Cragun's Resort finishes extensive renovation

The multi-year golf course rnovation at Cragun’s Resort — covering all 45 holes at the Brainerd, Minnesota, destination — is finished.

PGA Tour Champions player and course architect Tom Lehman led the ceremonial unveiling of the final nine holes, now known as Dutch Red. The renovation of that last track includes new bunkering, four redesigned greens and fresh green surrounds. The routing remains the same, but significant reshaping and clearing have enhanced scenic views across the course.

Among the more noticeable changes is the improvement in playability on holes Nos. 3 and 4. The third hole now boasts a dramatic change in the landing area off the tee, nearly doubling the size of the fairway. The new green was moved 50 yards back with a soft chipping area surrounding the entire green, making the hole much more enjoyable for all skill levels.

The fourth hole, meanwhile, is now a drivable par 4, previously guarded by a series of bunkers and a cart path along the left side. The renovation relocated the bunkers to new strategic areas and moved the cart path to the right side.  

Matt McKinnon has been the resort's director of golf course maintenance since 2008. He was the golf course superintendent for the 10 years before that.

Cragun’s will host the PGA Tour America’s CRMC Championship for the fourth year, starting August 28.

Source: GolfCourseIndustry.com