NORMAN, Oklahoma — Golf course architecture firm Tripp Davis and Associates (TDA) is celebrating the announcement by Golf Inc. magazine that its client, BraeBurn Country Club in Houston, Texas, received the Renovation of the Year award in the Private Club category for 2022. Golf course renovation candidates from around the world were considered for the award.
Originally designed by John Bredemus in 1931, BraeBurn is one of Houston’s most historic clubs. The legendary Hall of Fame golfer and three-time Masters champion Jimmy Demaret was one of the club’s early professionals.
Regarding Golf Inc’s selection of BraeBurn as Renovation of the Year, the magazine commented, “The common sense approach to tackling the design issues of each hole has led to a complete transformation of the golf course resulting in a coherent sequence of holes that, from a design standpoint, are both simplified and more strategic. Golfers now have an awesome playing experience.”
Every hole, driving range and short game area was renovated by Tripp’s team. Surface and sub-surface drainage was upgraded with new shaping or piping. A new irrigation system was installed, and 90 acres of Northbridge Bermuda and Zeon Zoysia were planted.
The greens were all moved, contoured and sprigged with ultra-dwarf Mini-Verde Bermuda. The size of the bunkers was reduced by approximately 20% and their placement was greatly improved. The reshaping of each hole created a fair course for higher handicap players, more strategy for lower handicaps and an aesthetically beautiful course for all.
“I am honored to have BraeBurn recognized by Golf Inc. Magazine with this significant award,” said Tripp Davis. “Our approach was to take this beautiful piece of land and rebuild it to give it a feel of being from the early American era – the Golden Age of architecture.
“Working with the entire club, superintendents Terry Gill and Aaron Engelhard, golf course builder Greenscape Methods, and irrigation contractor Heritage Links has been a great experience, and everyone was focused on long-term quality for this prestigious club.” “Tripp has created a timeless design built on a vision that will sustain interest, character and challenging golf for all levels of play,” said BraeBurn’s general manager, Dan Olson.
“In addition, Tripp aided the club in assembling world class construction teams to execute these plans. We could not be more excited about the final product and what this great accolade by Golf Inc. magazine means to this property, our membership and the next chapter in the beautiful story of BraeBurn Country Club.”
