We removed the tree to the front right of #7 green this morning. While the tree was not showing signs that it would fail soon, the health of the tree was declining. This coupled with the fact that it detracted from the playability of the hole, led us to the removal decision.
During our spring course tour with Alex Hay and Tim Lobb of Lobb & Partners (our golf course architectural consultants) they noted that removing the tree would improve the playability of the golf hole allowing more shots into what is already a tough green site.
Phase 2 of this project will come in the off season when we expose the natural feature that is the bedrock mound below the tree. We will also fill in the short grass depression behind the tree approximately 50%. Filling this feature in partially will create an easier to mow slope and also a slope that may allow for putting to the green from this short grass area.
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Hi Jay. Thanks for the update on hole 7. I am not sure I agree about the playability rationale for removing the tree. Hole 7 is one of the shortest par 4's on the course. The tree was a nice character feature that somewhat offset this. I have noted that quite a few right hand golfers(most slice of course) would hit this tree as the fairway slopes in that direction. More errant balls are now going well over the green and over towards 8th tee. I understand that you will take advice from outsiders from time to time. Please also think about the all the boots-on-the-ground OV players that are also a good source of insight when making future course alterations.
ReplyDeleteHi Bill,
ReplyDeleteThank you for taking the time to comment, my apologies for the delayed response as for some reason I did not receive a notification. I intend to attend Match Committee meetings going forward as this is something I have yet to do. This should allow for more interaction and discussion with a representative group of the membership. I always enjoy discussing matters regarding the course and look forward to the next meeting for which to do so.