By Design - Winter 2019

13 “This is where proper planning and guidance by the architect comes into play, to help the club prioritize the work sequentially so that the improvements follow the overall vision in a consistent manner and so already completed works are not redundantly impacted again,” says Rogers. Kenosha is under way with a thoughtful resurrection of the course’s original Donald Ross design intent, plus other improvements to address modern demands related to infrastructure, playability and management. Added complications Choosing to phase the work over multiple years does bring difficulties. “As well as complicating some work consistencies and limiting economies of scale, it is also a more ongoing inconvenience to golfers.” But Rogers says that this approach was the best and only choice for Kenosha. “Because there is a strong superintendent, leadership and a great relationship with the architect, we can remain laser- focused on details and we can still execute very strategically within the constraints and available resources.” Another club with a Ross layout to have successfully adopted a long- term approach is Hyde Park Golf and Country Club in Cincinnati, Ohio. Tim Liddy, ASGCA, first started work there in 2002, creating a master plan for course improvements. Course superintendent Pat O’Brien says: “The club was ultimately trying to improve infrastructure, given the failing irrigation system and poor drainage. Tim was also able to raise the discussion about tree removal, returning to the Ross roots while improving playability and infrastructure. “It made sense financially and the membership was not in favor of a shutdown to accomplish what was in the plan. Tim to this day is still excellent to collaborate with on changes on the course.” “A project like this must have a close understanding and relationship between club manager, golf professional, superintendent and Kenosha Country Club in Wisconsin (above) engaged Drew Rogers, ASGCA, to bring back the original Donald Ross design intent while addressing modern demands. Chris Wilczynski, ASGCA, completed a nine-year project to renovate Wanakah Country Club in New York (left) in 2018 Photos: Drew Rogers, ASGCA Photo: Chris Wilczynski, ASGCA