While many golfers hunkered down for the winter, dreaming of a Myrtle Beach tee time, one of the area’s best courses, Prestwick Country Club, was hard at work ensuring players will enjoy an even better experience this spring.

The bulkheads at Prestwick, which opened in 1989, was beginning to show signs of wear on holes 9, 16 and 18, and ownership, reflecting its long-time commitment to keeping the course in prime condition, opted to use the winter months to make repairs.

Golfers will most notice the work on No. 16, a dramatic par 3 that features water along the left side. Architects Pete and P.B. Dye originally built the bulkhead at an angle, but the decision was made to rebuild with a straight wall, which added four feet of ground to the 16th hole. (pictured right)

“Our superintendent said, ‘This would be a great place to put a bunker,’” head golf professional Jay Smith said. “We added a huge bunker that goes all the way around the front of the green to the left. It looks really good and reviews have been great.”

The new sand will help keep balls out of the water, making the 199-yard one-shotter a little easier for players as they head down the homestretch on a layout Myrtle Beach PGA professionals voted as the area’s fifth best.

Work on the bulkhead that rings the lake separating holes 9 (top photo) and 18 (pictured below) as both play toward Prestwick’s clubhouse won’t be as obvious to players, but both will enjoy a clean look that helps subtly enhance the experience.

In addition to the bulkhead work, Prestwick is installing new floors in the clubhouse and continually upgrading the course with work both large and small. As a result of management’s commitment to the property, golfers can expect to find Prestwick’s greens in typically outstanding condition and a layout in full bloom this spring.