Renowned golf course architect Tom Doak was approached by Pinehurst president Tom Pashley almost two years ago to design the resort’s tenth course. In a remarkably swift project completion timeline of less than 24 months, Pinehurst No. 10 came to life. Doak, known for his minimalist designs that exude character and charm, is highly regarded in the world of golf architecture. His portfolio includes acclaimed courses such as Ballyneal, Barnbougle, Cape Kidnappers, and Pacific Dunes – with six percent of Golf Magazine’s Top 100 Courses in the World bearing his signature.
Pinehurst No. 10, located in the resort’s new Sandmines area, promises to be a standout addition to Doak’s impressive repertoire. With its challenging terrain and visually striking features, the course is poised to become a favorite among visitors. Doak’s meticulous approach to course design, honed over decades in the industry, shines through in the layout of Pinehurst’s newest offering.
While Pinehurst No. 2 remains the crown jewel of the resort, hosting major championships and drawing acclaim from golfers worldwide, No. 10 is set to challenge as a runner-up favorite among guests. Designed to present a unique golfing experience, the course features a mix of demanding holes and more forgiving stretches to cater to players of all skill levels. Notable landmarks on the course, such as the par 4 eighth hole with its towering mound and blind shots, add to the course’s allure.
As with any living landscape, golf courses evolve over time as vegetation matures and the design settles into its surroundings. No. 10 is expected to blossom in the years to come, with native areas flourishing and blueberry bushes adding to the natural beauty of the course. Doak, who has seen some of his earlier works disappear over the years, takes comfort in Pinehurst’s longstanding commitment to course maintenance and preservation.
Reflecting on his career and the evolution of golf course design, Doak shares anecdotes from his early days in the industry and muses on the changing landscape of golf course architecture. He acknowledges the challenges of adding new courses to an already impressive portfolio and emphasizes the importance of maintaining quality and integrity in course design. Pinehurst’s decision to engage Doak for their tenth course speaks to their dedication to offering world-class golf experiences for their visitors.
With Pinehurst No. 10, Tom Doak has once again demonstrated his talent for creating memorable and distinctive golf courses. As players tee off on this newest addition to the Pinehurst lineup, they can expect a challenging yet rewarding round of golf set against the backdrop of North Carolina’s natural beauty. As the course matures and takes its place among the resort’s other offerings, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on golfers seeking a unique and enjoyable golfing experience.
