Kirk Adkins, retired international executive and agronomist, really kept our attention throughout his amazing program on “The Art and Science Behind the Preparation of the Pinehurst #2 Course for the 2014 US Open”.

We learned that preparation actually started YEARS in advance on the course. We were all aware of the complete renovation of number 2, but the facts around how the USGA actually does so much to insure the course is especially tough (protecting PAR) were amazing. Kirk shared with us many of the tools used by the course team. He also told us that while the course we know and love (?) has a year-round staff of 22, the numbers skyrocketed during the Open to make it fast and exceedingly difficult. We learned about the special silicone sand used to make the greens extra fast and the fact that “Yellow is the new Green” (our hostesses, dressed for St. Patty’s Day, obviously didn’t get the word).

Thanks Kirk for the fabulous learning experience!!!







Before we adjourned Linda shared more news about our Art in Bloom event in April. We made the cover of Pinestraw! What a coups! As a reminder, there’s still time to get your check in to Marilyn for the Friday evening reception, and the Saturday/Sunday viewing is free! Bring a friend… and tell your friends!