When the 2024 Tour Championship comes back to the East Lake Golf Club, fans will be able to see a complete change. Shocked? Of course, the course in Atlanta has been part of the PGA Tour since 2004 and has seen major renovation since the mid-1990s. Now, by the design of architect Andrew Green, the course will combine its history with new challenges and present a radically different new look for the season’s final. What were the recent renovations?
Andrew Green, the man who revolutionized Inverness Club and Congressional’s Blue Course, has done the same for East Lake. His redesign is not an aesthetic alteration, it is the restoration of the course to its original layout of 1915 by Donald Ross. The changes are extensive, greens have been redesigned, bunkers relocated and fairways reconstructed. Green’s careful reconstruction based on the 1949 aerial photograph reinstalls Ross’s deep-well bunkers and larger greens, adding more complexity to the course. Thus, players will have a chance to meet a course that respects its traditions but offers new trials at the same time.
The restoration process was intended to bring back the look of the East Lake that was present at the beginning of the 20th century. The bunkers are reconstructed at their historical locations and the greens have been designed with a reminiscence of the old dual surfaces. The second hole, a par-3, has a larger green and the 16th green has been significantly altered for a new challenge. These are not superficial alterations, but a recognition of the past of this course and a test for the golfers.
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The yardage has been marginally increased to 7,455 yards and the course has been made to a par 71 with the 14th hole reclassified. This shows that the course is still traditional but has been designed according to modern requirements. What were some of the most unforgettable moments at the East Lake Golf Club?
Greatest Moments from East Lake Golf Club
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East Lake Golf Club has witnessed some of the greatest moments in golfing history from Bobby Jones to Tiger Woods and his dramatic wins. Now that the 2024 Tour Championship is back, it is time to look at the moments that shaped the history of East Lake. The history of East Lake and Bobby Jones’ story are intertwined. At the age of six, Jones began practicing at East Lake and the experiences he gained there helped him become a legend. His victories such as the Grand Slam in 1930 were achieved based on East Lake and therefore the course is dear to him.
Tiger Woods’s connection with East Lake is as interesting. In his early years, Woods had a number of close shaves at the Tour Championship, struggling with the layout of the course. However, 2007 was a turning point. Despite Woods’ previous miseries, he was keen on a comeback and gave a stunning eight-shot victory in the tournament.
The final victory was another highlight in the 2018 Tour Championship, which also saw Woods claiming his 80th PGA Tour win. It was a great show that would be remembered by fans and contributed to Woods’ legendary status.
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This year, East Lake brings out a new design and thus begins a new era of its history. As for the FedExCup, Scottie Scheffler has the highest points with 6,533, Xander Schauffele is second with 6,428 points and Hideki Matsuyama is third with 6,408 points. Will Scheffler stay ahead of the pack? Or will another golfer come out to take the trophy? Comment below!
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Does East Lake Golf Club's legacy make it the ultimate Tour Championship venue, or is it overrated?
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