Earlier this week, John LaFoy was back on property overseeing our sprigging of the greens on the first nine holes and practice green. Mr. LaFoy used his original drawings to recreate the plans for the green elevations and contours. I was lucky enough to spend the day with our agronomic team on Tuesday as we sprigged these greens. I can tell you firsthand that the contours will certainly change the way that this golf course will play. As we meticulously walked each section and square foot of the greens, I was planning my own strategy for playing to certain hole locations. Rest assured that we’ll have plenty of options when setting up the golf course each day. I have always felt that a great golf course is one that you can play every day and never get tired of the daily challenges and variations. With our countless options for hole locations and the movement of the tees, this will be one of those experiences.
Now that we’ve sprigged the front nine holes, this Tuesday we’ll be applying the sprigs to the inward nine holes. Within three to four weeks, we’ll begin walk mowing the greens as they mature to become premier putting surfaces. Until then, we’ll keep them moist while the summer A group of people working in a field
Description automatically generated with medium confidenceheat helps them grow. For those of you who live on Cat Island, you will see the irrigation system working overtime as it is imperative to keep the sprigs moist without a deluge of water. You may also notice a few areas on the golf course where water seems to be flowing uncontrollably. Those are areas where we relieve pressure on the system while the pump is activated and are not a random geyser or leak. But make no mistake, to those of you who keep an eye on our golf course and call me when there is a problem, perceived or otherwise—it is genuinely appreciated. We are counting on each of you to help us as you see issues that may be a problem. Never hesitate to call me or come by the clubhouse when you have a concern.
Now that the greens are “in the oven” and we continue to monitor their progress, we are expanding our efforts to the bunkers, lake banks, fairways, and roughs. Mr. LaFoy painted out the bunker plans and our construction teams are forming those bunkers to his specifications. Soon, we’ll be surrounding those areas with Zoyzia sod and adding beautiful white sand to the bunkers to catch your eye and an occasional “unlucky” bounce.
The fairways, rough and lake banks are all on our immediate radar for the next few weeks. The process of weed control, fertilization and mowing has already begun and will continue as fairways will eventually be cut in to show the definition of the rough and green surrounds.
Our team continues to grow in numbers. This week, our new Assistant Golf Course Superintendent, Joey Lama joined our team from North Carolina. Joey attended Ferrum College near Roanoke, Virginia and has been in the industry for a little over 2 years. We’re thrilled to welcome Joey to our team as his passion for the industry has already been on full display during his first week on site. AND in LATE BREAKING NEWS, our Golf Course Superintendent, Ben McNair and his bride Kelsey welcomed baby Lyla earlier today. Both mom and baby are in great health and will be back home soon. Congratulations to the McNair’s from the entire Cat Island family!
Our social calendar is also growing. On Thursday, August 25th at 6:00 PM we will be hosting our Burgers and Brews Night at the pool. Pawley’s Island Brewery will be in attendance with their wide variety of beers to taste and purchase. Our Culinary team will be serving a Burger Bar with your choice of condiments and customizations. The air will be filled with live music and good vibes. Please note that this event is for Members and their invited guests only. Members, please RSVP to me and include the names of your guests when making your reservation. Remember, we want to grow the club with people just like you, so please invite your friends who may be thinking about membership at Cat Island Club. We’ll be sure to show them a good time. The price for the night is $22.00 per person, which includes the beer tasting, burger bar, live music, and fun. Guests of Members are $25.00 per person and will be charged to your member account. If beer is not your thing, fret not, as the bar will also be open and serving all of your favorite beverages. This event will be under the Cabana—rain or shine!
Finally, we have our first arrival of Cat Island Swag available at the clubhouse. We have the immensely popular long sleeve tee shirts with SPF 50 for all you boaters, fisherman and casual wear. These shirts are screen printed with our new Cat Island Logo. Stop by the clubhouse to be the first to show your Cat Island pride in Beaufort. The shirts are $44.00 each and remember, this weekend is tax free!
So, each day we get a little closer to opening the golf course and creating the member experience. You’ll see plenty of new additions from little things like pool umbrellas and some bigger additions like new equipment on the golf course. Please continue to follow our progress on our social media outlets to stay aware on all things Cat Island Club. We are certainly making an impact and we couldn’t be more excited or proud. Have a great weekend and please stay safe.