Courtesy of Mariner Sands Country Club
The board of governors at Mariner Sands Country Club, located along Florida’s Treasure Coast, announced the renovation of the Gold Course, one of the club’s two championship courses. The project, started in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, was guided by golf course architect Kipp Schulties. The project has a total estimated cost of around $2.25 million and was funded entirely with existing golf reserves.
Aging greens resulting in inconsistent roll, footprints, ball marks, watering related problems and other issues led to the renovation of the 15-year-old course. The greens were enlarged from 4,300 square feet to 6,300 square feet to allow for more pin placements and eliminate heavy traffic areas. Other features and enhancements include improved fairways, new and redesigned bunkers, new rock-wall bulkheads, and newly styled timber bridges. The plan also includes the installation of natural cap rock walls for enhanced course allure.
A trio of holes – Nos. 7, 9 and 18 – were redesigned by Schulties. With proximity and visibility from Mariner Sands Drive, the redesigned 18th hole will boost the club’s curb appeal. Enriched landscaping before golfers reach the first tee will further contribute to the club’s aesthetic appeal.
“Kipp Schulties, is one of the most sought-after golf course architects in South Florida,” general manager Bill Ward said. “He has worked alongside many PGA golf professionals/designers including Jack Nicklaus and Fred Couples and his portfolio includes some of the most prestigious clubs in Southeast Florida region. Schulties and his team provide a blend of experience in golf course design, engineering, project management, and new exciting elements made possible by modern construction equipment and methods. We are thrilled to have him on board again. Overall, it’s a hole-in-one for existing members, prospective members and overall player satisfaction.”
