High Pointe Golf Club in Williamsburg, MI, is no stranger to those familiar with the golf scene in Northern Michigan. Once a beloved course, it has remained dormant for over a decade. But now, in a highly anticipated move, High Pointe Golf Club is making a comeback and officially re-opened on July 19th, 2024.
We had the opportunity to go behind the scenes with our partners at MiGCSA and witness the remarkable transformation of this course as it prepares for its grand reopening.
A Legendary Rebirth
Tom Doak, the renowned architect who first designed High Pointe in the late 1980s, is back to oversee the rebirth of his first solo project. High Pointe Golf Club originally opened in 1989 and quickly gained acclaim, becoming a fixture in the rankings of top golf courses across the country. The course's unique design, characterized by its reliance on natural topography and minimalist approach, made it a favorite among golf enthusiasts.
Unfortunately, the economic downturn in 2008 forced High Pointe to close its doors. But now, after years of anticipation, Doak and his team have returned to restore and reimagine this iconic course. The reopening of High Pointe Golf Club is more than just a renovation—it's a tribute to the legacy of Doak's work and a testament to the enduring appeal of this course.
Rod Trump’s Vision for High Pointe
Rod Trump, a passionate golfer and successful entrepreneur, has played a pivotal role in the revival of High Pointe Golf Club. Trump, who discovered the course while searching for a golf course to purchase, recognized its potential and partnered with Tom Doak to bring it back to life. As the founder and chairman of High Pointe Golf Club, Trump’s vision extends beyond the renovation; he aims to restore High Pointe as an elite national golf destination. With his background in leveraging innovative technology to disrupt markets and his dedication to golf, Trump's involvement has been instrumental in reimagining High Pointe as a premier golfing experience. His commitment to the course is matched by his philanthropic efforts, including support for veterans and children through the High Pointe Golf Club FORE Foundation.
The Course Breakdown: High Pointe’s Unique Layout
High Pointe Golf Club is situated in the beautiful landscape of Northern Michigan, specifically in Traverse City. The course takes full advantage of its surroundings, with sandy soil and gently rolling terrain that provide the perfect canvas for Doak’s minimalist design philosophy. The original layout, known for its strategic challenges and stunning visuals, remains intact, with a few exciting additions.
The restoration focuses on the back nine, which has been preserved and enhanced to meet modern standards while maintaining the integrity of Doak’s original vision. The front nine, which was lost to development, has been replaced with 12 new holes, seamlessly integrated into the existing landscape.
Each hole at High Pointe tells a story, with the course’s design encouraging golfers to think strategically and embrace the natural beauty of the land. From the challenging par-3s to the longer, more demanding holes, High Pointe offers a golfing experience that is both challenging and rewarding.
High Pointe Golf Club in Traverse City: A Golf Destination Reimagined
High Pointe Golf Club's reopening is not just a local event; it’s a significant moment for the golf community nationwide. Golfers who have long awaited the return of this course will find that it has retained its unique character while embracing modern enhancements. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, High Pointe Golf Club in Traverse City promises an unforgettable golfing experience.
Conclusion: The High Pointe Reopening
As the reopening of High Pointe Golf Club approaches, excitement is building among golfers eager to play this legendary course once again. Our behind-the-scenes look has provided a glimpse into the meticulous work and passion that has gone into restoring and reinventing High Pointe.
If you're interested in learning more about High Pointe Golf Club, its history, or its unique design, be sure to watch the video we filmed on-site, where we delve deeper into the story behind this iconic course. High Pointe Golf Club is set to shine once again as one of the premier golf destinations in Michigan.
Watch our video with High Pointe and MiGCSA right here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tSy7rSlx5I
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