Golfers from central Kentucky, and players traveling to Kentucky bluegrass country, can now experience
a challenging, yet fair new-look gem from one of the game’s premier golf course designers
Lexington, Ky. – July 7, 2015 … It’s long been considered a gem of Central Kentucky, but thanks to renowned architect Rees Jones, the golf course at Griffin Gate Golf Club just received a new-look that is sure to please both local golfers, and players traveling into Kentucky Bluegrass Country. Today, officials at the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa in Lexington, Kentucky, unveiled the newly renovated Griffin Gate Golf Course, backed by a $1 million bunker renovation project, under the direction of Rees Jones, who designed the original layout in 1981.
“It has been a rewarding experience upgrading Griffin Gate,” said Rees Jones. “The Rees Jones team, led by Bryce Swanson, and Marriott Golf have brought the golf course into the 21st Century. The ‘refreshed,’ more diversified layout enhances every level of player’s golf experience by providing new challenges each round.”
Highlighting the project, Jones utilized the highly successful Better Billy Bunker Method throughout the golf course. This innovative bunker system is also featured at a collection of the game’s premier golf courses, including Valhalla in Louisville, Bethpage Black in New York and Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, site of the 2016 Ryder Cup. The bunker system is also popular among Marriott Golf facilities, having recently been installed at The Rookery at Marco, located at the Marco Island Marriott Resort. As part of this project phase, approximately 80 bunkers were replaced, reduced or reshaped, while overall the course now has reduced bunker coverage from 133,000 sq. ft. to 80,000 sq. ft.
“This bunker renovation allows us to create more consistent playing conditions for our members and guests,” said Donald Hobbs, Director of Golf, Griffin Gate Golf Club. “As a result, we will greatly enhance a golf course already known for its competitive play, beauty and environmentally friendly appeal.”
“Rees Jones has helped to define all that his great about this golf course, as his design vision appeals to golfers of all playing levels,” said Theona Simbrat, General Manager, Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa. “Griffin Gate finished 2014 ranked #2 in the Marriott Golf portfolio based on overall golf course conditions, and that’s pretty strong company. On the heels of this Rees Jones renovation, we’re now in a position to take the next step in becoming the premier resort golf course destination in this region for years to come.”
In addition to the bunkers and greens complex initiatives, the renovation project included refining the areas around the greens, the re-defining of fairway lines and creating chipping areas to give the course more varied challenges. The combined refinements are expected to further heighten the popularity that Griffin Gate has enjoyed for the last three decades. For more information on Griffin Gate Golf Club, visit www.griffingategolf.com.
About Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa
Enveloped by rolling Bluegrass Country Hills, Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa is a true urban oasis, located near area highways, yet secluded enough for guests to experience scenic Lexington resort ambiance. Guest can enjoy a Lexington, Kentucky, hotel boasting locally inspired décor, convenient work spaces, Marriott signature bedding and the latest in technology enhancements. Completely renovated hotel rooms blend southern hospitality with unsurpassed comfort. From the Rees Jones-designed golf course and pavilion to the Mansion, a meticulously restored 19th century antebellum manor blending tradition and sophistication, events are a unique experience at this hotel in Lexington. Guests can also enjoy a Lexington, KY, hotel that is fresh off a lobby renovation which promotes work productivity and now features food & beverage options from Marriott’s Greatroom 5/10/20 menu. Adding to the experience for guests, The Spa at Griffin Gate offers a variety of treatments that are sure to melt stress and provide complete relaxation. For more information, visit www.griffingategolf.com.
About Marriott Golf
Marriott Golf manages 52 golf courses at 40 locations in 12 countries, offering nearly 1,000 holes of championship golf for seven Marriott International lodging brands. Marriott has been managing golf operations since 1970 and is one of the world’s premier golf operators. Marriott provides golf management and consulting services to a variety of operational environments including resort, private club, daily fee, golf school and franchises. For more information, visit www.marriottgolf.com. Click here for Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR) company information.
Contact:
Jared Minski (jared@mastrocomm.com)
Mastro Communications, Inc. @ 732-469-5700
