Todd Eckenrode has completed a golf course renovation at La Jolla Country Club, located north of San Diego, California.
All bunkers have been renovated and all green surrounds reshaped, introducing short-cut approaches and varied chipping areas.
Some new greens have been built, including the ridge-top tenth, which was relocated to its original location. Several greens were expanded, reclaiming lost hole locations in the process.
The project has also seen the reshaping of tees to more natural forms, in keeping with William P. Bell’s design, and an expansive tree removal programme has allowed for views of the Pacific Ocean throughout the property.
A highlight of the renovation for Eckenrode has been the restoration of the lower canyon holes — eleven and twelve. “These holes were so beautifully routed along this coastal canyon floor, offering respite and variety to the dramatic blufftop holes found throughout the rest of the course,” said Eckenrode. “It’s this kind of variety that is paramount to good golf.”
Under the direction of Eckenrode and Andy Frank of Origins Golf Design, Landscapes Unlimited oversaw the construction. Shapers Kye Goalby and Matt Smallwood helped create the features while superintendent Dennis Fowler and his crew oversaw the progress and grow-in.
Eckenrode said: “It has been a privilege to work on another William Watson and William P. Bell gem, two of the most influential golf course designers in California. This was a project that we couldn’t be more pleased with. The members are sure to experience a more interesting, enjoyable round now with a more classic feel to the course and a tip of the cap to its treasured history.”
Don Rushing, president of La Jolla Country Club, said: “La Jolla Country Club is extremely pleased with the beautiful golf course renovation designed by Todd Eckenrode and Origins Golf Design. In six short months, we were able to deliver to our members a course that evokes the best elements of the original Billy Bell design, providing wonderful view corridors to the village of La Jolla and the Pacific, and challenges our members with variety and shot alternatives. The project was delivered on time and on budget. The club is deeply appreciative of the efforts of Origins Golf Design to bring our course project to fruition.”