Recent developments from the “ Home of American Golf ” affirm Pinehurst ’ s status as a national golf hub
by CHRIS LANG
As golf has evolved in recent years , so too has Pinehurst , the idyllic area of North Carolina known simply at the “ Home of American Golf .”
Just a short drive or flight away for most Virginians , the Pinehurst , Aberdeen and Southern Pines area of the Old North State is steeped in tradition . Still , the area ’ s courses have an eye toward the future . The USGA is set to make Pinehurst a permanent home in 2022 with the opening of Golf House Pinehurst , but that ’ s not the only new thing happening in the area .
The best thing ? Pinehurst has a little something for everyone , whether you ’ re taking a family vacation , a friends ’ trip , or a solo golf adventure . Let ’ s explore some of the recent developments in Pinehurst area .
COURTESY OF PINEHURST RESORT
THE CRADLE
Opened in 2017 , Pinehurst Resort ’ s nine-hole short course , “ The Cradle ,” has earned the distinction as the “ most fun 10 acres in golf ,” from Golf Channel . Designed by Gil Hanse , The Cradle showcases everything the resort ’ s traditional courses have to offer — intricate bunkering , challenging greens , lush fairways — all in a smaller package .
Read any review of the course , and the same words keep coming up : Accessible , affordable and — most importantly — fun . Holes range from 56-127 yards in length .
For $ 50 , you can take unlimited loops around the 789-yard track . ( Tee times are recommended ). Kids 17 and under play free when accompanied by a paying adult ( two kids to every one paying adult ). The Cradle experience is decidedly non-traditional . Music plays constantly throughout your round , adding to the laid-back , informal vibe . There ’ s no dress code — you can even play barefoot if you want .
LEFT : Pinehurst No . 2 ABOVE : The Cradle
vsga . org J ANUARY / F EBRUARY 2022 | V IRGINIA G OLFER
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