Golf Inc. magazine, the world authority for golf course developers, owners and executives, has selected The Yards as the third best public course renovation of 2020.
Each year, the Golf Renovation of the Year recognizes the top course renovations and restorations from across the globe. The competition examines the full scope of the renovations, including improved playability, course aesthetics, achievement of goals and vision, infrastructure development and manageability.
While The Yards’ revitalization was critical for the physical course, it was also necessary for the property’s sustainability within the Ponte Vedra Beach golf community.
“This project illustrates the kind of innovative thinking that’s needed to revitalize public courses,” said judge Martin Elgison, president of the Bobby Jones Golf Course Foundation and a 2019 competition honoree.
Purchased in failing and near-irreparable condition in February 2016, The Yards reopened as the area’s first and only 12-hole course in the fall of 2020.
Tailored to the modern player, The Yards’ transformation focused on player experience with a casual atmosphere, reduced playing time and dynamic offerings. The extensive rehabilitation of the championship front nine was complemented by the addition of a new six-hole par-three course, providing golfers with playing options of 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 holes.
The restoration was completed by MacCurrach Golf Construction, a local company recognized nationally for its work on TPC Sawgrass, Streamsong and 2019 renovation winners Sea Island and TPC Sugarloaf, to name a few.
“It is an honor and privilege to be recognized amongst this distinguished group,” Mike Miles, The Yards general manager and course architect said. “Our team has been busy with the remaining projects that will complete our property’s transformation, including an event pavilion, pickleball courts and a new maintenance facility. With our one-year anniversary coming up in October, this award is a great reminder of how far we have come.”
To learn more about The Yards, got to playtheyards.com.
