Grande Dunes Resort Course On Pace To Reopen Sept. 15 Following Renovation Project

A comprehensive greens, bunkers and clubhouse renovation project at the Grande Dunes Resort Course is progressing smoothly as one of Myrtle Beach's most popular properties approaches its September 15 reopening date.

The 4-month project began on May 16 and architect John A. Harvey and his team have worked diligently to ensure Grande Dunes, which has been ranked among America's top 100 public courses, is in pristine condition for the area's peak fall season.

As part of the effort, Harvey is overseeing the restoration of Grande Dunes' greens to their original specifications, an effort that will reclaim nearly 40,000-square-feet of putting surface. The new TifEagle ultradwarf bermudagrass greens have been sprigged and are growing in beautifully.

Harvey's team is regularly top-dressing, rolling and cutting the greens. With more than five weeks remaining until Grande Dunes reopens, golfers can look forward to smooth, fast putting surfaces.

Work on the bunkers, which includes coring out the floors and the installation of Capillary Concrete bunker liners is on schedule as well.

The enhancements to the course will be matched by the overhaul of the Grande Dunes clubhouse, which is being renovated to include a new restaurant, greatly expanded outdoor seating, and a larger pro shop.

"We are delighted with the progress in all three phases of the Grande Dunes renovation," said Founders Group International president Steve Mays. "We allowed four months for the completion of the project, ensuring the course will be in spectacular condition from the moment we welcome players back. As we enter the homestretch and you see the grass growing on the greens and the work being done on the bunkers, it only heightens our anticipation. I can't wait to play the course again, and hopefully the golfers who flock to the area this fall feel the same way."

Grande Dunes, which opened in 2001, has been ranked among America's top 100 public courses and has long been regarded as one Myrtle Beach's premier layouts. The course features five holes that play along the Intracoastal Waterway, including the unforgettable, par 3 14th.

The fairways and greens at Grande Dunes are among the area's largest, providing a cushion for mid to high handicappers while challenging more skilled players. Designed by Roger Rulewich, the course has long been one of Myrtle Beach's most sought after tee times.

Founders Group International owns 21 Myrtle Beach golf courses, making it one of the largest management companies in the Southeast, and FGI has aggressively reinvested in its courses in recent years. FGI has also undertaken significant capital improvement projects at Pine Lakes, Aberdeen Country Club, River Hills, Tradition Club and the PineHills and Palmetto courses at Myrtlewood over the last four years.

With additional capital improvement projects on the horizon, FGI is reinforcing its commitment to providing golfers with the best golf vacation experience possible.

For more information on Grande Dunes, visit www.GrandeDunesGolf.com.

www.FoundersGolf.com.