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Links Golf Club Continues Its Improvements

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By CLIFF GILL

Tribune correspondent

Published: October 5, 2008

HUDSON - After nearly four months of renovations, The Links Golf Club opened its expanded driving range, practice putting green and new tee boxes to the public.

The driving range was increased to 26,000 square feet, and the putting green is now 15,000 square feet. Ten of the 18 tee boxes were completely renovated, and new Bermuda grass was planted.

The Links, which opened in 1988, has seen a number of upgrades since Matt Lowman purchased the course in 2002.

"New carts were purchased, the cart paths were improved, a new irrigation system was installed, and the fairways and greens have been worked on extensively," said weekend manager Gordon Warren.

The course averages 125 to 150 rounds of golf each day in the summer and 225 to 250 in the winter.

"Word has gotten out about The Links that it has private-course conditions with public-course greens fees," Warren said.

Overseeing the renovations was course superintendant Todd Verbout.

"In June, the existing grass was killed off. Then, the areas to be renovated were laser-leveled and Bermuda grass sprigs were planted," Verbout said. "Up north, grass grows by spreading seed. Here in Florida, we use sprigs, which are the stems and roots of the grass."

Course pro Ray Cisbani was very pleased with the improvements.

"First, enlarging the putting green will give all players the capability to work on both their chipping and putting without hitting into each other," he said. "Secondly, the sand bunker, which is now on the south side of the green, allows the golfers to practice their sand game without being concerned about hitting into players who are lined up for the first tee. Also, the range area gives the golfer an accurate as well as a professional feel to work on all their clubs, from the wedge to the driver."

Golfers of all levels were eager to practice on the new range and putting green. Bill Demers, a Golf Channel amateur tour member who participates in 20 to 30 tournaments each year, drew a crowd with his 300-plus-yard drives.

"I heard the range was open, so I wanted to check it out," he said. "This is by far the best grass for golf in Pasco County."

Also at the opening was Sal Leonardi, 70, of Port Richey. The retired beer distributor plays four or five times a week.

"When I moved down here and started playing this course nine years ago, you lost balls on the fairway due to the high grass," he said. "Now, the grass on the driving range looks so good that it's almost a shame to hit off it."

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