A Nod to Ross-Hummocks and Grass Hollows

The Return of Hummocks at Hyde Park!

Example of Hummocks (mounds)

For those less familiar, hummocks are small mounds or undulations that add both aesthetic charm and strategic depth to a golf course. As part of our upcoming restoration efforts led by Tyler Rae, we are reintroducing these classic design elements to enhance the playability, challenge and beauty of Hyde Park.

A Nod to Donald Ross

The restoration draws inspiration from the legendary architect Donald Ross, who masterfully used natural landforms like hummocks and grass hollows to challenge players and create visual intrigue. In Ross’s original design notes, he specifically mentioned the dimensions and placement of these features to maximize both strategy and beauty. By bringing back these classic features, we’re honoring Ross’s timeless design principles while updating the course for today’s game.

Strategic Impact on Your Game

Hummocks and grass hollows aren’t just for looks! They introduce thoughtful strategic elements to each hole. Players will need to consider new shot placements, as the mounds and hollows can influence ball roll and stance. Navigating around these features will test your creativity and add an exciting dimension to your rounds.

Where You’ll See Them

A total of 11 holes will feature some variation of hummocks, with each offering a unique challenge. These hummocks are designed to reflect the dimensions outlined by Donald Ross in his original plans:

• Height: Varying from 4 to 9 feet tall, offering subtle to dramatic elevation changes.
• Width: Spanning 15 to 40 feet, providing a variety of challenges depending on location 
• Length: Some stretch upwards of 30 yards long, creating a bold visual and strategic statement on certain holes.

In addition, grass hollows will be used to create natural depressions that reward precision and penalize errant shots, exactly as Ross intended.

Shapes, Sizes, and Grass Types

You’ll notice a variety of shapes and sizes of hummocks and grass hollows throughout the course—from gentle ripples to more pronounced mounds and dips. The grass types on these features will add to their visual and strategic diversity:

• Some hummocks will be covered with fine fescue, giving them a more rugged, natural look reminiscent of traditional links-style courses.

• Others will feature short rough grass, providing a cleaner, more manicured appearance that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding fairways.

This careful selection of grass types ensures both optimal playability and a visually dynamic course.

Your feedback is always welcome—feel free to reach out with any questions or comments at grounds@hydeparkcc.com.

Best regards,

Pat O’Brien, 

Grounds Superintendent