Vineyards reopens South course after Kipp Schulties renovation

Vineyards Country Club near Fort Myers, Florida, has reopened its South course, following a renovation project led by golf course architect Kipp Schulties.

Schulties extended the layout – a 1988 Bill Amick design – from 6,800 to 7,200 yards, expanded greens and positioned bunkers to introduce more risk-reward opportunities.

“The new South course is very playable, with wide open fairways and firmer, faster playing conditions throughout,” said Schulties. “The greens are faster and far bigger, with more character and contour. The ball will roll much further, offering a far better-quality course and keeping playability challenging, yet not difficult. The driving range tee has been expanded, and the design of the driving range has changed, lowering the floor of the range, making it appear bigger and contoured to see every shot.”

A new irrigation system with individual head control and enhanced drainage will give the club the ability to use water more efficiently. Schulties also prioritised sustainability in his design by replacing several acres of turf with native grasses, which will reduce water and chemical usage by 10 to 15 per cent.

Construction work was handled by QGS Development, and included enlarging lakes and adapting to the rocky terrain. New Pro/Angle sand has been used in bunkers, which are now expected to recover quicker from extreme weather.

Watch: A video showing ‘during’ and ‘after’ footage of the South course renovation at Vineyards CC.

“The South course has evolved into a better-playing golf haven, offering an unparalleled golfing adventure for our members,” said Michael Procacci Jr, chairman and co-owner of the club. “This is the latest of our ongoing efforts to honour our place in the Greater Naples community and the continued legacy of leadership that our members have always insisted upon.”

The club will renovate its North course in 2024.

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