Rees Jones Completes Remodel of Griffin Gate Golf Club in Lexington


The course at Griffin Gate Golf Club in Lexington, Ky., has been upgraded. The layout at Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa received a $1 million bunker renovation project under the direction of Rees Jones, who designed the original track in 1981.

"It has been a rewarding experience upgrading Griffin Gate," said 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."

Jones utilized the Better Billy Bunker Method throughout the course. The innovative system is featured at some of the game's premier venues, including Valhalla in Louisville, Bethpage Black in New York and Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minn., site of the 2016 Ryder Cup. The system is also popular among Marriott Golf facilities, having recently been installed at The Rookery at Marco at the Marco Island Marriott Resort in Florida.

At Griffin Gate, approximately 80 bunkers were replaced, reduced or reshaped, while overall the course reduced bunker coverage from 133,000 square feet to 80,000.

"This bunker renovation allows us to create more consistent playing conditions for our members and guests," said Donald Hobbs, director of golf at Griffin Gate. "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," added general manager Theona Simbrat. "Griffin Gate finished 2014 ranked No. 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 alterations to the greens complexes, the project involved refining green surrounds, redefining fairway lines and creating chipping areas to give the course more variety.

For more information, visit www.griffingategolf.com.