What's Happening?
Pinehurst Resort has announced that its newest golf course, Pinehurst No. 11, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, will open for play on March 29, 2027. This opening date is approximately six months earlier than the previously projected fall 2027 target.
Pinehurst No. 11 is the first original design by Coore and Crenshaw at the resort and is situated at Pinehurst Sandmines, a 900-acre former mining property located a few miles south of the main clubhouse, adjacent to Tom Doak's Pinehurst No. 10. The land has a rich history, having been used for sand and gravel mining from the 1930s through the 1950s, which left behind unique ridges, spoil piles, and man-made landforms. Coore and Crenshaw designed the course to incorporate these unusual landforms, with Coore describing the result as 'Weirdly Wonderful.' Upon its opening, Pinehurst Resort will boast 207 holes of golf, making it the resort with the most golf holes in the United States.
Why It's Important?
The early opening of Pinehurst No. 11 signifies a significant expansion for Pinehurst Resort, solidifying its position as a premier golf destination in the U.S. The addition of a new course by renowned architects Coore and Crenshaw, known for their minimalist and naturalistic designs, is expected to attract a substantial number of golf enthusiasts. This development will boost tourism and economic activity in the Pinehurst area of North Carolina, benefiting local businesses, hospitality services, and employment. The unique design, which embraces the historical mining landscape, offers a distinct golfing experience that differentiates it from other courses. Furthermore, the increase to 207 holes of golf positions Pinehurst as a leader in the golf resort industry, potentially drawing more national and international visitors and further enhancing the region's reputation as a golf mecca. The contrast between No. 10 and No. 11, as highlighted by resort president Tom Pashley, also suggests a strategic approach to offering diverse golfing experiences.
What's Next?
With the opening date set for March 29, 2027, Pinehurst Resort will focus on finalizing preparations for Pinehurst No. 11. This includes completing any remaining construction or landscaping, staff training, and marketing efforts to promote the new course. The resort is already taking tee-time inquiries and offering golf packages that include No. 11. Golfers and travel agencies will likely begin making reservations in anticipation of the opening. The resort will also need to manage the integration of No. 11 into its existing operations, ensuring a seamless experience for guests. The success of No. 11 could also influence future development plans at Pinehurst, potentially leading to further expansions or enhancements to its golf offerings. The golf community will be keenly observing how the 'Weirdly Wonderful' design is received and how it contributes to the overall Pinehurst experience.
Beyond the Headlines
The creation of Pinehurst No. 11 by Coore and Crenshaw represents more than just a new golf course; it embodies a philosophy of design that respects and integrates with the natural and historical landscape. By building the course around the unique landforms left by mining, the architects have transformed a former industrial site into a recreational asset, showcasing a sustainable approach to land use. This project highlights a growing trend in golf course architecture towards designs that are less intrusive and more harmonious with their environment, often repurposing existing terrain rather than extensively reshaping it. The 'Weirdly Wonderful' character of the course, with its choppy, ridgey ground reminiscent of links golf, offers a unique aesthetic and strategic challenge that could influence future golf course developments. It also underscores the enduring appeal of Pinehurst as a destination that continually innovates while honoring its rich golfing heritage.
