Page 16 - GreenMaster Winter 2025

Cold temperatures made the synthetic turf bricks and adhesives more rigid and difficult
to work with.
The cold weather didn’t stop the progress of renovating the right-side bunker on #18.
to the construction schedule. Creativity has come into play here as winter
hoarding techniques are now being adapted to allow for less harsh working
conditions if/when temperatures get extremely cold.
Despite these obstacles, the staff’s determination and adaptability have
ensured steady progress. In many ways, overcoming these challenges has
reinforced the team’s pride in the project—knowing that every completed
bunker reflects not only technical precision but also resilience in the face of
harsh conditions.
PROGRESS AND IMPACT
Each of the bunkers selected for renovation so far have either been high play/
focal points or problematic bunkers. To date, 23 greenside bunkers have been
renovated and two removed entirely to improve strategy and playability.
This fall, the 14th hole will see four greenside bunkers repositioned and
converted into five distinct revetted hazards, creating a more compelling
par-5 layup area as well as an intimidating 2nd shot.
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• CGSA • GreenMaster
Early results have been striking. The
bunkers:
•  Provide a unique visual identity
uncommon in North America.
•  Play consistently without requiring
daily intensive labour.
•  Hold sand in place during storms
and irrigation.
•  Have become a point of pride
rather than contention among
members and guests.
BROADER IMPLICATIONS
Carnmoney’s project highlights a
larger shift in golf course
management: the rethinking of
hazards as long-term strategic
assets rather than short-term
maintenance burdens. By
embracing new materials and
construction techniques, courses
can preserve architectural intent
while controlling costs and labour.
Furthermore, synthetic
revetted bunkers are not limited to
links-style pot hazards. The same
principles can be adapted to
heathland, parkland, or modern
resort-style bunkers by adjusting
wall height and face design. Courses
across Europe and Asia have
already adopted these methods
with success.
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
Golf course infrastructure, whether
irrigation, greens, or bunkers, must
be viewed on a generational
timescale. Traditional bunkers often
degrade within a decade, requiring
expensive and repetitive recon-
struction. By contrast, Carnmoney’s
investment reflects a philosophy of
permanence: build once and build
to last. The payoff is twofold:
1.  Operational Efficiency – fewer
staff hours consumed by routine
hazard maintenance.
2.  Member Experience – distinctive,
visually dramatic bunkers that
enhance strategy and elevate the
club’s identity.
As wild of a concept as it was when
proposed, it really came down to
one simply question, “Do we want
to simply renovate our bunkers—or
redefine them?” At Carnmoney Golf
Club, the answer has been clear. GM