Gil Hanse, renowned for his restorations and renovations of some of golf’s most prestigious championship venues, has recently completed a significant project at Oakmont Country Club, which is set to host the U.S. Open for the tenth time in June. The project began in March 2023 and wrapped up by Halloween, utilizing a methodical approach where the front nine was closed in spring and reopened early summer, followed by the back nine closure on Labor Day with completion by October’s end.
Hanse’s comprehensive understanding of Oakmont’s storied history played a crucial role in the restoration process. He reflected on the unique challenge posed by the Fownes family, who were integral to the creation and evolution of Oakmont since its founding in 1904. Unlike other courses, Oakmont’s architectural changes were influenced by the Fownes family over a span of 40 years, making it necessary to consult a variety of historical elements from their periods of involvement.
This eclectic design philosophy led Hanse to examine various iterations of the course, concluding that certain historical versions of the holes were better suited for today’s game while still honoring the original vision of the course’s designers. The resulting changes aim to uphold the challenging nature of Oakmont, which has been a hallmark of the course’s identity.
When asked about the inherent nervousness that comes with altering such a revered course, Hanse expressed confidence grounded in extensive research. He emphasized that golf, like any art, evolves over time, and while preserving the course’s legacy is vital, adaptations are necessary to maintain its relevance in the ever-changing landscape of the game.
Hanse continues to be a vital figure in the future of championship golf course design, maintaining a balance between historical preservation and modern enhancements, which promises to keep venues like Oakmont relevant and competitive for generations to come.