News Summary
LinksDAO has announced plans to acquire and renovate the historic Hillcrest Country Club with a budget of $30 million. Founded in 2021, the decentralized group aims to enhance accessibility to golf. The project, marking their first U.S. initiative, will feature a new clubhouse and modern course layout overseen by architect Tripp Davis. This transformation promises to usher in a new era for the club, which has a rich history and hosted significant golf events. Membership opportunities for locals and LinksDAO members will cater to a diverse golfing community.
LinksDAO Set to Revamp Hillcrest Country Club with $30 Million Makeover
Exciting news for golf enthusiasts! LinksDAO, a decentralized group aimed at making golf more accessible to everyone, has announced plans to acquire and transform the historic Hillcrest Country Club. This iconic club, constructed by the renowned designer Donald Ross in 1915, holds the distinction of being the second-oldest golf course in the area and is about to receive a much-needed facelift.
A Glimpse into Hillcrest’s Rich History
The Hillcrest Country Club is not just any golf course; it boasts a rich history that intertwines with major golf events in the United States. Throughout the years, it has hosted prestigious tournaments, including the 1922 Western Amateur and the PGA Tour Kansas City Open Invitational in the 1950s. Most recently, the club operated as a public course until 2023, but now it’s gearing up for a memorable transformation.
LinksDAO: The Team Behind the Vision
Founded in 2021 by CEO Jim Daily and COO Mike Dudas, LinksDAO quickly made headlines by raising over $12 million within just three weeks for various golf projects. Their latest initiative, the renovation of Hillcrest, is set to be the organization’s inaugural project in the United States, with an ambitious budget of $30 million.
Renovation Plans: A New Era for Hillcrest
The revamp will be orchestrated by the esteemed architect Tripp Davis, who has worked on some of the finest golf courses like Oak Tree National and Augusta Country Club. Davis is spearheading plans to clear away overgrown trees and enhance the course’s layout, aspiring to position Hillcrest among the top 100 courses in the nation.
With a vast expanse of 135 acres situated high within Swope Park, the course has the potential to offer stunning views of downtown once the renovations are underway. A new clubhouse and modernized course features are on the horizon, promising an unforgettable golfing experience.
Membership Opportunities for All
One of the most appealing aspects of this project is that it will cater to both local members and LinksDAO members. With the club attracting potential high-profile athletes from the NFL and MLB, the buzz surrounding this initiative continues to grow!
Aiming for Greatness
Despite the course’s historical significance, it has not yet received recognition in Golf Digest’s America’s 100 Greatest courses. However, Ross had previously predicted that with the right infrastructure, Kansas City would have the world’s finest golf course. LinksDAO is determined to prove him right.
Local Developer Joins Forces
Partnering with LinksDAO is Robb Heineman, a well-respected developer known for his significant contributions to the local community, including being a minority owner of MLS’ Kansas City Sporting Club. His involvement is sure to add extra credibility and flair to the renovation efforts.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
The projected timeline for the completion of this ambitious project aims for around Spring 2026. As preparations are already in motion for the new course layout, golf lovers can expect an extraordinary transformation at Hillcrest over the next few years.
The Inspiration Behind Hillcrest Golf Club Renovations
Meanwhile, developments at Hillcrest Golf Club in Moose Jaw – a separate project – also indicate a wave of renovations in the golf community. Their 2024 Master Plan has received overwhelming approval from members and is set to roll out with an initial budget of $3.5 million to improve layouts and add modern amenities.
With these aspirations taking shape, it seems the future of both Hillcrest Country Club and the golf scene at large is bright and hopeful. Keep an eye on this space as more details unravel, and get ready to enjoy some fantastic golfing ahead!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Golf Digest: LinksDAO to Transform Historic Hillcrest Country Club
- Moose Jaw Today: Hillcrest Golf Club Open House
- Moose Jaw Today: Hillcrest Golf Club Passes Master Plan
- Wikipedia: Golf
- Golf Digest: America’s Best New Courses 2021
