News Summary
The Atlanta Athletic Club is set to embark on a significant renovation of its Highlands Course beginning in early 2028. This project, led by architect Andrew Green, aims to enhance the golf experience while honoring the course’s rich history. As part of a broader capital funding plan, the upgraded course will continue hosting prestigious tournaments, solidifying AAC’s standing in the golfing community. With previous successful renovations and a commitment to provide exceptional golfing experiences, the future looks bright for this iconic venue.
Exciting Future Ahead: Atlanta Athletic Club to Revamp Highlands Course!
The vibrant world of golf is buzzing with excitement as the Atlanta Athletic Club (AAC) gears up for a monumental renovation of its renowned Highlands Course. This thrilling project, set to kick off in early 2028, is part of a well-thought-out capital funding master plan approved by the club’s enthusiastic membership. After over a decade of captivating golfers, the Highlands Course is ready for a fresh makeover, and golfers everywhere are eager to see what’s in store!
Architectural Magic Awaits
Andrew Green, the talented mind behind some exceptional golf course renovations, has been chosen to lead the transformation. Green, hailing from AH Green Design, has a track record boasting impressive redesigns at prestigious locations, including the Inverness Club in Toledo, Oak Hill Country Club’s East Course in Rochester, and East Lake Golf Club right here in Atlanta. With his expertise, the Highlands Course is poised to elevate its charm and playing experience.
Timelines and Expectations
As the planning phase kicks into gear in the coming months, excitement is brewing among club members and golf enthusiasts alike. Construction is slated to begin in early 2028, and it’s expected to bring a fresh wave of energy to this iconic course. The Highlands Course has a rich legacy, having hosted prestigious tournaments including the U.S. Open in 1976, three PGA Championships, and the recent KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in 2021. The upcoming renovations aim to enrich this extraordinary golfing history.
Building on Success
Interestingly, the Highlands Course isn’t the first part of AAC to undergo a transformation. The club successfully renovated its Riverside Course in 2022, under the skilled hands of architect Tripp Davis. This renovation meticulously focused on improving routing, playing strategy, and visual aesthetics. The results were fantastic, as evidenced by it earning second place nationally in Golf Digest’s Best Transformation category in 2023. It’s clear that AAC is dedicated to providing top-notch golfing experiences!
Future Tournaments on the Horizon
Looking ahead, AAC is gearing up to host the U.S. Girls Junior Championship at the Riverside Course in July 2023 as part of its commitment to showcasing talent. In 2030, the club will also host the U.S. Amateur, involving both the Highlands and Riverside courses, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the legendary Bobby Jones’ Grand Slam achievements. Additionally, expect to see the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship gracing the Highlands Course in 2035, solidifying AAC’s reputation as a hub for golfing excellence.
Historical Significance and Modern Enhancements
Born in 1898 and relocated to its current site in 1969, AAC has cultivated a rich historical footprint in the golfing community. As one of Georgia’s top private clubs, the Highlands Course ranks No. 8 on Golfweek’s Best list and ties for No. 129 on their list of modern courses in the U.S. Originally a nine-hole layout established in 1967, it expanded to 18 holes under the creative guidance of golfing legends Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Joe Finger. The most recent renovation took place in 2016, and the current updates are expected to further elevate the golfing experience.
The Power of Golfing Experiences
Green’s vision for the renovated Highlands Course aims to create unique golfing experiences that will challenge elite players while maintaining enjoyment for more casual golfers. This balanced approach means that whether you’re a seasoned pro or hitting the greens for a leisurely round, the new Highlands Course will cater to your golfing dreams.
So, keep your clubs ready! The Atlanta Athletic Club’s elevated Highlands Course is set to shine brighter than ever in 2028. The thrill of improvement and the nostalgia of history will combine seamlessly, offering an unforgettable golfing experience for years to come!
