Delray Beach Golf Club Closing for $30M Renovation Project

The Delray Beach Golf Club is closing for a year while crews work on what players say are much-needed repairs.

Ronnie Dunayer has been teaching golf lessons at the club for decades.

“People from all over want to come and play in this course, when it’s in good shape,” Dunayer said. “As soon as it is back in good shape, we’re going to see a lot more of that kind of play.”

WPTV reporter Victor Jorges reconnected with Dunayer just last week, ahead of the year-long closure. She says the changes being made can help restore this golf course to what it once was, hosting major tournaments and attracting people from around the globe.

Jorges sorted through the work that’s expected in the course.

There will be completely new irrigation and drainage systems, new restrooms, a driving range, new practice and teaching areas, a new maintenance facility and a new parking lot with upgraded lighting.

Designed by legendary course architects Donald Ross and Dick Wilson, players say the course’s charm lies in its design. The city says the $30 million renovation plan will restore all 18 holes to their original designs.

“People are looking forward to seeing the changes made because they enjoy the place, they want to see it brought back to what it can be, and what it was,” Dunayer said. “In the meantime, they’re going to just find other facilities, but people are also (saying), ‘I can’t wait to come back here and see what it looks like next year.’”

The driving range will remain open on a limited basis until mid-November. The clubhouse, which will also be renovated, will remain open through December.

Tyrrell Hatton: Only 3 LIV Players Backed 72-Hole Format in Early Poll

Tyrrell Hatton says most LIV Golf players initially pushed back on the league’s move to 72-hole events — a stark contrast to the unified praise that accompanied the official announcement.

Speaking ahead of the 2025 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, Hatton revealed that a player questionnaire distributed after his first season showed overwhelming opposition to extending tournaments from 54 to 72 holes.

A Poll LIV Didn’t Publicize

Hatton, one of LIV’s most prominent signings and a mainstay on recent European Ryder Cup teams, said the survey results were lopsided.

“At the end of my first season, there was a questionnaire,” Hatton said. “One of the questions was about moving to 72 holes. I think of everyone who filled it out, only three guys initially said yes.”

Despite being one of the early supporters, Hatton admitted the idea wasn’t popular at the time. But a year later, he believes sentiment has shifted — and he’s pleased the league is making the change now.

“I think it’s a good thing that LIV have moved to four rounds,” he said. “I’m quite happy we’ve moved to 72 holes.”

Public Praise vs. Private Reservations

Hatton’s comments stand in contrast to the glowing endorsements LIV released when announcing the format overhaul.

World No. 1 Jon Rahm called the change “a win for the League,” saying 72 holes would strengthen competition and better serve fans. Dustin Johnson added that four-round tournaments “feel more like the big events we grew up playing.” Joaquin Niemann and Bryson DeChambeau echoed similar sentiments, with DeChambeau framing the move as a “proactive step” toward aligning with traditional global standards.

The OWGR Factor

Beyond competitive purity, the shift is widely viewed as an attempt to address LIV’s stalled bid for Official World Golf Ranking points. The 54-hole format has been one of the major technical obstacles to OWGR recognition — a problem that has limited LIV players’ pathways into major championships.

If the new format helps break that impasse, LIV’s top names are more likely to remain visible on golf’s biggest stages.

Whether players’ opinions truly changed — or simply aligned with the league’s strategic needs — Hatton’s revelation underscores the behind-the-scenes debate that preceded LIV’s most significant structural shift to date.

U.S. Open at Oakmont Generates $288M in Economic Impact Across Pennsylvania

The U.S. Open brought large crowds to Oakmont Country Club and a significant economic impact across Pennsylvania.

The United States Golf Association on Thursday announced that an independent report found the 2025 U.S. Open Championship at Oakmont Country Club generated $288.8 million in economic impact across the state.

More than $200 million of that money was in Allegheny County alone. An additional $88.7 million in economic activity was generated throughout the rest of the state.

One-third of tournament attendees were from Allegheny County, with 36% traveling from elsewhere in Pennsylvania and 31% from out of state.

The study also found the tournament supported 1,476 jobs.

“The 2025 U.S. Open showcased not only Oakmont’s enduring place in golf history, but also the powerful economic and community impact of bringing a global sporting event to western Pennsylvania,” USGA CEO Mike Whan said.

USGA says visitor spending accounted for $111.5 million of the total impact, with people staying in the region 2.8 nights on average and spending $1,195. Championship operations contributed another $119.2 million, resulting in more than $17 million in total tax impact statewide.

Jim Britt, vice president of sports events for VisitPITTSBURGH, says hosting the event proves the region is a premier destination for championship golf — but the impact spreads through the greater Pittsburgh area.

“The event’s economic impact reaches well beyond the course, benefiting local businesses, hospitality partners and communities across the region,” Britt said.

Oakmont Country Club will continue to host future national championships, including the 2033, 2042, and 2049 U.S. Opens. The 2025 championship was the first under the new anchor site model, which aims to deliver long-term investment and operational efficiency.

The USGA plans to return to Pennsylvania in 2026 with the U.S. Amateur at Merion Golf Club.

Quintero Golf Club Reopens Following Multi-Million-Dollar Renovation Project

Quintero Golf Club, the top 100 public course in Peoria, Ariz., reopened for public play on November 1 following multi-million-dollar golf course and facility renovation project. The five-month project began on June 2 and was overseen by Rees Jones, Quintero’s original course architect. Tee times can be scheduled at www.quinterogolf.com.

During the renovation, crews from Total Turf golf course construction company rebuilt all 18 green complexes and resurfaced them with 007XL Bentgrass, an excellent drought-tolerant and disease-resistant grass that delivers consistent putting surfaces. Greenside irrigation was also improved across the property to provide consistent coverage. All tee boxes were laser-leveled and resurfaced with a new 419 Bermuda grass, and all 65 of Quintero’s bunkers were also renovated, receiving new drainage, bunker liners, and new Augusta white sand.

During the five-month closure crews also enhanced Quintero’s expansive practice facility, leveling and resurfacing the practice tee, plus rebuilding and resurfacing the practice green with the 007XL Bentgrass.

This summer’s course renovations marked the first major changes to the award-winning course since it opened in 2000.

In addition to golf course renovations, Quintero also renovated their nine stay-and-play units to provide guests with updated accommodations, including refreshed kitchens and bathrooms, new flooring and paint throughout the units and new furniture.  The Club’s golf shop and clubhouse have also been remodeled with new flooring, décor, countertops and merchandise displays, as well as updated men’s and ladies’ restrooms.

The newly overseeded golf course is currently cart path only and will be for several weeks to allow the rye grass to mature.

Currently No. 93 on Golf Digest’s ranking of America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses and the No. 1 Public Course in Arizona, Quintero was carved out of a secluded stretch of the Sonoran Desert by master architect Rees Jones. Since opening for play in 2000, the 7,249-yard, par 72 layout has received numerous accolades including multiple best-in-state and most-scenic course rankings. With elevated tee boxes perched on mountain tops and fairways ribboning through giant saguaro cacti, Quintero provides a unique Arizona golf experience for guests. For more information on Quintero Golf Club, visit www.quinterogolf.com.

Golf VX Appoints Brian Jung as COO

Seasoned Executive Joins Fast-Growing Golf Technology Brand to Drive Next Phase of Expansion

Golf VX, the globally renowned golf technology and simulator brand, today announces the appointment of Brian Jung as Chief Operating Officer. Jung brings more than a decade of global hospitality and analytics experience to the company as it continues expanding its franchises across various U.S. markets.

“As our industry continues to evolve through AI and digital innovation, Brian’s strategic insight and exceptional business analytics expertise will be pivotal in driving the company’s next phase of growth,” said Kyu Choi, CEO of Golf VX. “His forward-thinking leadership will further strengthen our competitive edge and accelerate our mission to redefine the indoor golf experience. We are thrilled to welcome Brian during this critical development phase of Golf VX.”

Brian Jung

At Golf VX, Jung will oversee operational growth, innovation, and franchise scalability across the brand’s rapidly expanding footprint. His role will focus on streamlining processes, enhancing customer experiences, and advancing Golf VX’s mission to make high-performance indoor golf accessible to players and entrepreneurs worldwide.

Jung, a true global citizen born in Korea, raised in Latin America, and educated and now based in the United States, embodies the international mindset that defines Golf VX’s mission to grow the game of golf worldwide through its innovative technology and customer-first approach. 

Before joining Golf VX, Jung spent nearly 13 years with Hyatt Hotels Corporation, where he led analytics and business strategy across multiple divisions. His tenure at Hyatt honed a rare ability to merge data-driven decision-making with the human touch of hospitality, a combination that aligns perfectly with Golf VX’s vision of delivering exceptional, tech-enabled golf experiences.

Jung began his career at LG Electronics and BBDO, building a strong foundation in product management, market strategy, and consumer insights. He holds an MBA in Marketing Analytics and Decision Analysis from Emory University’s Goizueta Business School.

“A professional basketball court is always 94 by 50 feet, an Olympic pool measures 50 by 25 meters, and a tennis court, 78 by 36 feet — nearly all sporting facilities are precise and unchanging,” said Jung. “But golf is never the same twice. Every course, every round, every condition offers something new. That’s what makes it beautiful, and that’s what drives me. I’m excited to embody that same spirit with Golf VX to create unique experiences for our customers. We will be continuously adapting, innovating and growing with every swing.”

What are the Worst Golf Courses in Each State (Indiana)?

Tameka Woods

Here’s a take on three golf courses in Indiana that have earned a reputation (by some) as being among the tougher outings—whether due to condition, pace of play or value. Fair warning: calling them the “worst” is subjective, and many would argue differently—but the critiques are real and worth noting if you’re teeing off in the Hoosier State.

1. Tameka Woods Golf Course (Trafalgar, IN)

On paper, a public 18-hole course just south of Indianapolis might sound like a convenient local choice. But multiple recent reviews of Tameka Woods reveal a slew of complaints. One golfer called it “the worst shape we’ve ever seen!” — pointing to fairways “FULL of HUGE dandelions” and grass so tall that balls were effectively lost. (GolfPass)

Others indicted the greens: “bare patches on the BROWN greens.” Value for money? Not good: one reviewer said, “They should be ashamed charging $45.” (GolfPass)

In the magazine world of golf-travel listings, Tameka Woods would earn a “proceed with caution” flag. If you go, bring tolerance for irregular maintenance and go in with modest expectations.

Ironwood

2. The Valley/The Lakes at Ironwood Golf Club (Fishers, IN)

This one comes with a different kind of criticism: not simply torn up turf, but logistical frustration. A reviewer on GolfPass stated that the greens “are bumpier than an average course’s fairways and are burnt to a crisp.” (GolfPass)

More frustrating: the pace of play. According to the same reviewer, they were “let 1-2 golfers out at a time, so the back-up is insane. My round of 9 holes took over 2.5 hours.” (GolfPass)

In the magazine-format rating section you might see The Valley/The Lakes described as offering “fair layout, poor value, and poor conditions.” If your time is limited, this one has warning signs for patience and preparedness.

The Trophy Club

3. The Trophy Club (Lebanon, IN)

The Trophy Club brings a more mixed bag of experiences—some golfers love it, others less so, making it a quirky entry in this “unfavorable but not terrible” category. One commenter called it “the worst run golf course in Indiana. I had an outing booked 3 weeks in advance … they cancelled my reservation one week before.” (TrustReviewers)

Another cited condition issues: “At $65 I felt it was a little over priced for the condition of the course. … the sand traps were like hitting off asphalt. The greens were very, very fast and not true.” (TrustReviewers)

Hence, in our magazine critique this might read: a course with potential, but inconsistent management and course condition make it a gamble. If you’re going to play, maybe book for a weekday, check recent reviews, and watch for hidden fees.

Final Word

We’ll be clear: Indiana has many excellent golf courses, and any “worst” list is inherently subjective. What these three share is consistent chatter about maintenance issues, pace of play, or value mismatches. For the traveling golfer or local looking for a good round, they might be ones to either steer clear of—or approach with lowered expectations.

Nemacolin’s Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock Golf Course Honored on Golfweek’s “Top 50 Casino Courses in the U.S.” List

Nemacolin, Pennsylvania’s premier luxury golf resort destination, is proud to announce that both of its acclaimed Pete Dye-designed golf courses, Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock, have once again been named to Golfweek’s “Top 50 Casino Courses in the U.S.” list.

“Golfweek’s course rating panel consists of some of the most discriminating, well-traveled, and informed golf course architecture aficionados in the game, so it is a distinct honor to have our Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock course named among the Top 50 Casino Courses in the U.S.,” says Nemacolin’s Director of Golf Operations Chris Anderson.

On the 2025 list of golf courses owned and/or operated by or in conjunction with casinos — with data pulled from Golfweek‘s massive database of course rankings — Mystic Rock moved up one spot on the list to #11 while Shepherd’s Rock advances three spots on the list to come in at #26.

 “The hundreds of members of Golfweek‘s course-ratings panel continually evaluate courses and rate them based on our 10 criteria. They also file a single, overall rating on each course. Those overall ratings on each course are averaged to produce a final rating for each that is then used to compile the Golfweek’s Best course rankings,” Golfweek Travel Editor and Creative Director Jason Lusk said.

Being home to two standout Pete Dye-designed golf courses and three distinctive luxury hotels — Falling Rock, The Chateau, and The Grand Lodge, all which earned the prestigious AAA Five Diamond designation in 2025 — sets Nemacolin apart and resonates uniquely in the minds of golf travelers.

Around every corner, Mystic Rock charms and beguiles golfers like few golf courses can. The hole designs are imaginative. They ask the golfer to use creativity, brawn sometimes, and problem solving throughout. The everyday conditions on this layout, and its sister course Shepherd’s Rock, are pristine enough to hold a tour event at a moment’s notice. 

Shepherd’s Rock, constructed by Dye and his associate Tim Liddy and opened in 2017, is a different brand of enigma. It features more generous landing areas off the tee but tougher approach shots and absolutely vexing greens. While Mystic Rock hits home with a gripping variety of holes a shot values, Shepherd’s Rock does the same in a ruggedly beautiful natural setting with a quirkier flow and fun pace.

While staying at Nemacolin, one might consider a lesson or tune-up with all the state-of-the-art toys and top personnel at The Nemacolin Golf Academy. This golfer’s indoor dreamscape features four spacious, customized hitting bays which can open up to the 25-station driving range that sits adjacent to two short-game practice areas and a large putting green. The Golf Academy, which also features a dedicated, 1,000-square-foot putting room, is optimized for expert golf training and club fitting.

Until one experiences the eclectic wonders of this larger-than-life resort nestled in the Allegheny Mountains (about one hour southeast of Pittsburgh), it’s simply hard to describe. Imagine a wonderland where one could spend their days luxuriating with world-class spa treatments, relaxing with afternoon tea, admiring breathtaking works or fine art, and taking in a hands-on Italian Cooking Class. Then, another guest could play 36 holes a day of championship Pete Dye-designed golf and use their off time to take a challenging ropes course, go whitewater rafting, jeeping, or clay-target shooting. After all that, they can have a world-class dining experience followed by a visit to The Casino at Nemacolin or enjoying a signature Whiskey Tasting or a fine cigar in The Hardy Room.

At Nemacolin all of that good living is possible in one 2,200-acre footprint, just waiting to be discovered. And adored. But never forgotten.

To learn more about the incomparable golf vacation experience at Nemacolin, visit Nemacolin.com/golf.