Big Upgrades in Store for Carolina Trace CC


Carolina Trace Country Club in Sanford, N.C., has announced its clubhouse and Robert Trent Jones, Sr.-designed Lake Course will undergo major renovations starting March 1.

Located in at the northern edge of North Carolina's famed Sandhills region, Carolina Trace boasts two championship courses (both designed by Jones, Sr.), tennis courts, pool, a fitness center, dining and views of Lake Trace.

"We are excited about this project and the future of Carolina Trace," says David McDonald, president of Ft. Worth-based Escalante Golf, which acquired the club last year. "Robert Trent Jones, Sr. is one of the most respected golf course architects of all time, and it is an honor to restore this classic to one of the top courses in the state. The resulting layout will challenge accomplished and novice players alike."

Phase 1 will be a complete overhaul of the Lake Course and include new leveled, squared tee complexes with additional sets for every skill level. New bunkers will be added, numerous existing bunkers will be relocated and others will be eliminated. All bunkers will be completely rebuilt with new drainage, new liners and the best sand.

Trees that have encroached into the course over the past 40 years will be removed and trimmed to open up sight lines and return the layout to its original playability. All fairways will be re-contoured to provide more consistent and smoother playing surfaces. Finally, the existing asphalt cart paths will be removed and replaced with eight-foot-wide concrete cart paths.

The project is scheduled for a late fall completion. During construction, all play will be directed to the Creek Course.

"Our vision for Carolina Trace entails elevating and enhancing every aspect of the club and member experience," added McDonald. "It begins with the Lake Course and will continue with the clubhouse. Our entire team has been enamored with the club since we first drove through the gates and saw Lake Trace. It is a wonderful community and we are truly excited to be its stewards."

The interior and exterior of the clubhouse will also be getting a major facelift. The majority of the downstairs will be repurposed to accommodate a fitness facility complete with new weight machines and cardio equipment. In addition, a separate area will be built to host various group classes from yoga to Zumba. The men's and women's locker rooms will be completely redone with modern fixtures and accompaniments. Carolina Trace members will have 24-hour access to the equipment, showers and restrooms.

The views of Lake Trace from the back of the clubhouse will be enhanced by creating new outdoor areas for hosting weddings, large parties and club events. The exterior of the clubhouse will be updated with new awnings, balustrades and a cupola on the porte cochere. New shake shingles and board and batten will be added to further enhance the façade, making it more inviting for members and guests.

For more information about Carolina Trace, visit www.carolinatracecc.com.