Tree Canopy Raised on Hole #16

The smaller oak tree left of the driving area on #16 has been raised up. Balls pulled left off the tee could find their way under this tree and into an unplayable position. Now there is at least some way to play out of that position.

Split Oak Right of #6 Fairway

The big slanting tree in the driving area of #6 lost some large branches last Friday. Unfortunately the main trunk of the tree was damaged badly. The tree is structurally compromised now. My hope is to save the tree for as long as possible using some pruning and lag bolting through the bole.

The tree is a key part of the hole as it is played now, but who knows, actually losing it could make for exciting recovery shots from below the fairway.


(Click photos to enlarge)

New Sand in Bunker #3

We've just added some fresh sand to the bunker adjacent to #3 green. The bunker liner was becoming exposed and interfering with play.

Please be aware that a few plugged lies may result in the next few weeks until the new sand settles.

Please Welcome New Employee Bobby Kempainen!

Please welcome Robert "Bobby" Kempainen as the new Assistant Superintendent in Training at the Siebel Varsity Golf Training Complex. Bobby is a native of Minnesota and comes to us from the University of Wisconsin -Stout. Bobby has worked at Hazletine National GC and for the PGA of America in preparation of the 2009 PGA Championship. I hope you will join me in welcoming Bobby to Stanford!