For our last podcast of the year, we're looking back on the road traveled in 2018 and what it means for the future of courses, destinations and resorts throughout North America. Golf Advisor Managing Editor Brandon Tucker is joined by Senior Writers Jason Deegan and Bradley S. Klein. Collectively they've traveled all over the world and share some of the most notable initiatives and innovations to keep an eye on in the world of destination golf - or even courses in your home town.
Golf Advisor Podcast Episode 6: Trends in golf
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Some topics from the discussion:
We kick off the discussion with Silvies Valley Ranch (Jason and Brad have both been) and use it as an opportunity to consider how much more appetite there is in North America for seriously remote golf destinations.
We also discuss the reversible nature of Silvies and talk about how many more reversible courses we may see in urban areas like Atlanta's new Bobby Jones reversible design.
Our staff spent a lot of time at short courses this year, from Pinehurst's new Cradle to Big Cedar Lodge's new Mountain Top. What is the new breed of short courses getting right compared to other eras?
We spotlight some of the resorts in the U.S. that are investing big in their properties. Where is the money going and what does it mean for travelers?
Klein talks about what he's seeing as trends and hot topics amongst private clubs. Not only are there numerous high-profile renovations underway, but membership models are evolving. We talk about the trend of national memberships and other ways members get to play more courses for one monthly fee.
The crew discusses agronomy and maintenance trends, specifically as it relates to overseeding and especially how superintendents are grappling with labor shortages coast-to-coast. Will we see autonomous mowers take off soon?
Deegan discusses the two Bay Area munis that were reborn in 2018: Chuck Corica South and Baylands. That turns into a discussion about struggling munis and finally closed courses we lost in 2018 and consider the wave of courses not yet closed but may someday very soon.
The crew wraps up with their hot topics to watch in 2019, from new courses to munis to distance and equipment.
