By Design – Issue 53, Summer 2021

25 David Ferris, ASGCA, golf course architect at Sanford Golf Design. The new design reduces the amount of water used in irrigation by 30 percent, and water from the nearby Willoughby Creek stormwater treatment area can now be used to irrigate turf. “We purposely kept the bunkers, fairways and greens very simple for playability and ease of maintenance,” said Sanford. Kevin Abbate, the Parks and Recreation director, says that the renovation “not only addresses sustainability from a maintenance standpoint, but also provides a great experience for players of all ages and skill levels.” Another reinvention project is approaching completion just a few miles down the coast, at Palm Beach Gardens. Andy Staples, ASGCA, has overseen a ‘reimagining’ of The Squire course at PGA National Resort & Spa. Staples’ plan has seen the former first and eighteenth holes, which played parallel to each other, converted into a nine-hole par-three course. The remaining 16 holes have been renovated and two short holes added to create a new 18-hole layout that plays to 5,744 yards. “I focused on the three most innovative trends in the industry: firstly, reducing the time it takes to play; secondly, increasing player enjoyment, and thirdly, instilling classic design principles that spur interest in the game of golf,” says Staples. Areas of existing turf have been converted to coquina shell-style paths for both its visual effect and to reduce overall maintenance. Hazards have been kept to a minimum, with Staples focusing on expanding short grass fairways, chipping swales and grassy hollows. “The obvious benefit of a short layout is the continued reduction of resource use and labor intensity, both areas of increased concern over the past 20 years,” says Staples. “Shorter courses that are designed thoughtfully will check the sustainability boxes while providing a design that is unique, interesting and fun to play in less time than traditional ‘championship’ length courses. “A par-three course not only provides the resort with a needed top-quality practice facility, but also an opportunity to expand its user base by attracting many of their guests that aren’t avid golfers. These types of courses become social centers that all levels of golfers can enjoy, which make for fun and relaxing environments.” • Sanford Golf Design has created a nine-hole reversible layout at the renamed Sailfish Sands municipal facility in Florida Photo: Sanford Golf Design