This article originally appeared in the August issue of NCGA Golf Magazine
El Macero Country Club in El Macero is poised to have a new look beginning in September.
A multi-million dollar course renovation project, which began in April, has been completed by Golf Plan Dale & Ramsey Golf Course Architecture and DHR Golf Construction.
As part of the project, all 18 green complexes were rebuilt, softening their shapes to allow water to flow away from the greens. Green surfaces were sodded with TifTuf, a drought-tolerant hybrid Bermuda grass known for its durability, beauty and low maintenance needs, while collars around the greens were sodded with bentgrass. The square footage of bunkers across the golf course was reduced by 60%, with the renovated bunkers receiving new drainage, liners and sand. The updated bunkers also have more points of entry, easing access and enhancing course conditions.
“We’re excited about the course renovation and the improvements that were made,” said El Macero Country Club General Manager Chris Johnson. “The new pure white sand will be a dramatic difference visually, while members will be given different shot options around the greens with newly designed collection areas and reduced bunker footprints. The turf conditions of the green surrounds will also perform better throughout the year compared to the previous common bermudagrass.”
In addition to the golf course improvements, El Macero Country Club broke ground on a new Pickleball Court Complex. Four new pickleball courts are expected to be ready for member-play by early September.
El Macero CC was founded in 1961 by C. Bruce Mace as part of the El Macero property development. In 1966, the members purchased the club from the Mace family. Located about 10 miles west of Sacramento, El Macero Country Club meanders through the El Macero development and encompasses about 168 acres within beautiful residential surroundings.
The Club’s 18-hole parkland-style championship course was designed by course architect Bob Baldock in 1961 and stretches to more than 6,860 yards. Notable golfers to play El Macero include Byron Nelson, Joe DiMaggio, Ronald Reagan, Peter Jacobsen, Tiger Woods and Nick Watney. The Club has been managed by Troon Privé since 2007.
For more information on El Macero Country Club, visit elmacerocc.org.