The Heart of the Restoration-The Putting Greens

Dear Hyde Park Members,

I’m excited to showcase some updates to the course with the upcoming restoration, focusing on the heart of every hole—the putting greens. Partnering with renowned golf course architect Tyler Rae, we aim to honor the original vision of Donald Ross while enhancing playability and strategy for today’s golfer.

Honoring Donald Ross’s Legacy

Donald Ross, one of golf’s most revered architects, designed greens that were both challenging and rewarding. Ross utilized grid paper in the 1920s—marked in many instances 10-foot increments—to create greens with wide fronts, allowing for a variety of shot-making options. His designs are known for their irregular shapes, subtle slopes, plateaus, and depressions, all contributing to a natural and progressive movement across the green surface.

In the restoration, these characteristics will be brought back to life, particularly on Greens 3, 14, and 15, which will be restored to Ross’s original drawings. These greens will regain their distinctive shapes and contours with over 12,000 square feet of green expansions across 15 holes- offering both tradition and an exciting challenge for players. You may enjoy to learn more about Donald Ross and his timeless designs; a few of the resources that I have enjoyed have included:

Donald Ross Society

Brad Becken

Bradley Klein 

Ross's 3rd at HP

Enhanced Strategy and Playability

With the expansion of 15 greens, we’ll be introducing new hole locations, adding diversity and strategy to your round. The widened fronts will promote creative shot-making, while the restored contours will demand thoughtful putting. This blend of classic design and modern strategy is sure to enrich your playing experience.

Tyer Rae and Jim Ryan Jr. Rendering-Hole 15

Agronomic Improvements for Superior Play

All of the greens will be regrassed with 007XL Bentgrass, a cutting-edge variety known for its exceptional smoothness, density, and resilience. Super bentgrasses like 007XL offer superior disease resistance, heat tolerance, and playability, ensuring the greens stay in pristine condition throughout the season.

Additionally, the 20 yards in front of each green will be seeded with 007XL bentgrass to enhance the ground game. This will provide tighter lies and smoother approaches, allowing for a wider range of shot options—perfect for those who love to play the ball along the ground.

Looking Ahead

This restoration represents a unique opportunity to blend the timeless artistry of Donald Ross with modern agronomic advancements. We’re confident that these improvements will elevate the golf experience, offering a course that challenges and is fun to play.

Thank-you for your continued support as we embark on this exciting project. I’ll keep you updated on the progress and look forward to seeing you on the course soon! Please pass along feedback or questions to grounds@hydeparkcc.com.

Best regards,

Pat O’Brien

Grounds Superintendent