History and Renovations of Houston's Sharpstown Golf Course
Table of Contents
History of Sharpstown Golf Course
Sharpstown Golf Course is located in southwest Houston, Texas. It first opened in 1963 as part of the Sharpstown community developed by Frank Sharp. The golf course was designed to be a main recreational amenity for the new suburban community Sharp was establishing.
The 18-hole golf course was designed by acclaimed golf course architect Roy Case. Case designed the course in a traditional parkland style, incorporating the natural prairie terrain. Lush green fairways are lined with native trees and the greens are elevated to provide golfers scenic views.
Early Years and Design
When Sharpstown Golf Course first opened, it measured 6,740 yards and played to a par of 72. The course featured four sets of tees to accommodate golfers of varying skill levels. Sharp made sure the course met championship standards and hosted numerous tournaments over the years.
The practice facilities were also robust for the time, including a driving range, chipping green with bunker, and large putting green. These high-quality practice areas made Sharpstown very popular with recreational golfers across Houston looking to sharpen their games.
Major Renovations
In the early 2000s, the course underwent major renovations led by architect Jeffrey D. Blume. All 18 greens were redesigned and converted to TiffEagle bermudagrass, providing for a better putting surface. All the bunkers were rebuilt and several new championship tee boxes were added.
The renovated course was lengthened to 7,002 yards, presenting a greater challenge for today's golfers. New hybrid bermuda fairways and zoysia rough also improved course playability and aesthetics. Drainage systems enhancements reduced soggy conditions after Houston's frequent rains.
Amenities and Operations
Today, Sharpstown golf course continues to be managed by the City of Houston Municipal Golf. Operations include a full-service pro shop, driving range, club and cart rentals, as well as food and beverage services.
Practice Facilities
The practice facilities were upgraded along with the course renovations in the 2000s. The driving range has multiple target greens and distance markers, along with covered hitting bays. There is also a large short game area to practice chipping, pitching, and sand shots on an expansive green with practice bunkers.
Golf lessons are available from PGA Professionals on staff. Junior golf programs help children learn the game on the course's spacious practice areas.
Tournaments and Outings
The course remains a popular tournament venue, hosting events for high school teams as well as amateur golf associations. The banquet facility overlooks the scenic 18th hole and can accommodate groups for post-tournament meals and celebrations.
Corporate and charity golf events raise significant funds thanks to Sharpstown's excellent event support. Golf outings can range from small groups to over 100 players through active management of course starting times.
Accolades and Reviews
Sharpstown Golf Course has earned many accolades over its 60+ years in operation. It has been consistently ranked among the top municipal golf courses in Texas and the greater Houston area. The parkland style, mature trees, and rolling terrain provide a classic golf experience.
Golfers Love the Renovated Course
Recent reviews praise Sharpstown's renovated greens and fairways as being comparable to many high-end country clubs. Golfers remark on the great course conditions and friendly staff. Pace of play rarely slows thanks to active on-course management.
While some bunkers still await renovations, the improved drainage typically keeps them consistent even after heavy rains. Golfers feel they receive excellent value for the reasonable greens fee rates at Sharpstown.
A Must Play Houston Track
Both visitors and locals rank Sharpstown as a must play golf course when in Houston. Convenient location near the airport makes it easy to access. Players remark that every hole presents a unique challenge with no "filler holes".
The scenery, wildlife and diverse hole designs keep golfers coming back. Overall, most feel reinvigorated by Sharpstown's classic golf test that contrasts beautifully with Houston's modern landscape.
Plans for the Future
Sharpstown Golf Course hopes to remain a premier municipal golf destination in Houston for the next 60 years and beyond. Plans are in place to continually invest in infrastructure improvements and maintain championship conditions.
Remaining Facility Upgrades
There are still some original 1960s era infrastructure elements awaiting upgrades. Bunkers, cart paths, and irrigation systems have enhancements scheduled over the next several years to match the new greens and tees.
Beautification projects will also better showcase the landscape's natural prairie beauty. Enhanced native flower beds, rock lines creeks, and additional oak trees are planned give each hole its own personality.
Growth of Junior Golf
Management aims to attract more juniors and beginners to the game through expanded lessons and clinics. This includes potential partnerships with local schools and youth organizations to provide access and discounts.
There are also plans for a designated short course for youth golfers to develop skills in a fun, stress-free environment before playing the championship course.
Sharpstown Golf Course enjoys a rich history and bright future ahead. The beautifully renovated layout, welcoming staff, and picturesque scenery will continue making memories for Houston golfers for generations to come.
FAQs
When did Sharpstown Golf Course open?
Sharpstown Golf Course opened in 1963 as part of Frank Sharp's development of the Sharpstown community in southwest Houston.
What types of amenities and services are available at Sharpstown Golf Course?
Amenities include a pro shop, driving range, practice facilities, golf lessons from PGA Professionals, club and cart rentals, as well as food and beverage services. The course hosts tournaments, corporate and charity golf events.
What major renovations were done to the course?
In the early 2000s all greens were redesigned, bunkers rebuilt, new tees added. It was lengthened to over 7000 yards with improved fairways, rough, drainage and upgraded practice facilities.
What accolades and reviews has the course received?
It is consistently ranked among the top Houston municipal courses. Golfers praise the renovated conditions as comparable to private country clubs, along with beautiful scenery and wildlife.
What future plans are there for course improvements?
There are plans for upgrading remaining original infrastructure like bunkers and cart paths. Beautification and expansion of junior golf programs are also planned.
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