Golf Course Architecture: Issue 57 - July 2019

29 TEE BOX Golfpark Zürichsee in Nuolen, Switzerland, has reopened as an 18-hole course following a two-year expansion project overseen by Kurt Rossknecht of Rossknecht Golfplan. “It is not a classic nine-hole extension. Ultimately, fourteen holes were newly created or significantly changed,” said Rossknecht. “The planning goal is to create a varied and fair golf course for everyone from the recreational golfer to the skilled player.” There was space for five new holes on a filled gravel pit at the adjacent Rütihof site. “Four holes were integrated into the existing nine-hole course,” said Rossknecht. “This was only possible because various smaller areas were previously not used for golf and some holes were extended, adapted or rebuilt. “The five new holes on the Rütihof site are quite different,” said Rossknecht. “Here, the landscape had to be redefined. There is an almost continuous impressive view of Lake Zurich and the surrounding mountains from these holes. “There are many water hazards and wet meadows, some of which are protected as spawning grounds for toads and frogs. There are ball- swallowing ponds, streams and woody plants, as well as bunkers that defend the landing areas.” New bunkers have been constructed with the Betty Billy Bunker liner and Durabunker edges. They have already been tested, following some extreme rain events, and the club is benefitting from their performance. Rossknecht expands Zürichsee from to 18 holes The new holes all have views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding mountains Photos: Golfpark Zürichsee TEE BOX