultradwarf variety provides top-quality conditions on an everyday basis and allows fine-tuning for elite championship conditions when needed.
The conversions follow successful installations of ultradwarf bermudagrass greens at Pinehurst over the last year. Thistle Dhu, the new putting course, has become very popular since opening in August 2012, and the greens on No. 1 were converted last July. Because ultradwarf bermudagrass greens are installed with sprigging rather than seeding and thrive in the heat, No. 1 reopened for play in just 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,” said Bob Farren, Pinehurst Director of Grounds and Golf Course Maintenance.
“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.”
