JOURNAL SPORTS

Southern Trace Country Club members get to tee off at their newly renovated golf course Saturday.

The course has been closed for the last seven month as a $4.2 million renovation project was conducted.

The renovation project was handled under the direction of Southern Trace member and noted design architect Jim Lipe, who worked with the Jack Nicklaus golf design organization.

This was the golf course’s first significant update in its 34-year history. It is part of a long-term plan by members who purchased the country club in 2020.

The renovations included new greens and the redesign of the entire 18-hole course, with new drainage for keeping water away from the course so that members can enjoy it throughout the year. Flooding was an occasional issue, particularly in the spring.

The project also included the complete renovation of the club’s practice facility. Improvements at the practice facility include a larger tee area at the driving range and larger practice putting greens.

“Our investment in golf course refinements and technology will ensure the highest level of playability for our membership for decades to come,” said Alexander Mijalis, Southern Trace Country Club vice president and chairman of the club’s greens committee. “We are excited to see Southern Trace return to the premier status it once enjoyed.”

The renovated golf course is just the first step in long-range strategic plan to update all aspects of Southern Trace. The aquatic facilities, including all three pools, were completely redone in May.

Up next is a phased approach to a major renovation of the clubhouse. The long-range plan also calls for improvements to the racquet sports facilities, the fitness area, the outdoor dining area and a new event space.

Photo courtesy Southern Trace CC