The official opening of the new Dundarave golf course will be delayed until mid July.
Honourable Kevin MacAdam, Minister of Fisheries and Tourism, announced the delay following a review of the progress on the golf course and a meeting with the private developers. "The very dry weather over the past six weeks has impacted upon the grow-in of the golf course and we decided it was best to delay the opening rather than proceed and risk damage to the course," stated Minister MacAdam. "We have agreed that the opening will be delayed at least until July 15, and in the interim we will be having further reviews of the course."
The Minister says it is important that the Province protect its image and reputation as the premier golf destination in Atlantic Canada. There are high expectations for this course and we, the designers, and the developers want to meet those expectations.
James A. Wyllie, President of Dormy House Ltd., one of North America's leading golf course superintendents, is in the province today to look at the course. He has more than 25 years experience as a golf course superintendent and grow-in consultant. He provided guidance in 1993 regarding grow-in at Crowbush.
In addition, James E. Skorulski, an Agronomist for the North Eastern region with the United States Golf Association, will be returning to the province prior to official opening.
The impact on golfers will be minimal. While some tentative times had been booked, it was made clear at the time of booking that they were subject to the final decision on the condition and therefore the opening of the course.
Minister MacAdam says "the objective of government is to have a professional quality course, and I would prefer to wait an additional two weeks to make sure that is what we achieve at Dundarave."