'Golden Bear' visits his course in North Barrington
Nicklaus was excited to have the opportunity to see Wynstone since last visiting the course in 1991.
#8220;When we designed Wynstone we had to create a #8216;now' golf course, meaning that the course had to be ready to play on day one,#8221; he said. #8220;Members and residents would not have to wait five or 10 years for maturity. I take great pride in seeing the course look so good today and to see how well it's been cared for.#8221;
Nicklaus spent the morning touring the course with members of Wynstone Golf Club as well as Superintendent Ben McGargill and Head Golf Professional Andy Phelan. The tour was filmed and will be featured on the September edition of the Chicago District Golfer TV show.
The show can also be viewed on the CDGA website throughout the month.#8220;My philosophy when designing golf courses these days is to make the courses more relevant to the average player, with a blend of longer and shorter holes,#8221; Nicklaus said. #8220;Even though the course can play over 7,000 yards, Wynstone has a nice blend of holes. When Wynstone was being built, many golfers were still playing with wound balls, steel shafts and wood drivers (the Golden Bear actually used a persimmon wood driver to win his final Masters in 1986).
#8220;One of the reasons I like to revisit my courses is to recommend changes to adjust to the advances in the technology of the game.#8221;
#8220;Today was a really special day,#8221; said Wynstone member and club President Brian Husselbee. #8220;Jack spent several hours looking over his magnificent golf course and provided us with incredible insight into his design thoughts.
#8220;We are so fortunate to have a living legend that cares so much about our club.#8221;
Nicklaus also addressed a sold-out member luncheon highlighted by a silent auction of autographed memorabilia raising money for several charitable causes.
Wynstone Golf Club is a private country club within a 440-home, gated community in North Barrington. The club has over 250 members from throughout the local area.
For more information on Wynstone Golf Club, visit www.wynstone.org.