Pinehurst Bewery
and Mid Pines . Franz supervised restorations at both clubs . Southern Pines is a Donald Ross original that opened in 1906 . Much of the restoration work focused on the removal of 700 trees that allowed for widening of fairways and greater playability for the beginner while allowing for the more advanced player to still strategize .
A neat feature at Southern Pines — which re-opened late last summer — is the new par-3 hole between the 4th and 15th tees . The 120-yard hole is close to the site of Ross ’ ‘ lost hole ’ that is visible in aerial photos from the 1930s and 1940s but was abandoned in the 1970s . The hole features a sand green at 100 yards , short of the main green , similar to what Ross designed originally in the 1910s .
At Dormie Club , capital improvements have not only allowed for the restoration the turf at the Coore & Crenshaw design to its pristine 2010 condition , but also allowed for infrastructure improvements that make the club a true stay-and-play destination .
LEADING LADIES RETURN
Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club will be the center of the women ’ s golf universe in June , as it will host the 77th U . S . Women ’ s Open from June 2-5 . It ’ s been 15 years since the club hosted the event , as Cristie Kerr posted a 5-under-par 279 to claim victory in 2007 . Since then , only three Americans have won the national championship , including Michele Wie at nearby Pinehurst No . 2 in 2014 . Interested in attending ? Tickets are available for as little at $ 35 a day at
usga . org .
GOOD LIBATIONS
The craft beer scene has exploded in the last few years in the area , mirroring growth in the industry across the country . Pinehurst Brewing Company , owned by the resort , is the most recognizable name . Along with beer , PBC features great brisket and pulled pork barbecue , along with wings and pizza . Three other breweries in the area are ex-military owned : Southern Pines Brewing Company , Hatchett Brewing Company in Southern Pines , and Railhouse Brewery in Aberdeen . For another fun diversion , check out Drum and Quill Public House , a storied tavern with an extensive list of spirits whose bar is housed in a 130-year-old magistrate judge ’ s chamber .
We ’ ve merely scratched the surface on what Pinehurst has to offer . For more information and to plan your perfect Pinehurst vacation , visit
homeofgolf . com .
J ANUARY / F EBRUARY 2022 | V IRGINIA G OLFER 37