Matt Ginella's bittersweet story on Erin Hills' founder Bob Lang has drawn several comments. I can remember, about four or five PGA Merchandise Shows ago--we're heading down to Orlando for the latest show this week--someone handing me a Wisconsin newspaper story on the course. The pre-sell on Erin Hills was off the charts, especially by Lang, but anyone who saw it completely agreed.
The USGA, as Ginella describes, got interested and Lang's dream of hosting a significant event (The U.S. Amateur) became reality. But like the Irish band in the Commitments, the center did not hold; the team of Lang and his designers: Michael Hurdzan, Dany Fry and Golf Digest's Ron Whitten, began to spin apart and eventually Lang had to sell. Their masterpiece, however, endures. I for one can't to see it hosting a big event.
Loved Matt Ginella's in depth feature on Erin Hills. Much more in depth than local coverage. Have played it a few times, opening year and late last year. I do prefer the "newer" version though I felt it was still about a year away from being in the condition that is their goal. Attached is a photo of #18, taken about 6:00 a.m., June 25, 2009, just prior to it's reopening to the public after making numerous changes. Nick Chapel, Franklin, WI
I'd played Bob Lang's course before the renovation and didn't care for it at all, as it had many blind shots and little continuity. So, I thought I'd give it a secnond chance after the redo and it was even worse. It presented a jumble of design ideas in absolutely horrible condition. I was impressed that Bob took the effort to apologize to me personally by phone. Nevertheless, a 25 handicapper and a golf writer don't make for a great architectual team and there is was no reason to think that they would. Bob clearly understood the USGA's formula though. Erin Hills photographs "pretty" and has copious amounts of parking for the enormous U.S. Open crowds. It's sports marketing but it ain't golf. John D. Porter, III, Charlotte, NC
-- Bob Carney
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