11 Image: Midlothian Country Club Hearn’s work at Midlothian has included tree removal, restoring green corners that had been lost over time, bunker restoration and renovation, adding new bunker drainage and Pro Angle sand, fairway contouring, new green runoff areas, new forward and back tees, and new drainage. “My goal was to preserve Herbert Tweedie’s incredible original routing that has endured the test of time along with his incredible green complexes,” says Hearn. “I also wanted to make the course more fun and strategic for all skill levels that enjoy the course now and for years to come. My primary focus was to increase the strategy, shot value, playability and aesthetics throughout the course while giving it a classic look and feel.” Hearn has worked alongside golf course contractor Leibold Golf Construction, the club’s general manager Tom Ahern, and golf course superintendent Cory Von Tungein and his crew. “They have all done an outstanding job,” he says. “It has been exciting to work with them on such a wonderful and historic golf course. I can’t wait for the members to enjoy the completed project. I think they will be very pleased with the course’s classic look and feel.” The club is set to host the 2023 Western Junior amateur tournament, and Hearn thinks the competitive players will be impressed by the course’s enhanced strategy, shot value and beauty. “The work I have done brings the strategies and angles from the original design back into play and enhances the options, risks and rewards for all players especially around the outside edges of the holes that have been lost over time,” says Hearn. “Overall, I respected the club’s great history and helped restore and renovate important golf course features. We look forward to showing it off in 2022.” For more on Raymond Hearn Golf Course Designs, turn to page 46 or visit https://rhgd.com A 1925 plan helped Hearn ensure his work is respectful of the original Herbert Tweedie design Photo: Ray Hearn
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