Scot Sherman, ASGCA, recently oversaw renovations at the University of Florida’s Mark Bostick Golf Course, including improvements to the greens, bunkers, practice area and landscaping.
The project comes 13 years after Sherman and Bobby Weed, ASGCA, designed a new $4 million course for the University in 2001. The 2014 renovation included stripping, contouring, and re-grassing all greens with Champion Ultradwarf bermudagrass; reconstruction of bunkers including redesign of many throughout the course; renovation of the team practice area; irrigation upgrades; landscape improvements, and some tree removal to alleviate playability and shade issues. The course closed on May 19 and re-opened for play on Aug. 28.
“I am amazed how quickly 13 years has flown by”, said Sherman. “During those years, the University’s course has gotten a lot of use and it was time to make some upgrades – that’s what happens as golf courses age.”
Originally designed by ASGCA-founding-member Donald Ross in 1921, the 2001 project involved re-routing, re-designing, and replacing everything on site – including the maintenance facility. “The quality of the 2001 work allowed this 2014 renovation to be completed quickly, efficiently and economically,” said Sherman. “This summer’s project focused on infusing the layout with updated technology to carry the course through the next couple of decades. The newest turfgrass, bunker sand and irrigation technology have been brought to the site and will help challenge future generations of Gator golfers. The condition of the golf course is certainly better than ever.”
The course has been home to the Gators’ golf teams through five NCAA national championships (including 2001) and 21 SEC championships since 1962. Several prominent golfers have called the course their home including Billy Horschel, Camilo Villegas, Chris DiMarco, Sandra Gal, Lori Garbasz, Mark Calcavecchia, Gary Koch, Andy North and Steve Melnyk.