Canadian golf architect Trev Dormer, renowned for his work as an associate for the esteemed team of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, is set to embark on his first solo project. Teaming up with the Andersen family, the developers behind the highly acclaimed Landmand Golf Club in eastern Nebraska, Dormer will bring new life to the nearby nine-hole course at Old Dane Golf Club in Dakota City.
In 2007, the Andersen family acquired an 18-hole course and transformed it into the existing Old Dane layout. Now, Dormer plans to completely renovate the course, introducing a 12-hole routing that can be played as loops of six, nine, or 12 holes across the current 93 acres of flat ground. Furthermore, Dormer’s vision includes the creation of a lake, which will provide fill to introduce exciting elevation changes.
A Vision of Renewal and Innovation
Dormer envisions Old Dane Golf Club as a course with endless possibilities. His goal is to maximize the potential of the property by offering golfers a variety of playing experiences. For instance, he plans to design holes that require tee shots over previous greens, introducing an element of excitement and challenge to the course. Dormer believes that these unique and quirky features will make the game significantly more fun and interesting, sparking intrigue among players.
The current iteration of Old Dane will close its doors in October, making way for Dormer and his team to embark on the extensive renovation project. As part of the transformation, the existing driving range will also be removed. The revamped Old Dane Golf Club, set to be a walking-only course, is expected to open its gates to golfers in 2026.
Despite the renovations and improvements, the operators of Old Dane Golf Club understand the importance of maintaining affordable green fees. The rates are projected to remain similar to the current pricing, with $15 for nine holes and $25 for a double-loop of 18 holes. By keeping the fees reasonable, Dormer hopes to attract a new wave of players, particularly children and families, who will have the opportunity to explore an entirely new course.
A Fresh Start for Old Dane Golf Club
The transformation of Old Dane Golf Club underlines the Andersen family’s dedication to creating remarkable golf experiences. In recent years, they made headlines by enlisting King-Collins Golf Course Design to construct the impressive Landmand Golf Club. Its opening in 2022 marked the establishment of the Golfweek’s Best No. 1 public-access layout in Nebraska and secured the club’s spot at No. 26 among all modern courses in the United States.
Located even closer to the Iowa border, Old Dane Golf Club is a mere 8-mile drive northeast of Landmand. Situated approximately 15 minutes away from Sioux City, Iowa, and in proximity to Sioux Gateway Airport, Old Dane is conveniently accessible to golf enthusiasts in the region.
The decision to choose Dormer as the architect for Old Dane Golf Club’s transformation was a result of a thoughtful conversation with Rob Collins of King-Collins. Impressed by Dormer’s commitment and expertise, the Andersen family firmly believes that Dormer is the ideal candidate to bring their vision to life and take the course to new heights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the plan for Old Dane Golf Club in Dakota City, Nebraska?
Trev Dormer, a prominent golf architect, intends to completely renovate Old Dane Golf Club, introducing a 12-hole routing that will offer various looping options and playing experiences. The renovation includes incorporating a lake to introduce exciting elevation changes to the existing flat ground.
When will the renovations commence, and when can we expect the new Old Dane Golf Club to open?
Old Dane Golf Club will close in October to make way for the renovation project. Dormer and his team will promptly begin the transformation. The updated course, designed to be a walking-only facility, is slated to open its doors to golfers in 2026.
Will the green fees change after the renovation?
The operators of Old Dane Golf Club understand the importance of affordable access to the game. Therefore, they plan to keep the green fees similar to the current rates, with $15 for nine holes and $25 for a double-loop of 18 holes.
What is the vision behind the renovation of Old Dane Golf Club?
Trev Dormer aims to create an engaging and diverse golfing experience at Old Dane. He plans to incorporate unique and quirky design elements, such as tee shots over previous greens, to make the course more fun and interesting. The renovation project seeks to raise questions and intrigue among those who play it.
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