Bill Bergin oversees first phase of Druid Hills GC renovation project
The first phase of a renovation of the course at Druid Hills Golf Club in Atlanta, US, has been completed.
Overseen by golf course architect Bill Bergin, the project thus far has focused primarily on the course’s front nine holes.
28 bunkers have been rebuilt or added, and seven removed from the course. The areas around the green complexes have also been worked on, from the edge of the putting surface outward.
Bergin has also looked to improve the way the bunkers fit into the green surrounds and their strategic positioning. The new and rebuilt bunkers have been constructed using the Better Billy Bunker method, and this, in combination with Bergin’s grass faced bunker style, will help keep the bunkers consistent and to the highest level of performance going forward.
Nine new tees – comprised of five new forward tees, three championship tees and one middle tee – have also been added. This is with the aim of making par more attainable for women and seniors.
By increasing the playable areas around the greens, Bergin has aimed to allow golfers the possibility of navigating hazards while also creating a range of short game recovery opportunities.
The Druid Hills course was originally designed by Herbert Barker and opened in 1912.
Bergin, alongside a team from Bergin Golf Designs, will begin the project’s second phase in early 2017, focusing on the back nine. The upcoming work will include the resurfacing of greens, renovation of all bunkers and the introduction of additional tees.