Now officially over a year since re-opening, the new Championship Course at NCGA member course Poppy Ridge continues to receive recognition.
In May, Golf Inc. Magazine announced that the Championship Course at Poppy Ridge, which was designed by architect Jay Blasi, tied for third place in the Public Course/Resort category for Best Renovation of 2026.
As the article notes: “Poppy Ridge Golf Course desperately needed to improve its infrastructure. The irrigation system, drainage system, cart paths, greens and bunkers were all in need of replacement. There was also an opportunity to make the golf course far more sustainable, playable and walkable.
The golf course was rerouted, and every aspect of the golf course was completely rebuilt. The new tees, fairways and surrounds are Santa Ana bermudagrass, which uses far less water than before and is easy to maintain. The green complexes are larger, which spreads out wear patterns and ball marks. The bunker footprint was reduced to 75,000 square feet and the new drainage throughout the course keeps the surfaces firm and fast year round.
Wider fairway landing areas offer open entrances to greens, eliminate forced carries, reduce the shots with water in play and place bunkers in strategic locations. Tees were added both forward and back, with most holes offering 150 yards of teeing options, so that players of all abilities can find the course that is best for them.”
What the judges said:
The infrastructure improvements stand out, particularly the water savings achieved through reduced turf acreage and switch to drought-tolerant turf. Add in the changes to enhance walkability and the strong use of natural landforms and the result is an outstanding renovation. – Don Mahaffey
Have you checked out the new Poppy Ridge yet? Make a tee time today!