After undergoing a comprehensive agronomic restoration, the King & Bear Golf Course at World Golf Village near St. Augustine, FL., will officially reopen on Oct. 4, with members and public guests to experience enhanced playing conditions and revitalized turf across the course.
This five-month, $2.5 million dollar restoration, led by MacCurrach Golf of Jacksonville, FL., focused on improving the course’s playability while preserving its original character. A key highlight of the project involved resurfacing all 18 greens, as well as the putting and chipping areas, with TifEagle Bermuda grass. This premium grass was selected to provide smoother, more consistent putting surfaces. Additionally, the practice areas were upgraded with new Bermuda grass, ensuring lush, healthy turf year-round.
Improvements also included significant upgrades to the irrigation and drainage systems to promote water conservation, enhance turf health, and provide optimal playing conditions throughout the year. All bunkers were refreshed with new liners and sand, with eight receiving full renovations to improve drainage and consistency.
“Our goal with this restoration was to elevate the playing experience while maintaining the integrity of the course’s original design,” said Lon Grundy, Chief Operating Officer of World Golf Village’s King & Bear and Slammer & Squire courses. “We’re excited to welcome golfers back to enjoy these improvements and experience a course that is both visually stunning and exceptionally playable.”
Managed by Troon, the King & Bear Golf Course is renowned for its scenic beauty, with fairways framed by pristine lakes, towering loblolly pines, and majestic oak trees. Most notably, the course is the only design collaboration between two of golf’s greatest legends – Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus.
Photo Courtesy of Troon