Lyman Orchards' new golf center has won praise among golfers and now it's receiving high marks from industry experts.
The 9-hole Apple Nine course and training facility in Middlefield was recently selected as one of only six courses in the country to receive the Design Excellence award from the American Society of Golf Course Architects.
The award "shines a light on the innovation and problem-solving skills required of today’s golf course designs, whether the project is a “small” bunker renovation or a full-scale 18-hole layout," according to the ASGCA.
The course, which opened in the spring, was designed by golf architect Mark Mungeam and was selected based on economic, social and environmental contributions, according to a review:
A challenging economy placed Golf Center development on hold. So, a multi-season practice tee area was implemented as a revenue boost and parking was reduced to accommodate a large putting “course” for young families. Also, approval from the local Wetlands Commission allowed for construction of less-expensive, pier-supported bridges at various course location.
"We received overwhelming compliments about the design of the course and the quality of the course," said Steve Ciskowski, Lyman Orchards Chief Executive Officer. "We really wanted to make it attractive not only to the novice golfer but to the experienced golfer that might be taking the family out for a round of golf as well."
The American Society of Golf Course Architects is a non-profit organization comprised of experienced golf course designers throughout the United States and Canada.
The other recognized courses are:
Bowes Creek Country Club, Elgin, Ill./Rick Jacobson, ASGCA
Granite Links Golf Club, Quincy & Milton, Mass./John Sanford, ASGCA
Mira Vista Golf & Country Club, El Cerrito, Calif./Forrest Richardson, ASGCA
Phillips Park Golf Course, Aurora, Ill./Greg Martin, ASGCA
The Eagle Course, Twin Eagles, Naples, Fla./Steve Smyers, ASGCA
