News Summary
The Atlanta Athletic Club has announced a significant renovation of its Highlands Course, set to begin in 2028. Renowned golf course architect Andrew Green will oversee the project, which aims to modernize and enhance the golfing experience. The club, known for its rich history, has hosted several prestigious championships and is now focusing on a more holistic approach to member amenities, including tennis and dining facilities. As excitement grows for future events, including the U.S. Amateur Championship in 2030, this renovation represents a pivotal moment for the club’s legacy.
Exciting Renovation Plans for the Highlands Course at the Atlanta Athletic Club
Get ready, golf fans! There’s fantastic news bubbling up for the Atlanta Athletic Club (AAC) and its beloved Highlands Course. Big renovations are set to start in 2028, and everyone’s talking about it. This isn’t just any project; it’s part of a grand master plan that has garnered enthusiastic support from club members. So, grab your clubs and keep an eye on the horizon!
A Skilled Architect at Work
Who’s in charge of this significant facelift? None other than the talented golf course architect Andrew Green, known for his spectacular transformations of various prestigious courses across the United States. With a portfolio boasting famous venues like the Inverness Club in Toledo and the Oak Hill Country Club’s East Course in Rochester, he’s no stranger to world-class redesigns. Members are brimming with excitement as expectations soar for what’s to come!
Planning Is Key
Before any shovels hit the turf, planning is the name of the game. The initial phases of planning are set to kick off soon, with construction anticipated to begin in early 2028. This timing is simply perfect, coinciding with the eagerly awaited U.S. Girls Junior Championship in July 2023 at the Riverside Course, which has already seen some successful renovations of its own.
A Glimpse into History
The Highlands Course isn’t just any golfing stretch; it has an impressive history that any golf lover would appreciate. It has played host to several major championships throughout the years, including:
- U.S. Open in 1976
- Three PGA Championships (1981, 2001, 2011)
- U.S. Amateur Championship in 2014
- KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in 2021
This upcoming renovation is more than just a facelift for the golf course; it’s part of a larger push to enhance all the amenities at the club. There are plans to upgrade not only the golf offerings but also the tennis, athletic, and dining facilities, creating a well-rounded experience that members will truly savor.
Recognized Excellence
The AAC isn’t just a local treasure; it’s been recognized as a top player in the golfing community. Currently, the Highlands Course ranks No. 8 on Golfweek’s Best list of top private clubs in Georgia and sits at No. 129 among modern courses across the nation. Such accolades tell a story of prestige for a club that has been thriving since 1898 and settled into its current location since 1969.
Exciting Events on the Horizon
Mark your calendars because there are monumental events lined up! The club will host the U.S. Amateur in 2030, perfectly timed with the 100th anniversary of Bobby Jones’ incredible Grand Slam victories. Also, look out for the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship, planned for the Highlands Course in 2035. These events are expected to further elevate the club’s status as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts.
From 9 to 18 Holes: A Historical Perspective
The Highlands Course started its journey as a 9-hole layout back in 1967 and expanded to a full 18 holes just a few years later in 1971. The original design by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr. was later enhanced by Joe Finger. The last renovation prior to this ambitious new project took place in 2016, conducted by Rees Jones, who further contributed to the course’s charm.
Anticipating a Bright Future
As the planning for the course renovation heats up, Andrew Green is keen on crafting unique golfing experiences that cater to both elite players and casual ones alike. This thoughtful design ensures that golfers of every skill level will find something to admire on the Highlands Course, setting the stage for countless memorable games in the years to come.
The Atlanta Athletic Club is on the brink of an exhilarating new chapter, promising to rejuvenate its historic Highlands Course. As the countdown to 2028 begins, excitement will surely build among members and golf lovers everywhere. So, stay tuned for updates as the AAC prepares to enhance its rich legacy and redefine its golfing experience!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Golfweek: Major Renovation Ahead for the Highlands Course
- First Call Golf: Andrew Green Plots Renovation of AAC’s Highlands Course
- MSN: Highly Ranked Georgia Club Plans Golf Course Renovation
- Golfdom: Atlanta Athletic Club’s Riverside Golf Course Renovation Project
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
