TALLAHASSEE, Florida – Killearn Country Club is on the verge of an extensive club renovation which includes a complete redesign of the 18-hole championship course, nine-hole short course, and practice facilities.
Chris Wilczynski, ASGCA, has been selected by the club’s new owner, David Cummings, to develop the course master plan and oversee the renovation this fall.
David Cummings, Serial Entrepreneur, and Investor is a native of Tallahassee who purchased the club in March 2022. Following the closing he met with Wilczynski, who came highly recommended, to discuss course improvements and what Cummings describes as a “passion restoration and revitalization project” given his significant ties to the community.
It was not long after their meeting that Wilczynski was hired, and plans were underway.
“Chris’ talents, desire, and ambition will bring Killearn to a new level. The natural ingredients are here in the dirt and with his vision and skills, we plan to make Killearn what it was and much more.” said Cummings. “He brought forth fantastic ideas and we felt his enthusiasm, experience and vision will complement the team and help us bring back the magic here at Killearn.”
Other key partners include MacCurrach Golf Construction, Irrigation Consultant Sean Hyduk of Aqua Turf International, and DAG Architects.
The storied “Killearn Country Club & Inn” was established in 1967 by Tallahassee developer J.T. Williams and the original 18-hole course was designed by golf course architect Bill Amick. In its golden years, Killearn hosted several LPGA tournaments as well as over 20 PGA golf tournaments including the PGA Tallahassee Open (1969-1982) renamed the Centel Classic (1983-1989) and has been played by many golf legends like Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, Gary Player, and other top professionals.
“The golf course is an important part of this club and neighborhood’s history. We would love for Killearn to host the caliber of golf events it has been known to host in years prior, as well as make it a beacon for the most talented players in North Florida to hone their skills,” Cummings said. “We’re also equally committed to revitalizing every aspect of the property including the addition of more modernized lifestyle amenities that members can enjoy year-round,” he added.
Wilczynski, who has worked on several new golf course developments across southern Florida loves the rolling and varied topography of the northern part of the state.
“Working with a canvas like this is a dream,” Wilczynski commented. “The natural and classic elements like its mature oaks and pines, and the wider corridors will allow us to define unique angles that create interesting and strategic golf holes. This is a special club, and it is a privilege to be part of this fantastic team.”