Erin Hills: A modern classic set to host the 2017 U.S. Open
ERIN, Wis. -- Erin Hills -- a Michael Hurdzan-Dana Fry-Ron Whitten design -- opened in in 2008. Three years later it was hosting the 2011 U.S. Amateur. In 2017, of course, it will host Wisconsin's first U.S. Open.
Set 35 miles northwest of Milwaukee, the course climbs and tumbles over natural dairy cattle pastureland. So what makes it so special?
I posed this question to Dr. Hurdzan, and he provided his thoughts:
"I think that there are many factors that [the USGA] likes: A) [Erin Hills] is in the Midwest close to huge markets like Chicago, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, etc.; B) the course can accommodate upwards of 100,000 spectators per day, all of whom can be close to the action; C) the course can be a stern test of shot-making, strategy, and endurance; D) there is loads of room for corporate areas and parking; E) the course is very photogenic and will look terrific on TV; F) it is a public course; G) Erin Hills' maintenance philosophy is environmentally in tune with the USGA philosophy."
Even the expansive practice facility is special. Dr. Hurdzan calls it "one of the best in golf by any measure."
"This facility has it all, and yet it does not prevent using the rest of the land for another golf course if they should chose to do that," he said.
Most of all, though, Dr. Hurdzan characterizes the course, and the idyllic atmosphere of the grounds, clubhouse, and lodge as "cool."
Visitors to this bucket-list modern classic will agree. The brawny, big-shouldered layout sprawls over a former dairy cattle pasture whose natural landforms were so well suited for golf that land had to be moved on only three holes (nos. 1, 2 and 17). A few blind shots in the original design were removed at the USGA's request, but even the drainage was nearly perfect from the start. The green complexes are some of the most artistically inspired that you will find anywhere.
The waving purple fescue is wispy but tough -- you'll probably find your ball, but trying anything other than wedging it back out into the fairway is risky.
The elevation changes, especially atop the fourth tee box, make for some inspirational moments. Erin Hills is playable for everyone (from the right tees), but can be a bully if the winds are blowing hard.
Although Erin Hills' green fees are steep -- and caddies are recommended, adding to the cost -- this is a must-play for serious golfers. The rustic beauty of the lodge and clubhouse will make you want to stay long after your round is over. So book a night in the lodge and replay for a steep discount the next day.