TPC Four Seaons at Las Colinas gets PGA Tour approval
The PGA Tour approved the redesign of the TPC Four Seasons at Las Colinas in Irving, Texas to host the EDS Byron Nelson Championship.
Below are some details on the changes.
Every hole was redesigned with new tees, fairways and greens. Square tee boxes created a more traditional look. Much of the mounding was softened, creating better sight lines for players and improved views for fans. White-faced bunkers added definition to fairways and greens. And about 200 yards were added.
Weibring turned one of the least favorite holes, No. 11, into what could be an exciting, drivable par-4. He enhanced No. 17, the popular par-3, by clearing viewing areas on both sides and around the green. A stadium feel was created with grandstands and luxury boxes framing the hole. The 18th hole is highlighted by a series of four ponds with waterfalls.
The 11th sounds intriguing - the 18th sounds boring. White faced bunkers sounds typical and not at all Texan.
Looking at player/architect D.A. Weibring’s website where he discusses the changes, we find more detail.
Every tee box, green and bunker has been redone. About 165 trees have been moved.
Other parts of the landscape have been altered for shot value and to improve views. Mounds have been softened. A new irrigation system is in place. It’s a clean, less-is-more look that should intrigue pros, members and resort guests. When fans arrive at the April 24-27 tournament, they will find open viewing areas that will bring them much closer to the action.
Removal of trees sounds great. It would be nice to know what “softening” means to mounds. I have no idea what the cliche “clean, less-is-more” has in the context of golf course design.
“You hear competitive and you hear challenging, but the word you have to hear is fun,” Weibring said. “It’s got to provide all levels of player the visual opportunities to play a shot. Do they have a bailout? Can they bounce the ball on the green? Will they remember the holes?”
I think Weibring meant bounce the ball on TO the green. Weibring was very critical of Pete Dye’s design at Whistling Straits with regards to the ground game, so it will be interesting to see if the TPC actually does allow for the ability to play a ground attack.
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What a great shot from the sky! I love techology! Your explanations of the course changes is excellent! I appreciate you taking the time to put this together.