Lonnie Poole Golf Course (LPGC) is partnering with NC State Athletics on a major enhancement project that includes construction of a new Hole 2 and expansion of the golf teams’ player development facility.
To preserve the course’s original Arnold Palmer vision, LPGC has engaged Brandon Johnson, one of the course’s original designers, to lead the design of both projects.
“These two projects enable us to invest in the future of Lonnie Poole while preserving what players already love about the course,” said Chip Watson, general manager of LPGC. “These improvements will enhance the experience for public golfers while also supporting the continued growth of NC State Athletics’ golf programs.”
Key Benefits of the New Layout
The new Hole 2 location, constructed along the south side of the current practice area, will significantly shorten travel distances between holes 1 through 3. This change offers several benefits:
- Faster Play: Round times are expected to decrease by approximately 10 minutes.
- Operational Efficiency: The new configuration eliminates the need for shuttles, event volunteers, or spotters between Holes 2 and 3.
- Enhanced Safety: The redesign removes the need for golfers to “backtrack” through playing areas to reach the next tee.
- Staff Access: Maintenance staff can now enter and exit the facility without entering active playing areas.
Building a Home for Wolfpack Golf Teams
The Lonnie Poole Golf Course partnership with NC State Athletics will dramatically expand and reimagine the training facility’s capabilities for the Men’s and Women’s Golf Teams.
- Expanded Practice Area: The original Hole 2 area will be incorporated into the NC State Golf Teams’ private practice area, and total Golf Team practice space will grow to nearly ten times its current footprint.
- Championship Training: Upgrades represent a continuation of Athletics’ investments in its short-game facility, opened in 2023.
- Unlimited Shot Variety: Student-athletes will be able to privately practice their game using all clubs in their bag, from driver through putter.
Construction of the new hole will partially overlap with the previously announced greens conversion project that will transition the course from bentgrass to ultradwarf bermudagr