driving range with six target greens, coupled with an artificial turf station and dry dock for use during periods of inclement weather, a three-holed short course and an additional putting green for a truly exceptional practice facility. Discussions began in 2011 on enhancing the properties practice facility and producing an area dedicated solely to improving members short game. The removal of two of the previous five-hole short course holes in favour of renovating for a better use of land was approved. Designed by architect Tom McBroom. “The five hole short course was intended to be a five hole mini golf course, but what happened was the parcel of land the SGA sits on became a multi-purpose practice area,” says Scully. “We looked at how we could improve that piece of land and use it to its full potential. We are never satisfied with status quo.” The SGA was designed for the membership in such a way that numerous shot scenarios from the 18-hole course were duplicated allowing golfers to become better prepared for certain situations when playing a round. The putting green was structured with minimal slope and undulation with the intention of golfers focusing on their putting stroke. Safety was also a priority in the design, but freedom with regards to the layout and the shots you can practice accommodates the facility well. “We wanted it to look good, play good, but also play properly, so it was designed in a way that a large amount of people can use it,” states Scully. “The SGA offers an infinite variety of shots with no limitations to how you want to work on your game.” Granite Golf Club places the highest priority on providing and maintaining the same quality conditions as the golf course. “All bentgrass was seeded to L-93 to keep the theme and duplicate the conditions of the golf course. Everything is cut and maintained to the same specs as the golf course.” Continued on page 10…
Fall 2013 • Green is Beautiful 9