TPC Avenel gets new name as part of renovation

text size

As part of a multi-million dollar renovation designed to dramatically elevate the private golf-club experience, the PGA TOUR's TPC Avenel will be renamed TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm. The new name pays homage to the site's historic Avenel Farm, once home to the state's largest short-horned cattle farm, and reflects the extensive environmental efforts that have been undertaken during the golf course renovation process.

"We are very excited about the new name, which aligns the club with the natural beauty and rich history of the Mid-Atlantic region, while at the same time signals the rebirth of this outstanding golf amenity in the Avenel community," said TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm General Manager Michael Sullivan. "We are confident our members and their guests will enjoy the many changes that will help provide a unique, PGA TOUR experience when the renovations are completed later this year."

A major component of the golf course renovation, which is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2008, is the comprehensive restoration of the Rock Run Stream Valley -- one of the main tributaries of the Potomac River that meanders through the golf course. During the last century, the stream has become badly eroded, causing frequent flooding of the course during heavy rains. A milestone was marked in December 2007 when the restoration of approximately 5,000 linear feet of the Rock Run mainstream and 2,250 linear feet of eroding stream banks on the tributaries was completed. During this restoration process, nearly 12 acres of wetlands were added to create a buffer between the stream and the golf course. This will allow the high water runoff from the stream to be slowed and absorbed into the wetland areas and prevent course flooding. Additionally, more than 15 acres of trees were added. The result is a natural backdrop for golfers at TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm's PGA TOUR-quality golf course, with premium course conditions ensured year-round.

"The PGA TOUR's investment in TPC Potomac was clearly guided by a total commitment to environmental stewardship and to creating a tournament-caliber course that is as demanding as it is aesthetically pleasing," said Councilman Roger Berliner of the Montgomery County Council, "Based on what I have seen, this investment should pay handsome dividends to the surrounding community for years to come."

Numerous competitive and aesthetic changes are being made to the golf course in order to bring it up to today's professional standards. This includes significant modifications, re-shaping and enhancements to all 18 holes, featuring a complete re-design of holes 10, 11 and 13; lengthening of the course to 7,124 yards, with a new par-70 design; a new state-of-the-art irrigation system, which will contribute to superior golf conditions regardless of the weather; an aesthetic and competitive design solution to storm water management issues on holes 4, 5, 6, 10, 11 and 12; new Bentgrass tees, greens and fairways; the re-building of all bunkers with a style that is authentic and distinctive to the Mid-Atlantic region, including the addition of some Scottish-style bunkering detail with tall fescue grasses; new green complexes and landscaping on all 18 holes; and an expansive new PGA TOUR-quality practice facility and short game area featuring three short practice holes complete with bunkering. A world-class caddie program and golf concierge services are also being added to help members more fully enjoy the golf experience.

Complementing golf course enhancements, TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm's clubhouse is being renovated to provide an upscale, inviting focal point for member dining and hospitality. The virtually all-new clubhouse will feature a new covered entryway; a stone patio with decorative wrought iron railings and outdoor lighting; an elegant members-only lounge with a new fireplace; an 80-seat grille room overlooking the 18th green; a high-end dining room featuring Continental cuisine and fine wines; a climate-controlled wine vault with the capacity to store and age more than 2,000 bottles; personal wine lockers for members' private stock; a handsomely decorated 16-seat Board Room with video conferencing and the latest audio-visual technology; an upscale banquet room now allocated exclusively for members' use; new flexible meeting space; a state-of-the-art Business Center; completely re-designed, beautifully appointed men's and women's locker rooms; and a new full-service golf shop offering premium brand equipment and apparel. The clubhouse is expected to be completed by August 2008. The club is located at 10000 Oaklyn Drive in Potomac. For membership information, please contact Keith Steinberg at (301) 469-3700 ext. 114 or keithsteinberg@pgatourtpc.com.