Poppy Ridge---One Year Later

We’ve received a number of questions from members since the re-opening of the new Poppy Ridge a year ago. We thought it’d be helpful to share the 10 most frequently asked questions—and of course give you the answers!

1. What is new about the 18-hole golf course?
Everything. The 18-hole championship golf course has been completely reimagined and redesigned on the site of the former course. The new routing improves walkability, playability and variety throughout all 18 holes.

2. What kind of turf is used in the fairways and tee boxes?
The tees, fairways, and surrounds are all Santa Ana Bermuda grass which was carefully selected to support outstanding playing conditions while becoming more efficient from a water use perspective.

3. Who designed the golf course?
The course was designed by architect Jay Blasi.

4. Are there still 27 holes?
Yes and no. There are still 27 holes on property, however Poppy Ridge now features two separate golf courses. An 18-hole championship course along with a fun, shorter 9-hole layout called The Ridge 9. The previous 27-hole rotation is no longer in operation.

5. Why did the NCGA decide to renovate the golf course?
The course required significant irrigation upgrades, and the NCGA took the opportunity to create a premier facility for its members, one that is more conducive to walking and capable of hosting NCGA championships.

6. How long was the course under renovation, and when was it completed?
Renovation of the 18-hole course began in April 2024, and the course reopened for play on May 31, 2025.

7. What makes the golf course unique?
Several features set the course apart:

• Wide, receptive fairways that are cut uniformly up to the native grass lines and green collars (no traditional rough).
• Ribbon tees that flow directly into the fairways, using the same turf and height of cut.
• Bunkering designed to guide play rather than punish it, helping direct golfers toward safer landing areas.
• The course includes five par-5s and five par-3s, with each par-3 showcasing its own distinct character, challenge, and uniquely contoured greens.

8. Is the course suitable for all skill levels?
Yes. On the scorecard, there are five different tee options to accommodate players of all skill levels with yardage ranging from just over 4,000 yards to over 7,000 yards in addition to the combo tee options.

9. What are the signature holes?
It depends on who you ask. There are two standout holes that can be considered the signature holes (Nos. 6 and 16) but every hole is memorable for its own reason.

• Hole No.6 is a short par-4 offering a risk reward option. Players can take an aggressive line at the green for a short approach or play it safer by laying up to the heart of the fairway on the right and leave a full shot into the green, though the green is uniquely protected by large, volcano-like mounding that can create a blind shot on the aggressive line.
• Hole No. 16 sits at one of the highest points on the course, offering great views. It is another short par-4 where longer hitters may attempt to drive the green but risk landing in large Himalaya style bunkers or collection areas.

10. What should first-time players know?
The course is designed such that players can attack the golf course through the air or on the ground. Study the areas around the greens as there are often kicker slopes that can help feed the ball onto the green towards the hole. With a lot of short grass around the greens, players can play nearly any club in their bag within 30 yards.