Lincoln, Neb. - The total number of Golf Course Builders Association of America certified builders has grown to an all time high for the organization. With the announcement of three members gaining the much sought after status, the total number of certified builders has grown to 35.
"The certified builder grade has the most stringent requirements in the GCBAA's professional certification program," says Paul Foley, GCBAA executive director. "The continued increase of the number of members reaching this level demonstrates the dedication of our membership to advance and continuously improve their profession. We're also pleased to announce two members have upgraded their certification from builder applicant to associate builder."
The latest GCBAA members to achieve certified builders status are Course Crafters of Gainsville, Ga., Glase Golf of Bonita Springs, Fla., and Malphrus Golf of Ridgeland, S.C.
Founded in 1992 by Bob Pinson, Course Crafters is a golf course construction and renovation company. The management team and staff have successfully renovated and constructed golf courses in southern and East Coast regions of the United States. Included on Course Crafters representative course list are Augusta Country Club, home of the Masters and Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Okla. host of several PGA Major Tournaments.
Glase Golf's scope of work is broad, ranging from small renovation projects to large-scale new construction. Recent completed projects include The Jack Nicklaus designed Old Corkscrew Golf Club and Sarasota National Golf Club designed by Gordon Lewis.
Listed as a full-service general contractor, Malphrus Golf conducts work ranging from new course construction to renovation. As a division of Malphrus construction, Malphrus Golf has also completed special work projects such as site development, infrastructure construction and recreation centers. The company has completed golf course construction and renovation projects at several courses in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina.
GCBAA members upgrading from builder applicant to associate builder are East Coast Shaping of Dalton, Mass. and Landirr of Sanford, Fla.
Based in Orlando Fla., Landirr specializes in new construction, renovations and irrigation systems. Established in 1985, Landirr serves the southeastern United States and the Caribbean. The company also provides management, grow-in and shaping services.
East Coast Shaping was established by Jim Basiliere, a self-described proshaper. The company is based in Dalton, Mass. and offers a multitude of golf course construction and renovation services. The goal of the company is to help shape the future of the sport of golf.
The GCBAA has different levels of membership starting with builder applicants, followed by associate builders, builder members and certified builders. Each level has unique set of requirements and qualifications designed to identify and recognize members who continue to strive to improve their professional standards and customer satisfaction.