Thank-You, Hyde Park

HP Grounds Team

What began as a conversation in late 2020 with John Gartner, Grounds Chair became a reality when the golf course closed on July 14, 2025, for the most significant restoration project in Hyde Park's history. This past weekend, we proudly welcomed members back to a restored Hyde Park Country Club.

Like any project of this size and scope, there were challenges, setbacks, and countless decisions along the way. Through it all, the support, patience, and encouragement of our membership never wavered. On behalf of the Grounds Department, thank you for trusting the process and allowing us the opportunity to bring this vision to life.

I would like to thank President Mike Misleh, Grounds Chairman Chuck Madden, and Golf Architect Tyler Rae for their kind words during opening weekend. Their comments were greatly appreciated and served as a reminder of the tremendous effort, dedication, and collaboration that made this restoration possible.

While many people contributed to the success of this restoration, none deserve more recognition than our Grounds Team and our partners. This project was truly built on their backs. Through long days, difficult conditions, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, they along with our partners transformed plans on paper into the golf course our membership enjoyed this past weekend.

I would also like to recognize our leadership team: Aaron Garrett, Jared Marshall, Brad Leitz, Bobby Schenkel, Zach Neuhaus, Bryan Miller, and Sandi Wessendorf. Large projects require sacrifices that often extend beyond the workplace. This team devoted countless hours to the restoration effort, often at the expense of time with their families. To each of them, and to their families who supported them throughout this journey, thank you.

Our interns and H-2B team were also instrumental to the success of this project. Their energy, dedication, and willingness to embrace the challenges of a restoration of this magnitude were remarkable. Their hard work helped us reach this important milestone.

On a personal note, I would like to thank my wife, Jen, and our daughters, Brynna and Maeve. Restoration projects demand an extraordinary amount of time and focus, and their patience, support, and understanding throughout this process meant more than words can express.

I would also like to recognize Larry Drehs as he approaches his retirement. Larry has been a tremendous resource, mentor, and friend over the years. His insight, guidance, and commitment to Hyde Park have positively influenced countless decisions and people along the way. Thank you, Larry, for everything you have done for this club and for those of us fortunate enough to work alongside you.

While we are proud to have reached this milestone, our work is not finished. There is still much ahead as we complete the remaining construction items and continue the grow-in and maturation of the golf course. We remain committed to delivering the best possible playing conditions and will continue to keep the membership informed as progress is made.

Most importantly, thank you to the members of Hyde Park Golf & Country Club. Your patience, encouragement, and support throughout this journey made this achievement possible. Seeing golfers back on the course this past weekend made every challenge worthwhile.

This reopening marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. We are excited about the future and honored to steward this special golf course for generations to come.

Pat O'Brien, MSc

Grounds Superintendent
Hyde Park Golf & Country Club

Course Update

Bunker Repair Update

We are pleased to report that the Hyde Park Grounds Team, alongside McDonald & Sons, was able to complete repairs to the affected bunkers and restore playing conditions.

Today, our team completed moving and leveling bunker sand while continuing work to restore the affected areas. Due to recent rainfall, the bunker sand may not be as firm as we would prefer initially. However, we will continue working on sand compaction and detail work over the coming days.

McDonald & Sons continues to make excellent progress on remaining restoration punch list items, including sodding along cart path edges and moving soil behind the 1st green to complete final shaping work.

We were also fortunate to receive support from the grounds team at The Camargo Club. We are grateful for their assistance and willingness to help during a challenging day.

A special thank you goes to Marshall, the Golf Shop staff, and several members who generously provided refreshments and meals throughout the day. Their support and thoughtfulness helped keep our crews energized and focused during a long day of repairs.

Our teams will continue working into the evening to complete final details, and we are excited to welcome everyone back to the golf course.

Thank you for your patience, encouragement, and support throughout this process. We look forward to seeing you on the course very soon.

Pat O'Brien 

Grounds Superintendent