Turf Tested: Behind the Scenes at TPC Scottsdale for the WM Phoenix Open

As the raucous energy of the WM Phoenix Open takes over TPC Scottsdale, the unsung heroes of the tournament are working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure pristine playing conditions. At the heart of it all is Brandon Reese, GCSAA, Director of Golf Course Operations, leading a seasoned agronomy team that has meticulously prepared the course for one of the most unique stops on the PGA TOUR.

Weathering the Desert’s Challenges

This year’s preparation came with a twist: an extreme drought. Phoenix saw a near-record-breaking dry streak of 159 days without measurable rainfall, a challenge that tested the limits of turfgrass management. Reese and his team leaned on reclaimed water sources and innovative maintenance practices to keep the playing surfaces in top condition. High temperatures during overseeding season added another hurdle, requiring the team to deploy grow lamps and fans to ensure the health and vibrancy of the ryegrass and Poa trivialis greens.

Course Enhancements and Strategic Adjustments

Beyond managing the climate, the TPC Scottsdale agronomy crew has made subtle but significant changes to elevate both player and spectator experiences.

• Ridge work on holes #6 and #12 enhances sightlines for fans, adding to the stadium-like atmosphere that makes this event so electric.

• The build-out for the famed 16th hole began in mid-September, ensuring the legendary “coliseum” structure is ready for the thousands of spectators who will transform it into golf’s loudest hole.

• Refined green surfaces after a tough overseed period have helped maintain smooth and consistent putting conditions across the course.

Meet the Team Behind the Turf

Reese, a 16-year GCSAA member, has a deep history in tournament prep, having hosted PGA TOUR events every year since 2008. His leadership is complemented by a staff filled with industry veterans, many of whom have spent over three decades maintaining the course. Key agronomy personnel include Superintendent Doug Hamman and assistants Aric Runge, Will Maier, Rylan Hulse, and Blake Cederberg. With an all-hands-on-deck approach, the team has been fine-tuning every blade of grass to ensure players face the best possible conditions.

Tournament Turf Details

• Par: 71 | Yardage: 7,261

• Greens: Poa trivialis / Bentgrass / Ryegrass overseed

• Fairways & Tees: Ryegrass / Fine Fescue overseed

• Rough: Ryegrass / Fine Fescue overseed

• Average Green Size: 7,069 sq. ft.

• Bunkers: 67 | Water Hazards: 3 (impacting 6 holes)

Ready for the Spotlight

With a firm, fast setup and expert conditioning, TPC Scottsdale is primed for another thrilling week at the WM Phoenix Open. While fans soak in the spectacle, the turf professionals who shape the course will be laser-focused on their craft—ensuring the action inside the ropes is just as spectacular as the atmosphere outside of them.

For more updates on the agronomy team’s work, follow @brandonleereese and @tpscottsdale on X.

Agronomy Takes Center Stage at the 2025 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

As the PGA TOUR shifts to the breathtaking California coastline for the 2025 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, the focus is not only on the world’s top golfers but also on the dedicated agronomy teams that bring these historic courses to life. This year’s tournament, running from January 30 to February 2, will showcase the work of Pete Bachman, CGCS, at Pebble Beach Golf Links and Sean Sherbert, GCSAA, at Spyglass Hill. These professionals and their teams have spent months preparing to deliver pristine playing conditions despite unique environmental challenges.

The Masters of the Greens

Pete Bachman, CGCS – Pebble Beach Golf Links

With 17 years as a GCSAA member and 12 years with Pebble Beach Company, Bachman is no stranger to championship golf. This marks his second AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am as superintendent, a role that comes with immense responsibility. In the past year, his team has overseen a full rebuild of the 6th green and planted over 50 trees to enhance the course’s legendary aesthetics.

• Course Architect: Jack Neville & Douglas Grant (1919)

• Par/Yardage: 72 / 6,972 yards

• Turfgrass: Poa annua greens (.125” height of cut), ryegrass/Poa annua throughout fairways, tees, and rough

• Challenges: The unusually dry winter has resulted in firm and fast playing conditions, a departure from the typical softer setup for this event.

• Recognition: Bachman was recently named Superintendent of the Year by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of Northern California.

His team of 29 agronomy employees and 20 tournament volunteers will work tirelessly throughout the week to keep the course in top condition, all while being watched over by the beloved golf course dogs, Rosco and Rosy.

Sean Sherbert, GCSAA – Spyglass Hill

In his first year as superintendent, Sherbert leads the charge at Spyglass Hill, a course known for its stunning coastal beauty and challenging layout. Having worked at Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill, and Poppy Hills, Sherbert brings valuable experience to his new role. His team has been busy upgrading irrigation, adding drainage in key areas, and managing the impact of severe December storms that toppled 30 trees, including the iconic Cypress in the 16th fairway.

• Course Architect: Robert Trent Jones Sr. (1966)

• Par/Yardage: 72 / 7,041 yards

• Turfgrass: Poa annua greens (.120” height of cut), perennial ryegrass/Poa annua mix throughout fairways, tees, and rough

• Renovations: Expansion of the 6th green complex by 1,200 sq. ft., providing more strategic pin locations

• Future Plans: A full rebuild of the 15th green complex and additional Cypress and Oak plantings are scheduled for 2025.

Sherbert’s team includes 24 agronomy employees and 35 tournament volunteers, many of whom are former employees or aspiring turfgrass managers gaining hands-on experience.

Preparing for Championship Conditions

Both Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill present unique agronomic challenges that require precise management. The courses’ sandy loam soil, reliance on effluent water sources, and proximity to the Pacific Ocean create distinct growing conditions that demand year-round attention.

Key tournament prep efforts include:

• Irrigation Management: With lower-than-average rainfall, moisture levels are carefully monitored to maintain firm yet fair conditions.

• Fine-Tuning Greens Speeds: Pebble Beach’s Poa annua greens are set to roll at a Stimpmeter reading of 10.5, ensuring smooth but challenging surfaces for competitors.

• Bunker and Fairway Maintenance: Spyglass Hill’s 62 sand bunkers and tight fairways require meticulous upkeep to meet PGA TOUR standards.

A Legacy of Excellence

Beyond the week’s competition, both courses have storied histories. Pebble Beach will continue its legacy as a championship venue, hosting the 2027 U.S. Open. Spyglass Hill, meanwhile, remains a favorite among players for its demanding layout and stunning scenery—made even more special by its connection to Treasure Island, with each hole named after a significant place or character from the novel.

Follow the Action

As the world's best golfers take on these iconic courses, remember the incredible work of the agronomy teams behind the scenes. Follow @GCSAA and @attproam for updates, and celebrate the professionals who shape the courses that make the game of golf so spectacular.

Behind the Turf at the Farmers Insurance Open: Agronomy in Action

The Farmers Insurance Open, hosted at the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, California, is more than a display of golfing excellence. It’s a testament to the meticulous work of agronomy professionals who craft pristine playing conditions on both the South and North Courses. This year's tournament, held January 22–25, 2025, showcases the tireless dedication of Devin Cullen, GCSAA, and his expert team.

Leadership on the Greens

Devin Cullen, Director of Agronomy

With 13 years as a GCSAA member and nine years at Torrey Pines, Devin Cullen has built an impressive resume, including four Farmers Insurance Opens as a superintendent. A Penn State graduate and California native, Cullen has overseen numerous course improvements, including drainage upgrades and maintenance optimizations, despite challenges like increased player traffic and historically dry winters.

A Team Effort

Cullen is supported by 40 agronomy employees and 26 tournament volunteers, a cohesive unit dedicated to delivering top-tier conditions. From assistant superintendents Travis Rebischke and Tim Phelan to the equipment management team led by Agustin Cisneros, each role contributes to the event's success. Even Callaway, the team’s 12-year-old boxer mix, adds to the camaraderie.

Preparing the Courses

Torrey Pines’ South and North Courses are masterpieces of design and maintenance, demanding constant attention to detail.

South Course

• Architect: William P. Bell and William F. Bell (1957), renovated by Rees Jones in 2001 and 2019.
• Par/Yardage: Par 72, 7,765 yards.
• Turfgrass: Poa annua greens (.095"), ryegrass overseed throughout fairways and rough.
• Challenges: Increased rounds have led to wear and tear, addressed through careful irrigation and management of clay soil conditions.

North Course

• Architect: William P. Bell and William F. Bell (1957), renovated by Tom Weiskopf in 2016.
• Par/Yardage: Par 72, 7,258 yards.
• Turfgrass: Bentgrass greens (.100"), ryegrass overseed across fairways and rough.
• Design Features: Larger greens (average 6,000 sq. ft.) and strategic bunkering for a unique player experience.

Meeting Challenges with Expertise

This year's tournament preparation was marked by unique challenges:

• Dry Winter Conditions: The driest winter in Cullen’s tenure required strategic water management, utilizing potable and reclaimed water to maintain turf health.
• Increased Play: Elevated traffic demanded innovative solutions to reduce wear, including targeted overseeding and advanced drainage.

Sustainability and Legacy

Torrey Pines not only serves as a premier golf destination but also exemplifies sustainable course management:

• Efficient Water Use: The course integrates reclaimed water for most areas, reducing reliance on potable sources.
• Upgraded Drainage: Over 4,000 feet of new drainage in low-lying areas ensures resilience during wet periods.
• Historical Significance: From its origins as Camp Callan during World War II to hosting the U.S. Open, Torrey Pines is steeped in history.

Behind the Greens at The American Express: A Spotlight on Turf and the Agronomy Team

The American Express PGA TOUR event, held January 16-19, 2025, at PGA West in La Quinta, California, is not just a test of the world’s best golfers but also a showcase of exceptional agronomy. With three unique courses—Pete Dye Stadium, Jack Nicklaus Tournament, and La Quinta Country Club—this event highlights the dedication and expertise of the superintendents and their teams, who bring these pristine layouts to life.

The Agronomy Leadership

Brian Sullivan, CGCS, MG, Director of Agronomy at PGA West

With 39 years as a GCSAA member and a dual degree in turfgrass management from Michigan State and Penn State, Brian Sullivan’s leadership ensures the courses are tournament-ready. His extensive experience is complemented by a team of seasoned professionals who manage the facility’s diverse playing surfaces.

Denver Hart, Pete Dye Stadium Course Superintendent

A GCSAA member for eight years, Denver Hart oversees the Pete Dye Stadium Course, known for its challenging design and immaculate conditions. With 55 agronomy employees and 24 international tournament volunteers, Hart’s crew ensures the course is prepared to challenge the world’s best.

Tim Putnam, La Quinta Country Club Superintendent

With 22 years at La Quinta and a commitment to innovation, Tim Putnam has overseen significant enhancements, including bunker renovations and a master tree plan. His dedication reflects a balance of tradition and modern agronomy practices.

Turfgrass Excellence

Each course in The American Express rotation demands precise turf management:

• Pete Dye Stadium Course

  • Greens: Poa overseed at .115”
  • Fairways and Rough: Ryegrass overseed provides vibrant aesthetics and consistent play.
  • Unique Features: Native soil, canal irrigation, and 90+ bunkers spanning 6.3 acres.

• Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course

  • Greens: Poa overseed, maintaining uniform speed and firmness.
  • Fairways: Overseeded ryegrass, with a strategic layout and eight water hazards.
  • Signature Design: Jack Nicklaus’ strategic bunkering creates challenges for every level of play.

• La Quinta Country Club

  • Greens: Poa trivialis/ryegrass overseed at .105”.
  • Fairways: Ryegrass overseed with a lush, playable texture.
  • Sustainability Initiatives: Tree removal and lake reshaping enhance aesthetics and playability.

Agronomy Innovations and Challenges

The preparation for a PGA TOUR event like The American Express goes beyond routine maintenance:

• Tournament Volunteer Program: Now in its third year, the program brings agronomy professionals from the U.S., Canada, and the UK to lend their expertise.
• Sustainability Focus: Each course leverages local water sources and modern irrigation practices to ensure sustainability without sacrificing quality.
• Course Enhancements: From new bunker sand at La Quinta to additional waste areas at PGA West, the courses continue to evolve while preserving their character.

A Testament to Agronomy Excellence

The American Express is more than a golf tournament—it’s a tribute to the dedication, skill, and innovation of agronomy professionals. From the lush fairways to the perfectly manicured greens, every inch of the course reflects the hard work of Brian Sullivan, Denver Hart, Tim Putnam, and their teams.

As the PGA TOUR players navigate the challenges of these world-class courses, they’ll be competing on the foundation of meticulous turf management and agronomic expertise.

For more behind-the-scenes updates, follow @pgawestagronomy, @Den_J_Hart, and @GCSAA on social media.

The RSM Classic returns this week to the stunning Sea Island Resort on St. Simons Island, Georgia, running November 21-24, 2024. As the PGA TOUR season winds down, this fan-favorite tournament showcases top-tier talent across two exceptional courses: the Seaside and Plantation courses.

A Tale of Two Courses

Seaside Course

Originally designed by Harry Colt and Charles Alison in 1929 and revamped by Tom Fazio in 1999, the Seaside Course is a par-70, 7,005-yard coastal gem. Known for its wide-open vistas and links-style play, it offers unique challenges with narrow fairways and heavy soil conditions.

Turfgrass Details:

• Greens: TifEagle bermudagrass, mown to .090”
• Fairways & Rough: Perennial ryegrass overseed, delivering vibrant color and consistent playability.

Plantation Course

Walter Travis’ original 1928 design was reimagined by Davis Love III in 2019. The Plantation Course is a par-72, 7,060-yard parkland-style layout. Its tighter fairways, lush surroundings, and 81 strategically placed bunkers create a formidable yet rewarding test for players.

Turfgrass Details:

• Greens: TifEagle bermudagrass
• Fairways: Platinum paspalum for its resilience and performance.
• Rough: TifTuf bermudagrass, optimized for durability.

The Team Behind the Green

Dylan Stafford, GCSAA, Director of Golf Course Maintenance, leads the charge with a decade of expertise at Sea Island. Backed by Ethan Jones, Dan Beckum, and a dedicated maintenance crew, the courses are prepared to shine on golf’s grand stage.

Key Course Insights

• Seaside Course: Average fairway width of 47 yards with 13 water hazards in play.
• Plantation Course: Average fairway width of 43 yards, featuring a new waste area on No. 13.
• Both courses rely on holding ponds for water and boast excellent drainage conditions to handle weather fluctuations.

A True Coastal Experience

Sea Island Resort isn’t just about world-class golf—it’s a destination for luxury and leisure. The RSM Classic perfectly blends the competitive spirit of the game with the serene beauty of Georgia’s coastline, offering an experience spectators and players alike won’t forget.

Stay tuned as the action unfolds, and follow @TheRSMClassic and @GCSAA for updates!

The World Wide Technology Championship is set to bring the world’s best golfers to El Cardonal at Diamante in Cabo San Lucas from November 7-10, 2024. Designed by Tiger Woods and maintained under the expert care of Kevin Welker, CGCS, the course promises both beauty and challenges on its 7,452-yard, par-72 layout. Welker, a 36-year GCSAA member, brings decades of experience from around the world to ensure the course is in perfect shape for this exciting event.

El Cardonal’s greens, fairways, and tees are lush with Platinum paspalum, a turf that thrives in the coastal climate and allows for beautifully consistent play. Greens are trimmed to a precise .090 inches, running a Stimpmeter speed of 11-12, ensuring tournament-grade roll. Collars, approaches, and tees are also maintained at specific heights to offer the perfect balance between playability and challenge.

Course enhancements include new bunker sand in all 48 bunkers, adding to the precision required of every shot. With wide fairways averaging 60 yards, players will have some breathing room, but the strategic layout and natural elements, such as Cabo’s sandy and clay loam soil, keep things interesting. El Cardonal spans an impressive 1,600 acres, featuring just one water hazard but abundant wildlife, from bobcats and deer to road runners and iguanas.

This championship highlights not just a beautifully maintained course but also an international spirit, with volunteers from across the globe coming to support. As Welker and his team continue to refine the course, anticipation builds for an unforgettable tournament in the heart of Cabo’s scenic landscape.

For more tournament details and ongoing coverage, follow @WWTChampionship, @DiamanteCabo, and @GCSAA on Twitter.

Full Tournament Fact Sheet:  CLICK HERE

The Shriners Children's Open returns to the stunning TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas, Nev., from October 17-20, 2024. Known for its desert beauty and challenging layout, TPC Summerlin will once again host the world’s top golfers, all while supporting the noble cause of Shriners Children's. This year’s tournament promises to deliver a spectacular showcase of golf on a course meticulously prepared by Golf Course Maintenance Director Dale Hahn, CGCS, and his team.

About the Superintendent

Dale Hahn, a 35-year member of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), has been at TPC Summerlin for 22 years. With over three decades of experience, Hahn has been instrumental in maintaining the course’s reputation for excellence. His long-standing dedication to the game earned him a place in the Las Vegas Golf Hall of Fame in 2022, making him only the second superintendent to receive this honor.

Hahn’s team includes Assistant Superintendent Luke Headley, Assistant in Training Cruz Mortensen, and Equipment Manager Oscar Tejeda, among others. The crew of 32 employees will be supported by 8 tournament volunteers from across the country to ensure the course is in peak condition.

Course Details

TPC Summerlin, designed by Bobby Weed and consulted by Fuzzy Zoeller, spans 150 acres of pristine golf terrain. The par-71 layout stretches 7,255 yards, featuring large greens averaging 7,400 sq. ft. that are surfaced with Dominator bentgrass mown to .100 inches for tournament speed. The fairways are covered with Bandera bermudagrass at .425 inches, providing firm and fast playing conditions.

The course's rough consists of 419 bermudagrass cut to 2.25 inches, while the collars around the greens feature TifGrand bermudagrass at .225 inches. With 92 sand bunkers and four water hazards coming into play, the course presents a strategic challenge for golfers. Notably, TPC Summerlin is recognized as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary for its commitment to environmental sustainability, which includes removing turf areas to meet water restrictions mandated by the Las Vegas Valley Water District.

Additional Notes

• TPC Summerlin's elevation changes, desert terrain, and premium playing surfaces make it one of the most demanding courses on the PGA TOUR.
• The course was resurfaced in 2022, ensuring top-tier playing conditions for this year’s event.
• Hahn’s team continues to focus on sustainability by reducing turf areas and implementing water-saving measures without compromising the course's integrity.

As the Shriners Children’s Open approaches, the crew at TPC Summerlin is set to present a golf course that will challenge the best players while delivering exciting moments for fans. This event blends world-class golf with a meaningful cause, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

Preparing the Grounds: Sanderson Farms Championship at The Country Club of Jackson

As the PGA TOUR rolls into Jackson, Mississippi, for the 2024 Sanderson Farms Championship, the spotlight once again shines on The Country Club of Jackson. This historic venue, with its lush fairways and challenging greens, provides a picturesque setting for some of the world’s top golfers. Overseeing the immaculate conditions of this 27-hole property is Stanley Reedy, a certified golf course superintendent (CGCS) and GCSAA member with 45 years of experience. Reedy and his team have been preparing the course for what promises to be another thrilling tournament from October 3-6, 2024.

The championship course is a combination of the Dogwood and Azalea nines, offering a Par 72 layout stretching over 7,461 yards. October’s typically dry weather is expected to provide firm playing conditions, enhancing the strategic challenge of this beautiful Mississippi layout. Reedy’s team, which includes assistant superintendents Glenn Phillips, Dylan Boetler, Corey Garrison, and Griffin Rogers, along with equipment manager Brian Edwards, has been hard at work ensuring every blade of grass is in peak condition for the event.

Turfgrass Specifications:

• Greens: Champion bermudagrass, meticulously maintained at .110 inches, offering smooth and fast surfaces for players to negotiate.
• Tees: A mix of 419 Bermudagrass and Zeon zoysia, cut to .425 inches, providing firm and level surfaces for tee shots.
• Fairways: 419 Bermudagrass, maintained at .450 inches, offering a tight, consistent surface that rewards accuracy off the tee.
• Rough: A blend of 419 Bermudagrass and Zeon zoysia, grown to 2.5 inches, posing a formidable challenge to any player who strays from the fairways.

Course Statistics:

• Average Green Size: 6,200 square feet, requiring precision in approach shots.
• Total Property Acres: 250 acres, including 28 acres of fairways and 100 acres of rough.
• Bunkers and Hazards: The course features 56 sand bunkers and 7 water hazards, with water coming into play on 5 holes.
• Soil and Drainage: The course is sand-capped, which, along with its well water sources and strong drainage conditions, helps maintain firm and fast playing surfaces even under varying weather conditions.

The Country Club of Jackson is more than just a golf course—it’s steeped in history. Adjacent to the course lies Mule Jail, a camp named for its role in the Civil War, where locals hid horses and mules from Union soldiers. This rich history, combined with the modern-day thrill of the Sanderson Farms Championship, makes it a unique venue on the PGA TOUR calendar.

As the tournament approaches, Stanley Reedy and his team continue their preparations, ensuring that The Country Club of Jackson is ready to challenge the world's best golfers while providing a memorable experience for players, fans, and volunteers alike. The 2024 Sanderson Farms Championship is sure to be a highlight of the fall golf season.

Ohio GCSA Member, Don Lawrence and Advanced Turf Solutions are helping out the Carolinas and the Southeast.

We’ve all seen the impact Hurricane Helene has had on the Southeast, especially in North Carolina. Rescue crews are still unable to reach people in some areas, cell service and power are spotty, and supplies are desperately needed.

This storm has affected many lives, and we want to do everything we can to help.

The ATS warehouse in Winston-Salem has been set up as a drop-off center through the Carolinas GCSAA, which is working with local law enforcement agencies to coordinate volunteer efforts and supply runs. With 32 locations across the Eastern and Midwestern United States, the ATS team is joining forces to collect essential supplies like canned goods (with pop tops), bottled water, and toiletries. These supplies will be transferred to our Winston-Salem warehouse to help those affected by Hurricane Helene.

Time is of the essence. If you’re able to help donate items, please get in touch before the end of the day on Friday, as items will be transferred early next week to North Carolina. You can drop off your donation at any ATS location or call me, and I will come pick it up.

For any of you participating in the Wee One event Friday please feel free to bring your donations to the event and I will get them to a warehouse.

Thank you for your support as we help our neighbors in need.

Please feel free to forward this to family and friends.

Don Lawrence, Sales Representative telephone: 440.740.0303 | mobile: 419.408.0083 6780 Southpointe Parkway Brecksville, Ohio 44141 www.advancedturf.com

A Journey Through the Greens: Preparing Castle Pines for the 2024 BMW Championship

As the 2024 BMW Championship approaches, Castle Pines Golf Club in Castle Rock, Colorado, is gearing up to host the world's top golfers on a course renowned for its stunning elevation changes and strategic design. Nestled at an altitude of 6,400 feet, this Jack Nicklaus-designed course is a true test of skill, combining natural beauty with demanding play. Leading the charge in preparing the course is Scott Pavalko, a seasoned Director of Golf Course and Grounds with 21 years of experience as a GCSAA member.

Scott Pavalko’s team at Castle Pines includes superintendents Trevor Meints and Brandon Wollesen, senior assistant John Calendine, and a dedicated group of turf specialists, horticulturists, and maintenance professionals. Together, they are responsible for ensuring that the 210-acre course is in peak condition for the tournament. This year, the course has undergone extensive renovations, including new bunkers, rebuilt tees and greens, and enhanced water features—all carefully overseen to preserve the original Nicklaus design while meeting modern standards.

Turfgrass Specifications:

• Greens: T1 Bentgrass / Poa annua, maintained at a precise height of .100 inches for a fast and consistent roll, with a Stimpmeter reading of 13.
• Collars: T1 Bentgrass / Poa annua, cut to .225 inches.
• Approaches: Bentgrass / Poa annua, at a height of .375 inches, providing a seamless transition from fairway to green.
• Tees: Bentgrass / Poa annua, trimmed to .400 inches, offering a firm and uniform surface for tee shots.
• Fairways: A cool-season mix of Bentgrass, Poa annua, and perennial ryegrass, maintained at .400 inches for optimal playability.
• Rough: A challenging mix of Kentucky bluegrass, turf-type tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass, cut to a formidable height of over 4 inches.

Course Statistics:

• Total Yardage: The course will play at an imposing 8,130 yards, emphasizing the importance of distance and accuracy.
• Average Green Size: 5,600 square feet, requiring precision in approach shots.
• Fairway Width: Average landing areas are just 27 yards wide, putting a premium on accuracy.
• Sand Bunkers: 77 strategically placed bunkers that guard fairways and greens.
• Water Hazards: 10 water hazards come into play across the course, demanding careful shot planning.

The unique environmental conditions at Castle Pines also play a role in the course’s character. With rocky native soil and a water supply sourced from reclaimed water and wells, the turf management team faces the ongoing challenge of maintaining healthy, resilient playing surfaces. The course’s dramatic elevation changes, combined with its rugged terrain, make for a visually stunning but technically demanding layout.

Adding to the course's allure is its wildlife, including a herd of 250 elk, deer, bobcats, mountain lions, and a variety of bird species, such as bald eagles and hummingbirds. This natural backdrop enhances the experience for players and spectators alike, making the 2024 BMW Championship at Castle Pines an event not to be missed.

As the tournament dates approach, Pavalko and his team continue their meticulous preparations, ensuring that Castle Pines will provide a true test of golf that showcases both the skill of the players and the expertise of those who maintain the course. The 2024 BMW Championship promises to be a memorable event, where the beauty of nature meets the precision of world-class golf.

FULL TOURNAMENT FACT SHEET:  CLICK HERE