Latest news with #GilHanse
CBS News
16-07-2025
- Sport
- CBS News
Allegheny Country Club's 11th hole offers stunning view and tough test
Allegheny Country Club's 11th hole is one of the best in the Pittsburgh area and offers both a stunning view and a tough test of golf. The 11th hole at Allegheny has recently undergone a renovation project and as a result, there's a better view from the tee box. "This is my favorite place on this course," said Allegheny Country Club director of golf John Aber. "This is a new tee put in by Gil Hanse. We used to have some trees. Gil took out the trees, added a bunch of fescue. It's just a beautiful view of the rest of the course and the clubhouse. The hole can play as long as 450 yards from the back tees and it usually plays into the wind. If you can find the fairway off the tee, approach shots on or near the green give you a chance to try and scratch out a par. Approach shots that come short of the green will require a difficult, uphill pitch shot and if you go long of the hole, you'll have a slippery putt coming back down the slope. The putting surface on the 11th hole is a slick one and if you can walk away with a par, it's an amazing score. Founded: 1895 Public or Private: Private Location: 250 Country Club Road, Sewickley, PA 15143 Phone Number: 412-741-7500 Website: Course Designer: Tom Bendelow Par: 70 Yardages, Course Rating, and Slope Rating:
Time Business News
12-07-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Belair at The Trump Estates: Where Luxury Meets Prestige
Set within the heart of one of Dubai's most distinguished master communities, Belair at The Trump Estates Phase 2 – DAMAC Hills represents the next chapter in ultra-luxury living. It is where architectural grandeur, elevated lifestyle, and exclusivity converge to offer a residential experience tailored for those who desire the best of both privacy and prominence. This exceptional enclave is a testament to the evolving vision of DAMAC DUBAI, a developer renowned for redefining the benchmarks of luxury real estate across the globe. With every element curated to reflect timeless elegance and modern sophistication, Belair is not just a residence—it's a status. Within Belair at The Trump Estates Phase 2 – DAMAC Hills, homes are not just designed—they are crafted with the ambition to inspire. Each villa features stately facades, grand entrances, expansive layouts, and finishes that rival those found in the finest resorts. These residences are surrounded by lush, private gardens and offer panoramic views of the Trump International Golf Club Dubai, further reinforcing their appeal to those with refined tastes. The enclave is designed for those who expect more than luxury. Here, prestige isn't just perceived—it's built into every corner of your environment. The floor plans are generously proportioned, offering five to seven-bedroom villas with multiple levels, private terraces, pools, and entertainment zones. Interior spaces flow seamlessly from room to room, blending warm natural tones with contemporary textures. Every detail—from imported marble floors to custom cabinetry—exemplifies the commitment of DAMAC DUBAI to deliver properties that resonate with global elegance. Situated within the prestigious DAMAC Hills community, the second phase of Belair enjoys a strategic location that provides both seclusion and connectivity. Major roads link the development to Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and international airports in minutes. Residents of Belair at The Trump Estates Phase 2 – DAMAC Hills enjoy access to everything from international schools and healthcare facilities to fine-dining establishments and wellness centers—all within minutes of their doorstep. At the heart of the Belair experience is access to the world-renowned Trump International Golf Club. With an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Gil Hanse, members and residents can enjoy exclusive clubhouse privileges, fine dining, and leisure spaces that rival the world's top-tier resorts. In addition to the golf course, the community features landscaped parks, jogging tracks, tennis courts, and open-air fitness areas. This is where physical well-being meets indulgence—supported by the infrastructure of a world-class master plan from DAMAC DUBAI. Inside the villas, features such as walk-in wardrobes, smart home integration, spa-style bathrooms, and gourmet kitchens come standard. Everything about the design reflects an understanding of the expectations of today's global elite. The attention to detail across every aspect—from lighting plans to landscaped pathways—ensures that Belair at The Trump Estates Phase 2 – DAMAC Hills is not just opulent but intentional in how it enhances everyday living. While luxury is key, so is peace of mind. The gated community offers 24/7 security, advanced surveillance, and concierge-style services that provide support without intrusion. Residents enjoy the freedom to live in tranquility while being minutes away from the city's vibrant social and economic pulse. DAMAC DUBAI brings a wealth of experience and insight from various global projects. A fitting comparison lies in DAMAC Chelsea Residence, a London-inspired development that blends modern design with European finesse. Though the cultural tone of the project differs, the underlying ethos is the same: a commitment to excellence and elevated living. Where DAMAC Chelsea Residence embodies cosmopolitan urban chic, Belair at The Trump Estates Phase 2 – DAMAC Hills brings this refinement into a suburban setting, surrounded by natural beauty and architectural harmony. Both demonstrate how DAMAC tailors luxury to match lifestyle preferences in distinct global settings. Dubai's luxury property market has consistently attracted investors from around the world, and Belair at The Trump Estates Phase 2 – DAMAC Hills stands as one of the most attractive opportunities. The project's exclusivity, prime location, and premium offerings make it a strong contender for capital appreciation and long-term rental income. Buyers aren't just investing in a villa; they're securing a stake in a globally admired brand, a master-planned community, and the luxury reputation of DAMAC DUBAI. The seamless process offered by DAMAC for international buyers—including property management services, resale support, and residency assistance—makes investing in this iconic development easier and more accessible. Whether as a primary residence, holiday home, or income-generating asset, the project offers versatility and prestige. What sets Belair at The Trump Estates Phase 2 – DAMAC Hills apart is not just its stunning architectural profile, but its role in reshaping lifestyle expectations. This isn't a static living space; it's a dynamic experience that evolves with its residents. Whether enjoying a quiet evening by a private pool or hosting lavish gatherings in expansive entertainment areas, the possibilities are endless. While exclusivity is paramount, the community is designed to foster social connection through thoughtfully curated events, shared spaces, and leisure activities. This rare balance of privacy and community spirit adds another layer to the holistic experience envisioned by DAMAC DUBAI. As with landmark developments like DAMAC Chelsea Residence, Belair aims to leave a lasting legacy. With Phase 2 continuing the legacy of prestige from its successful first phase, it reflects DAMAC's ongoing commitment to offering a lifestyle that surpasses trends and focuses on timeless appeal. In a market filled with promises, Belair at The Trump Estates Phase 2 – DAMAC Hills delivers a statement of presence, purpose, and perfection. With the architectural leadership of DAMAC DUBAI and inspiration drawn from world-class projects like DAMAC Chelsea Residence, this development offers more than a home—it offers a future of unparalleled elegance. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
USA Today
30-06-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
The oldest golf club in Georgia is also the oldest in the U.S., dating back to the 1700s
Golf traces its roots to Scotland in the 1500s, with the modern 18-hole game taking shape in the early 1700s. It would make sense, then, that one of America's oldest cities would have one of America's oldest golf clubs, founded in the late 1700s. The Savannah Golf Club claims to have records that make it the oldest club in America. While it hasn't been in continuous existence, the club boasts that it was the first golf club in the new country. What is the oldest golf club in Georgia? Savannah Golf Club claims to have newspaper clippings in its archives that date the club's founding to be 1794. Using the 1796 issue of the Georgia Gazette, an invitation to the Call to Annual meeting at the club read elect offers and celebrate the anniversary, which historians concluded was the second anniversary of the club, thus dating the club to two years prior. "On record The Savannah Golf Club is the Oldest Golf Club in America and is believed to be the first American city where the game of golf was played," the club's website history reads. The club is only 60 years younger than the city of Savannah, which was established in 1733. What is the Savannah Golf Club? The course was officially incorporated in Chatham County in 1899 and still exists as a private club. It hosts events such as state amateurs championships and GHSA events. The course took shape under famed golf course architect Donald Ross before undergoing a restoration in 2018 by another famous course architect, Gil Hanse, who performed the restoration of Oakmont, host of the 2025 U.S. Open. Located in eastern Savannah, the Savannah Golf Club can be found at 1661 E President Street. You must be a member, with other perks being pickle ball, tennis, swimming, dining and events. Ryne Dennis is the Deep South Connect Team Editor for Gannett/USA Today. Find him on X @RyneDennis and email at rdennis@
Forbes
30-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
A Look Inside Baltusrol Golf Club's $23 Million Course Restoration
The Baltusrol clubhouse and the 18th hole of the restored Upper Course at the club. After a year and a half, Baltusrol Golf Club's Upper Course has been reborn through a meticulous $23 million restoration project overseen by golf architect Gil Hanse, one of the hottest names in the design game. The overhaul follows a similar treatment from Hanse and his team on the Lower Course, with both efforts honoring the championship legacy and historic standing of the club while staying true to the vision of Baltusrol founder, Louis Keller, as well as original architect A.W. Tillinghast. Founded over a century ago in Northern New Jersey – just over 20 miles from New York City -- Baltusrol is home to the first dual championship courses in America, stands as the only facility in the U.S. to have hosted both the men's and women's U.S. Open on both its courses, and in 2014 was granted National Historical Landmark status. When brought on by Baltusrol's executive committee in 2017, Hanse, partner Jim Wagner and team were tasked with a difficult balancing act: to restore Tillinghast's century-old vision while considering advancements in modern agronomic equipment and technology, to provide a fun and challenging test for members and guests of all skill levels, and to ensure that both courses could host championship golf at the highest level. 'Together, the restoration of the Dual Courses marks the most significant investment in Baltusrol's golf infrastructure since Tillinghast arrived on property over a century ago,' said Hanse, who also worked closely with Superintendent Greg Boring on course conditioning throughout restoration. 'And with it, the club is poised to continue its legacy as a preeminent dual course facility in America.' Among the most significant changes: Several of the opening holes of the Upper Course at Baltusrol play along the side of Baltusrol ... More Mountain, offering views of the New York City skyline. Baltusrol Upper While the two courses were originally built at the same time, Hanse said the design of the Lower Course is bolder and more aggressive because Tillinghast 'didn't have as much to work with' in terms of the contour. 'The Upper was a little bit more restrained because he had a better piece of land to work with,' Hanse said at the recent unveiling of the restoration. 'And I think that shows the brilliance of a golf architect and that he understands the limitations of certain sites and what it needs architecturally, and he understands the advantages of certain sites and how you might ultimately soften that. 'From the perspective of the Upper, there had been significantly less done to it, meaning that the Lower had had gotten a lot of the architectural changes in the name of hosting championships. The Upper was this kind of sleepy little golf course that sat up there,' Hanse added, noting there was more excitement working with the latter because it felt you were 'a lot closer to Tillinghast.' Gil Hanse on site of the Upper Course restoration Hanse said he felt a bit of 'extra pressure' working on the Upper Course, even armed with original aerial maps, plans and irrigation plans, including photographs from the 1936 U.S. Open. 'We didn't want to disappoint,' he said. Expanded Sightlines From a visual standpoint, the Upper Course has significantly opened sightlines. This is thanks to substantial tree removal – particularly pine trees that were non-native but planted at one time because they were fast growing -- and canopies on other mature native trees that have been lifted. Those areas have been replaced by native fescue grasses that should improve the habitat for wildlife as well as creating dramatic vistas across the property. 'It presents the golf course in a much better way from the Upper down to the Lower,' said Hanse. 'The views of the Manhattan skyline are spectacular, so you (not only) have longer vistas across the property, but also of the adjoining area. Not that Tillinghast would've seen that skyline, but it's a nice bonus.' Sightlines have been opened with the substantial removal of non-native trees across the property. As Hanse and his team started the restoration, they intended to abandon one of the two greens at the par-4 14th hole, as the upper green that sat six to seven feet above the lower green led to occasional flooding. But when they began their work in earnest, they discovered the original grade and dug out the upper one significantly, allowing the side-by-side greens to again coexist. 'We're going to take a year to look at it and see how it plays,' Hanse said. 'And then we can determine whether it's every other day or whether one green is more fitting for a championship than the other.' The restored double green at Baltusrol's Upper Course Major Championships Hanse said it was the club membership that drove improvements and there wasn't any consultation with major championship organizers such as the USGA or PGA of America. When Baltusrol's Lower Course hosts the 2029 PGA Championship it will be the club's 20th major championship. 'We've built up enough of a relationship with them and enough of a trust that they feel pretty good that we're going to keep them in mind when we're doing the work here,' Hanse said. The work on the 14th hole's double green during the restoration process. The biggest challenge when it comes to restorations is research, noted Hanse, adding that the main demand of new design is figuring out the best way to utilize a piece of property and build the most interesting golf course. With a focus on the vision of the original architect, in this case Tillinghast, Hanse and his team 'kind of take our ego and plug it over here and our design thoughts and keep them out the door.' While new golf course development is on a slight uptick in the post-Covid years – with Hanse and team taking an active role there as well – it's the investment being made in the nation's thousands of existing golf courses that are perhaps the most noteworthy sign of the game's health and vitality. The National Golf Foundation estimated late last year that U.S. courses spent over $3 billion in significant discretionary capital investments, with enhancements ranging from the golf course itself to the clubhouse and other infrastructure. In some ways, the restoration efforts can be like a full rebuilding. Greens have been expanded significantly to their edges, offering up to 25% more "pinnable" hole ... More positions. 'When we're restoring them and trying to bring back what he did, we've got to treat it like a new golf course,' said Hanse. 'We've got to get the scale right; we've got to move things out. We've got to put bunkers in the ground the way they originally were. So, the disruption is bigger in that regard than what might otherwise be some other people's approaches to restoration.' Baltusrol's Upper Course is not only back and better than before, it's fully embraced Tillinghast's architectural genius and the club's championship legacy.
USA Today
27-06-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Classic vs. Modern Courses: Golfweek's Best celebrates the differences and similarities
Why does the Golfweek's Best rating program split courses into two categories, Modern and Classic? The simple answer is the vast differences in building techniques available to architects of different eras. Golfweek's Best uses 1960 as a break point, because it was around that time that technology changed almost everything. As written in our Golfweek's Best rater's handbook, the Classic style of architecture was basically natural with intimate routings that enabled holes to cling to native landforms. Designers were not afraid to utilize dramatic slopes or to sculpt bunkers into artistic shapes utilizing the given features of land. Earth scraping was minimal, as opposed to Modern courses that utilize heavy machinery. Greens were built from native soil that was pushed up and shaped, giving Classic designers enormous freedom to build oddly shaped putting surfaces with more contour than typically seen in the Modern era, when green speeds became much greater. The greater abundance of buildable land in those days also gave architects tremendous creative freedom. Design and construction techniques for courses shifted fundamentally after 1960. Mechanized earth-moving became the norm, and the USGA developed sophisticated methods to build sand-based greens. Most courses required extensive planning, documentation and meticulous excavation. And while the advent of new, high-performance grasses meant better conditions, the quicker putting speeds meant greens could not be built with the same dramatic slope as with many classic courses designed before 1960. The skills required to build a great course became those of professionally trained landscape architects, not just creative golf visionaries. The industry had changed dramatically. In the past several decades, several top architects have combined the two eras in many ways. Design firms helmed by the likes of Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, David McLay Kidd and the team of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw have created golf courses focused on Golden Age sensibilities, strategies and simulations while utilizing modern earth-moving equipment to achieve their goals. The ground game again is in vogue, as is a frequent emphasis on playability. With all that in mind, Golfweek has in recent weeks published our rankings of the best courses from both eras. We hope you enjoy them as a starting point for discussion and as a reference in choosing your next destination. Click here for the 2025 Golfweek's Best ranking of the top 200 Classic courses, and click here for our ranking of Modern Courses.
