News Summary
Rolling Pines LLC has acquired The Country Club of Whispering Pines and Foxfire Country Club, marking a new era for golf in the Sandhills area. The $3.145 million investment aims to revitalize these historically significant clubs, enhancing their offerings while maintaining their classic charm. With future plans including engagement with renowned golf architect Kyle Franz for course improvements, the Sandhills golf scene is set for an exciting transformation that draws in both local golfers and visitors alike.
Exciting Changes on the Sandhills Golf Scene!
If you’re a golf enthusiast living in or around the Sandhills area, it’s time to get excited! Rolling Pines LLC, a new player in the management game, has just made a splendid move by acquiring The Country Club of Whispering Pines and Foxfire Country Club. This is a significant step towards revitalizing the golf atmosphere that’s been somewhat quiet over the past couple of decades.
A Fresh Beginning for Two Beloved Clubs
Let’s dive into the details. The Country Club of Whispering Pines, which opened its doors in 1959, features two classic courses designed by the reputable Ellis Maples. Meanwhile, Foxfire Country Club started welcoming golfers back in 1968, boasting two courses crafted by Gene Hamm. Both clubs have stood the test of time and it’s thrilling to think about how they’ll be transformed under new ownership.
In total, Rolling Pines LLC invested $1.633 million for Whispering Pines, along with another $411,000 for associated time-share units. For Foxfire, the price came to $1.512 million. These investments show a clear commitment to breathing new life into these cherished golf venues.
Why Now? A Look at the Sandhills
You might be wondering why this investment is happening now. The Sandhills region of North Carolina has not seen any new golf developments in the last 20 years. This gap has opened the door for Rolling Pines to step in and modernize two classic courses while keeping the rich traditions intact. The partners behind Rolling Pines believe strongly in the growth potential of North Carolina and see the Sandhills as an attractive spot for golf enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
With the acquisition, both the Whispering Pines and Foxfire operations will uniquely compliment other renowned golf clubs such as Pine Needles, Mid Pines, and Southern Pines. Guests at Pine Needles and Mid Pines resorts will now have access to the lush green fairways at Foxfire and Whispering Pines, broadening the golfing experience in the region.
Future Plans: The Road Ahead
To initiate a new era for these clubs, Rolling Pines intends to engage renowned golf architect Kyle Franz to develop a master plan aimed at improving course designs. This collaboration promises to ensure that both clubs not only maintain their historical essence but also meet contemporary golfing standards.
Whispering Pines is perfectly located just five miles north of Pinehurst and Southern Pines, making it easily accessible via major highways. This prime positioning only adds to the appeal for both local golfers and visitors who want to enjoy the beautiful scenery and laid-back country club life.
A Rich History to Build On
The legacy of both courses adds another exciting layer to this acquisition story. Whispering Pines was originally conceptualized by A.B. Hardee in the 1950s as a community blending water sports, golf, and country club living. The historical significance is further deepened by Ellis Maples, the designer whose family has deep roots in golf.
At Foxfire, the story is just as captivating. The land was discovered by avid golf enthusiasts during a flight from Myrtle Beach, showing that sometimes fortune truly favors the bold. Notably, Foxfire has a significant pond, Lake MacKenzie, serving as a stunning water hazard that adds both beauty and challenge to the course.
In past years, Foxfire proudly hosted the ACC Men’s Golf Championship during the 1970s. Now, both clubs are ready for their next chapter, one that honors their storied past while embracing the future with open arms.
Community Commitment
Ultimately, the ownership partners are dedicated to the Sandhills community and are keen to preserve the legacies of these properties. Their vision is not just about golf; it’s about creating a space where golf lovers can gather, enjoy competitive play, and bask in the camaraderie that makes the Sandhills so special.
As we look forward to what lies ahead, one thing is for sure: the golf scene in the Sandhills is poised for an uplifting transformation that’s sure to bring golfers back in droves!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The Pilot: Developing Foxfire and Whispering Pines under New Ownership
- The Golf Wire: Whispering Pines & Foxfire Under New Local Ownership
- My Horry News: Significant Renovations for Myrtle Beach’s Municipal Golf Course
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Google Search: Golf Course Management
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
