The reconstruction of the Carlson Farm Course was a Donald Steel and Gaunt Golf Design collaboration. Donald was appointed in 2008 to prepare a complete renovation proposal for the Ellis Maples course, originally designed back in the early 1960’s. Greensboro Country Club celebrated it’s centenary in 2009 – having built it’s first course (The Irving Park Town Course) in 1909, designed by Donald Ross.

The work on the Carlson Farm Course involved the complete reconstruction of all tees, fairways, bunkers, greens, lakes, upgrade of the drainage system and a new TORO irrigation system.

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 which had otherwise been largely ignored by the course’s original architect. 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 7400 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, probably the best of its kind in the region.

The contractor, Medalist Golf executed the work to a very high standard, within budget and on time and both Jonathan and Donald were in attendance at the Grand Opening of the Carlson Farm Course in May 2010.

 

Photo credit:  Jo Dost