Players’ Reactions to the Renovation at Colonial Country Club
Led by the team of Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner, Colonial Country Club underwent a significant $20 million renovation over the last 12 months, starting immediately after the final round of the 2023 Charles Schwab Challenge. The renovation aimed to restore the course to its original design by John Bredemus and Perry Maxwell.
Defending champion Emiliano Grillo will be competing against a strong field that includes world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, Jordan Spieth, Collin Morikawa, Max Homa, Tony Finau, and Sungjae Im.
Here’s what some of the pros are saying about the renovated course in Fort Worth:
Tom Hoge: ‘Super excited about the greens’
Tom Hoge, during the second round of the Fort Worth Invitational, expressed his enthusiasm for the greens. “I really wouldn’t speak a whole lot to the architecture changes there. I feel like I need to play it a few times to get a good feel for that. Super excited about the greens this week. I feel like they’re probably the best greens we’ll play on all year. They’re firm and will present a great challenge.”
On what’s special about the greens: “Just how smooth they roll really. I’ve been in the area since college in 2007, and these bent grass greens usually get soft in the heat. But this week, they look more like Bermuda grass, firm and rolling out well. It changes strategy; you have to be in the fairway to control your approach. The course will play more difficult as a result.”
Adam Scott: ‘A freshen-up is nice’
Adam Scott, reflecting on his past victories, noted the positive changes. “I think the 8th hole is great and a significant improvement. Generally, everything feels like a nice change. It still feels like Colonial Country Club, and the improvements are subtle but effective.”
On calling it a refresh: “Classic old golf courses, especially on the PGA Tour, benefit from high-standard agronomy. Fresh grass makes a difference whether you’re a member or playing the tournament. The new grass feels fresh and plays well. Gil’s approach maintained the character of the course gently.”
Jordan Spieth: ‘The first start in the new Colonial era’
Jordan Spieth, a multiple-time winner at Colonial, praised the renovation. “It’s my 12th start here, but really the first start in the new Colonial era. Gil did a really good job making it playable for members and challenging for us. It’s tough to balance modern play with traditional design, but he’s done that well. I’ve heard good reviews from members and professionals, and I’m excited for the tournament.”
On what he said to Gil Hanse: “I told him he did a great job. Some of the classic pin locations and slopes are maintained, which is cool. It’s interesting to see familiar putts on new greens. It’s a blend of old and new that keeps it challenging.”
Ryan Palmer: ‘I was a little nervous’
Ryan Palmer, a local favorite, shared his thoughts on the renovation. “It’s been a crazy year for Colonial, but Gil Hanse and his team did an amazing job. The membership is excited, and it’s cool to see it all come together. I was nervous for the course, but the feedback has been positive.”
On his favorite part of the renovation: “The redo of the greens, including the hydronics system, is fantastic. It keeps the greens firm and consistent in all weather. This year, the course will play firm and fast. It’s great to see the historical aspects of the course coming back to life.”
On his role in the renovations: “I was involved in conversations and gave input from a Tour perspective. We wanted to maintain the character of the course, and Gil did that. The changes, especially on number 8, are impressive. The feedback from players has been positive, and I’m excited for the future of the course.”
