77 sand-flashed faces that makes them feel imposing and contributes to a new identity for the course. They are complemented by more natural exposed sand areas that frame holes and help to blend the sand coquina shell cart paths into the landscape. The positioning of hazards has been evaluated on every hole, to promote strategic play and to create the greater challenge for longer hitters. The average golfer, on the other hand, will find Interlachen much more approachable. “If you focus on helping golfers keep the ball in play and creating a strategy that keeps your mind thinking, while also making it beautiful and fun to play, you’ll be busy for your whole life,” says Marzolf. “Listening to the customer is key. It is their home course, and it needs to be a place they will be proud of and enjoy.” Turf decisions The Interlachen project involved a full peer review of agronomic specifications, material evaluation and laboratory testing oversight in partnership with Kansas-based Turf & Soil Diagnostics. TifTuf is a popular fairway choice in Florida because it maintains excellent turf quality and requires less water than other bermudagrass varieties. It offers excellent playing quality while also being environmentally sustainable. TifGrand was selected for the approaches and collection areas because it performs well at low mowing heights, allowing golfers the ability to putt from off the green or hit pitch shots. TifEagle performs extremely well on greens at high-end clubs throughout Florida and the southeast. This variety can be maintained at low cutting heights and produce exceptional ball roll when managed properly. The combination of these grasses allows Interlachen to maintain high-quality playing conditions while also being environmentally responsible. Adam Moeller of agronomic consultancy Turfgrass provides insight into grass choices at Interlachen. INTERLACHEN CC The ninth, which was a par four, is now a short par-three over water to an angled green Photo: Interlachen Country Club
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