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In the ensuing years, Pollard diverted operating funds and interest to his nearby Arnold Palmer-designed Federal Club venture. As a result, The Hollows property and playing experience suffered.
Enter Bemis, then the general manager at Royal New Kent, who bought the course in September 2008.“ It needed TLC and upgrading,” he says— something he’ s worked on across nearly every aspect of operations, all without an unlimited budget.
For starters, he has resprigged fairways, a few at a time, taking them from common bermuda to Tahoma 34. He’ s also converted the bentgrass greens from Crenshaw to 777. Bemis’ checklist has been endless, exhausting and noticeable.
The upgrades to irrigation, resolution of drainage issues, tree removal and limbing have all contributed to improved lines of play and better course management. Aesthetically, Esther Taylor has added
a horticultural touch to the clubhouse surroundings. Inside, the enhancements to the pro shop, restaurant, bar area and restrooms have been welcome upgrades.
Club membership has risen substantially and now stands at 250. There are men’ s, ladies’ and senior associations with play scheduled three to four nights a week. York, a two-time Virginia long drive champion, calls the men’ s association“ robust.” With 140 members,“ it’ s one of the biggest in the state,” says its president, Warren Roberts. Rounds recorded by women and juniors are up considerably as well.
You ' ll find Andy Bemis rolling around The Hollows in his utility vehicle. Hands-on work includes digging holes to fix underground irrigation issues.
CHRIS LANG( 2), ANDY BEMIS( 2)
12 V IRGINIA G OLFER | M AY / J UNE 2025 vsga. org