WILMINGTON COUNTRY CLUB AT 125 YEARS AN INFLECTION POINT FOR A STORIED INSTITUTION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CLUB MISSION 1 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 2-4 GOLF MESSAGE 5 ARCHITECT’S MESSAGE 6 2016 CAPITAL PRECIS 7-8 WHY AND WHY NOW 9
DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS 15 HOLE BY HOLE 16-24 INVESTING FOR THE FUTURE 25 INSIGHTS FROM THE TREASURER 26 FINANCIAL DETAILS AND PAYMENTS 27-30 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 31 LIFECYCLE AND CHALLENGES 10-11 SOLUTIONS AND BENEFITS 12-14
OUR CLUB MISSION
The Mission of The Wilmington Country Club is to continue to be one of the finest private country clubs in the United States, with a primary emphasis on meeting the desires of its members, their families and their personal guests.
It is the commitment of its Board of Directors that this will be accomplished by having a membership which exhibits the highest standards of personal conduct, by maintaining our facilities at the highest of standards, by continuously providing our members with programs and services that yield the highest level of satisfaction and by embracing our history and traditions through the thoughtful consideration of conventional and current values.
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A MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT DAVID WILKS
To the Board of Directors of Wilmington Country Club:
At that time, leadership concluded that when the irrigation system came due for replacement, the North Course would need a lot of work. Advice provided by the USGA and other agronomy and design experts supported that conclusion. In 2016, the Board put into writing that the time would soon be ripe for that to happen. The estimate at that time was that the North Course work would cost about $10 million, which translates to about $14 million in today’s dollars. That Board document has been circulated recently and its text is included in this package. At that time -- almost ten years ago -- it was assumed that the North Course renovation would be done to coincide with the replacement of the irrigation system. Why? Because if the two projects were not conducted simultaneously, we would need to replace the North Course irrigation system twice, thereby wasting at least $5 or 6 million, which would be manifestly wasteful and imprudent. It was on that basis that the Board waited to address the North Course’s shortcomings until the irrigation system’s inevitable replacement. The irrigation system is now at the end of its life and the time has come to proceed with Club leadership’s long held plans…or not to. This is a watershed moment. We either do the work we always planned to do and rectify the North Course’s pronounced weaknesses - or - we conclude that economic and membership conditions compel us to choose to tolerate those weaknesses until the irrigation system fails again, which will be at least 40 years from now. A number of things would make this decision far easier: maximum membership and a long waiting list; a lot of money in the bank that had been set aside for this renovation; five more years of life in the irrigation system that would allow us to start saving up. We have none of those luxuries. But what we do have is a very active, enthusiastic and affluent membership, and a famously wonderful high- end country club with a debt-free balance sheet. Though we did not start saving for this project when we first anticipated it, a renovation is very much within our financial reach. That does not, however, mean that we should undertake it.
We have reached a consequential moment in the history of this wonderful institution. For the past several years, we have pursued the possibility of renovating our North Course as our forebears have long anticipated. Over that time, we have gathered information, challenged every assumption, sent our professionals and consultants back to their drawing boards, gathered more information, and run endless sets of calculations based on every assumption that we have again challenged. We have negotiated and made insistent demands, all in an effort to make the best and wisest decision possible. Some have criticized us for moving too quickly and rushing to judgment. Others have criticized us for taking too long. In our view, this has taken exactly as long as it needed to take. We do not aim to force any outcome on any member of the Board. We have explored a wide variety of alternatives and present our investigation in the pages that follow. The Executive Committee and other leaders in this endeavor have labored mightily on these issues. We have heard and listened to an enormous amount of member input both in favor of and opposed to various aspects of this endeavor. Never before in the history of our club has so much information been shared with the membership so far in advance of a Board vote. And never before has so much member feedback been solicited, received and considered. That input has been valuable. But the Club’s governance and decision-making are in the hands of the Board. This decision is among those with the most far-reaching impact in Wilmington Country Club history. The renovation of the North Course was seen on the horizon since at least 2008, when renovation work was performed on the South Course. That’s right, every golf course needs renovation at some point. The South Course is considered a fine example of Robert Trent Jones, Sr.’s work and we made alterations to it. The North Course, in contrast, is widely considered to be one of Dick Wilson’s weaker designs and it has never been renovated since 1960. It is more than understandable, therefore, that the Club’s leadership 20 years ago anticipated this moment.
There is broad consensus that we must -- and will -- replace the irrigation system. That alone will cost
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approximately $10 million for which some level of contribution will be required. More controversial, of course, is whether we should address the North Course’s failing infrastructure and design flaws and whether there are alternatives to a full-blown make-over that would involve less expense. For several years, we have worked hard to get solid, reliable answers to those questions and several others. We have learned a great deal and we share in these pages what we have learned. The facts have led us to conclude that there are only two sensible choices: a renovation with a reduced scope or an irrigation-only project. The full-scope cost of Andrew Green’s sixth design (excluding irrigation) would total $14,640,133.88. Your Executive Committee firmly believes that the design includes features that we should not undertake at this point. We asked him to eliminate components that can reasonably be postponed, while still allowing us to achieve our long-stated goals. The scaled- down renovation would eliminate the forced carries that make the North Course less accessible and enjoyable for our newer golfers and those who do not hit the ball as far as others. It would correct all our problematic greens that currently afford extremely limited choice in hole locations (and all the issues attendant to that problem). It would replace our bunkers that are sorely in need of replacement for a number of reasons. It would solve our drainage problems; create cost savings in both chemical application and general grounds activities; expand the number of tee boxes, thereby providing a top golf experience for every player; and at long last replace the 18th hole with a far better design. It would defer changes to the practice range and practice green that would impact the South Course. We anticipate that the cost of this project would total $10,722,141.77, exclusive of irrigation. Note that this figure closely coincides with the Board’s cost expectations in 2016. In short, this capital expenditure does not come as a surprise. Together with the irrigation system, the total cost would approximate $22 million. Having reduced the renovation cost by over 25%, we proceeded to explore a number of other alternatives to the scope of work. None of them resulted in an attractive outcome with meaningful cost reductions. We considered alternatives too numerous to detail here, including every idea proposed by the membership and many others. We considered several phased approaches, but each increased the cost and prolonged the inconvenience of years of construction. We considered budgeted approaches which only served to weaken the final product. Many other ideas were investigated and found to be either too expensive, too intrusive or unworthy of their associated expense.
One of the alternatives in which we were most interested involved not a re-design of the course, but rather only the replacement of the greens, bunkers and cart paths. That is, we obtained cost information for addressing only those items which some believe to be the most critical and which cannot be reasonably tolerated for another 40 years. Unfortunately, we learned that a project of that limited scope would cost 94% of the more comprehensive, but still scaled back renovation. The fact that became amply clear is that greens, bunkers and cart paths are by far the most expensive components of any renovation. Therefore, for a cost savings of only 6%, we would still need to endure the 18th hole, the forced carries, etc., etc., etc. for generations. The only financially sensible alternative to a renovation, therefore, is to conduct none of the renovation work and simply replace the irrigation system. If we were to choose that path, the choice to pay the penalty of millions of extra dollars to address the North Course’s infrastructure would be passed down the line to future leadership. In this package of information, you will find the manner in which the Club would pay for a renovation and what it would mean for individual households. We have strived to find ways to make this event as manageable for the membership as possible. Our oldest members will be relieved of responsibility, if they so choose. Contributions will be payable over time for those who choose to do so. Our goal has been to achieve what has long been aspired to though unfunded, while easing the burden on membership as much as possible. Our hope is that members will recognize the value that this significant investment will generate for decades to come. The contribution for a typical household for a project that fully addresses the North Course and the irrigation system would be less than $20,000. In the context of expenditures that we all need to make as homeowners, parents, automobile owners, etc., that one-time investment in the country club that we all own does not strike us as unreasonable, nor should it trigger substantial attrition. Some have asserted that our general manager has driven this process and it is his desires that are being pursued in this endeavor. That is entirely untrue and counterproductive. This infrastructure project is a creature of our circumstances and our Board, not our general manager or anyone else.
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Mr. Iannelli has been very helpful in accessing resources for us in our investigation and has been a source of information for you and the membership. He is not driving this decision-making process. Some have also placed responsibility on Mr. Iannelli for failing to set aside capital to fund this project. That blame is badly misplaced. It is the Board and the Board alone that chooses the dues we pay and the capital we set aside. Mr. Iannelli can advise, but we and our predecessors decide. It is the Board alone that will decide our path forward. I cast but a single vote and I do not have any personal stake whatsoever in the outcome. My sole personal interest is in doing everything I can to investigate, consider and provide the Board with the best information and guidance available. It would be a failure of leadership, however, for me not to make a recommendation to the Board. No one has spent more time considering this set of problems than I have and no one has received more emails or had more coffees, lunches and meetings than I have throughout this process. Selfishly, I can say that my life would be far easier if this set of problems had not come on my watch. You might feel the same way, but this is now our responsibility.
Here is my recommendation. It would be my preference not to renovate the North Course right now, but I firmly believe that we should. And it would be a drastic error not to do so.
This is an inflection point for Wilmington Country Club. Our choices are clear-cut. On one hand, we can at last bring our North Course up to WCC standards at a reasonable cost to members. On the other hand, we can allow the North Course to continue a long decline that will accelerate over time. This Club has never before allowed its quality to deteriorate and we should not do so now. I am optimistic that the direst fears about attrition are based on misunderstood information and unrealistic pessimism. But even if the worst were to befall us, the Club will long endure and we have the figures to give us great comfort. The choice, to me, is therefore clear. A $10 - $11 million expense for the irrigation system is not negotiable. An additional $12 million investment in the next 50 years of golf at Wilmington Country Club is well worth the finished product for us to enjoy. Our current and future members will thank us.
Thank you for your service and careful consideration. And many, many thanks to all those who have volunteered so much of their time to bring us to this place.
David Wilks
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A MESSAGE FROM GOLF
Dear Members,
This is an exciting time to be a member of Wilmington Country Club. With the necessary replacement of our irrigation systems and the upcoming North Course renovations, we have the opportunity to make a transformational change to our club for future generations – one that is on par with the stewardship of what our predecessors did when they made the decision to move to our current “Kirk Road” site in 1959. The Board’s recognition of the need to make this investment to the North Course is not new. When the sympathetic renovation of the South Course was approved in 2006, the Board was informed by then architect, Keith Foster, and USGA Agronomist that the scope of work that would eventually be required for the North Course would far exceed the work being done on the South Course. In 2010, Keith Foster provided a summary of what that work would entail for the North Course, but no action was taken. In 2016 a “Capital Project Precis” regarding the North Course Renovation was provided to the Board and acknowledged the following needs for improvement: playability (severity) and continuity of select greens; bunker age, construction and inconsistency; poorly designed and individually unplayable holes; a declining and ill-defined tree population; and a cart path system in much need of repair. The Precis also addressed the needs of the property-wide aging irrigation system. This led to the engagement of Andrew Green to do a full study of challenges and solutions. Starting in 2022, Mr. Green proposed several rounds of layouts with input from a Steering Committee. The Steering Committee worked closely with Mr. Green to ensure that the proposed layout addressed the most important aspect of the proposed renovation: the ability for players of all skill levels and ages to enjoy the North Course. This comprehensive renovation will preserve the heritage of the North Course while enhancing playability and sustainability for generations to come. We look forward to delivering a course that meets the high standards of Wilmington Country Club and provides an exceptional golfing experience for all members.
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A MESSAGE FROM ARCHITECT ANDREW GREEN
The North Course at Wilmington Country Club stands at the threshold of an extraordinary opportunity—one that will not only elevate the golf experience but also strengthen the Club’s connection to its rich heritage in the region. By taking full advantage of the available ground, we have the chance to create a layout that is as fun and engaging as it is strategic—a course that invites golfers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy the game in their own way. As you may have heard—and are about to see—the heart of this vision is a unique and dynamic 6-6-6 configuration: six par 3s, six par 4s, and six par 5s. While not used frequently, there are great examples of this layout generating a wealth of enjoyment. The balanced and varied rhythm will offer an unmatched range of shot values, allowing beginners and youth to learn and grow in the game, seasoned members to enjoy the game longer, and still provide the strategic challenges that the best players crave. The variety will keep each round fresh and foster a sense of discovery, whether it’s your first loop around the course or your hundredth. Equally important is the opportunity to weave Golden Age design principles into the fabric of the North Course. By incorporating strategic angles, thoughtful green complexes, and a strong sense of natural flow, we can create holes that honor the traditions of the game while feeling fresh and relevant for modern play. These principles encourage shots along the ground, modest hazards, and breathtaking natural beauty. This is not about building a monument to golf course architecture—it is about crafting a course that will be loved, used, and enjoyed for decades to come. The new North Course will be more than a golf layout—it will be a hub for the future of the game at Wilmington Country Club. It will welcome newcomers with open arms, allow for fun golf at any age, challenge accomplished players, and inspire all who walk its fairways. With careful planning and a commitment to honoring the Club’s history, we will ensure that the North Course becomes a place where the game’s best traditions meet its most exciting possibilities.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
Oak Hill Country Club Host of the 2023 PGA Championship
Congressional Country Club Host of the 2027 Ryder Cup
This is our chance to create something truly special—for today, for tomorrow, and for generations to come. I look forward to the journey ahead.
Inverness Club Host of 2021 Solheim Cup
Andrew Green
Project Master Plan CLICK HERE TO VIEW
Scioto Country Club Host of the 2016 U.S. Senior Open
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2016 CAPITAL PRECIS- NORTH COURSE PROJECT
Problem: Since the 2008 renovation to the South, the North Course has been the focus of questions, comments and suggestions from members on how best to address perceived needs. The conversation consistently includes the following topics: playability (severity) and continuity of select greens; bunkerage, construction, and inconsistency; poorly designed and individually unplayable holes; a declining and ill-defined tree population, and a cart path system in much need of repair. Although it does not fall under the category of member comment, the needs of the aging Irrigation system must also be recognized and addressed.
Design: Although originally designed by Dick Wilson, the North has never been considered some of his better work. Additionally, several adjustments have been made to the golf course over the years. Original hole #2 was eliminated and hole #7 was added to replace it. When WCC acquired the orchard, Joe Lee was engaged to design and construct the #9 hole. Countless minor adjustments have occurred as well intended efforts of members and staff have attempted to address perceived deficiencies. Hole #18 of the North Course is almost unanimously considered the 36 th best golf hole on the property. Trees: The tree population, similar to the South Course has been overplanted and is now overgrown.The majority of trees are in an advanced condition of decline and are not a representation of native species that would be found in the Delaware Valley. As they have matured they have also restricted sight lines, vistas and are frequent competitors of turfgrass. Cart Paths: The overall condition and location of the back 9 cart paths of the North is unacceptable. They were originally constructed without significant foundation making them prone to continuous damage from freeze/thaw cycles, nor do they support any equipment much heavier than a golf cart. Additionally, they are just wide enough to accommodate a golf cart, but typical maintenance equipment will track over the edges causing a deterioration of the edges of the paths and adjacent turf. Irrigation: The current irrigation system is now entering its twenty seventh year of service since installation. Due to age the system, the cost to repair and maintain increase annually. Piping, irrigation heads and controllers all suffer from deterioration, distribute water inconsistently and have become technologically inferior. The condition of this system increases the potential for significant turf loss due to the increased likelihood of system failure.
Current Conditions: When evaluating the status of the North Course, every component that is essential to a quality golf course has challenges.
Greens: Some number of greens are either too severe in grade to maintain todays play demands, or areotherwise so dissimilar in physical character to the Wilson design that they fail to maintain continuity of design or playability. Many greens slope towards greenside bunkers which results in the frequent “wash-out” of these bunkers. Original construction of these greens are “push-up” greens. Two greens have been rebuilt (#1 and #7) to USGA specification. Grasses: The variety of grasses on the North Course tees, fairways and greens can be characterized as a mix of rye, blue, bent and poa with poa and bent making up the majority of turf. Years ago, the club engaged in an unsuccessful long-term overseeding program intent on diminishing the poa population and replacing it with the more desirable bent grass. This program was eventually abandoned when the effectiveness of poa elimination resulted in less than desirable playing conditions in the summer season. Bunkers: In their entirety, the North Course bunkers are very advanced in age, are substandard and diverse in their physical composition. As a result they are very challenging and expensive to maintain. Their playability is often criticized as inconsistent and unpredictable. In several instances, the location of fairway bunkers have become ineffective as the modern game has evolved.
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2016 CAPITAL PRECIS - CONTINUED
Solutions: Engage a reputable Golf Course Architect to professionally evaluate our current conditions and develop parameters for several different renovation options for Club Leadership to consider. For example:
Option 1. Address needs of existing golf course without introducing design alterations. Scope would most likely be limited to: re-grassing of tees, fairways and greens; rebuild bunkers in kind; repair cart paths and renovate the irrigation system. Option 2. Keeping the basic routing of the golf course intact, replace several of the most severe greens and re-contour others to alleviate drainage issues. Re-grass all playing areas, including rough. Evaluate bunkers and reconstruct to current industry standards, utilizing technologically enhanced products. Adjust locations of cart paths as necessary and replace with properly constructed and sized paths. Replace irrigation system in whole from the pump house to the heads. Fix the 18 th hole. Engage in tree management program (similar to what was done on the South) that will re-open sight-lines and vistas to showcase the property. Option 3. Engage in a complete re-build of the North Course.
x
Estimated Costs: Engage Golf Course Architect: $200,000
Option 1: $4.5 million Option 2: $7.0 million Option 3: $10.0 + million
Pros & Cons: Each option will provide unique positive and negative attributes which can be further identified and explored once a clearer path forward is determined.
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WHY AND WHY NOW?
Club leadership has recognized the need to address infrastructure issues and design flaws for at least 20 years. Here are the needs and why we must decide now whether we will address them. WHY: Greens: Several are too severe or inconsistent with the Wilson design; are still “push-up” style and prone to drainage and wash-out issues. Bunkers: Advanced in age, inconsistent, and poorly located for the modern game; costly to maintain. Grasses: Mixed turf varieties create uneven playability and conditions. Trees: Overplanted and overgrown; many non-native species block vistas and compete with turf. Cart Paths: Narrow, deteriorating, and poorly located for equipment needs. Irrigation: Technologically outdated and prone to failure; increasingly expensive to maintain. Design Integrity: Adjustments over decades have diluted Wilson’s original intent; several holes are widely considered to be deficient (e.g., #18). WHY NOW: Coordination: We can no longer ignore the need to replace the irrigation system that serves the entire Club. We cannot responsibly do so on the North Course without also addressing its infrastructure needs and design flaws. The cost of waiting would far exceed $5 million. A Long-Awaited Renewal: The course’s lifecycle is past due for reinvestment. Essential systems such as drainage and infrastructure must be replaced to ensure consistent playability and protect the course for future generations. Timing: Now is the time. Advances in golf course design and construction techniques make this the ideal moment to execute the project. Acting now allows us to preserve the North Course’s legacy while elevating Wilmington Country Club’s standing among the nation’s premier clubs for decades to come.
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LIFECYLE AND CHALLENGES
IRRIGATION
GREENS GREENS
BUNKERS BUNKERS
CART PATHS CART PATHS
Irrigation Systems have a typical 25 year lifespan. Our current system is well beyond this, having been installed in 1991. Current sprinkler heads have been in service for more than 30 years, with inefficient watering patterns. Frequent failures in the irrigation wiring create ongoing unreliable operation and maintenance issues. The pump station has exceeded its useful life, with patched piping leaks and reduced efficiency. Persistent issues with the Adams Dam station complicate water transfer to the course.
Greens have a typical 15-30 year lifespan. Only two greens on the North Course have been renovated since 1962. Mixed turf composition of Poa annua and creeping bentgrass, is difficult to manage as each species responds differently to weather, maintenance practices, and play conditions. Weak root systems with shallow rooting, leading to less resilience during periods of stress such as summer heat or heavy play. Existing contours, combined with modern green speeds, restrict hole locations—resulting in less variety and increased wear in certain areas.
Bunkers have a typical 15-20 year lifespan including sand, liners, drainage, and shaping. Renovations completed in 2020 were intended as a short term solution following the August 2020 tornado, anticipating a comprehensive course renovation. Bunker faces and edges are collapsing, requiring frequent repairs and detracting from aesthetics and strategic intent. Excessive labor is needed to restore bunkers after storms, diverting resources from other course conditioning priorities.
Cart Paths have a typical 20-25 year lifespan, our paths are original to the installation. Original pavement has deteriorated, requiring frequent patching and repairs that disrupt play and aesthetics. Many paths are poorly positioned relative to modern play areas, creating safety concerns and interference with shot strategy. Existing layouts lead to unnecessary traffic and wear on turf, especially in high-traffic transition zones. Certain paths intrude on sight lines and course aesthetics, diminishing the overall playing experience.
Inefficient technology results in inconsistent coverage and wasted water and chemical resources.
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Our irrigation system is one of the most critical pieces of infrastructure at Wilmington Country Club—quietly ensuring that both golf courses, clubhouse grounds, and racquets facilities remain in top condition. The system in place today, installed in 1991, has far exceeded its expected 25-year lifespan and is now well past due for replacement. The current setup is a single-loop system fed by a pump station near the 12th green of the North Course. Over the years, the pipes have become undersized for modern needs, fittings have corroded and begun leaking, and wiring and sprinkler heads have aged beyond repair. The pump station itself—built with galvanized steel—is deteriorating, and experts have confirmed it is at high risk of failure. This means the entire property is vulnerable to a catastrophic shutdown when the system fails. IRRIGATION SYSTEM SUMMARY
The new irrigation system and infrastructure has following key improvements:
New HDPE piping – corrosion-resistant, flexible, and built for decades of service. Modern control system – faster, more efficient watering with fewer field components. Upgraded pump station – epoxy-coated internal piping to prevent corrosion. Double the pumping capacity – allows overnight watering in the USGA-recommended 6-hour window. Reduced risk of failure – replaces aging, corroded, and undersized components. Enhanced Water Delivery - efficent transfer from Adams Dam What to expect during construction: The irrigation installation would occur in conjunction with the North Course renovation. Work to the South Course will be carefully sequenced to minimize disruption. There will be no disruption to entries into the clubhouse, clubhouse drive, parking or racquets.
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GREENS, TEEING GROUND AND TURF SOLUTIONS
GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE
TURF VARIETIES
Complete Rebuild of All 18 Greens: Every green on the North Course will be fully reconstructed using modern specifications, ensuring a structurally sound surface and superior putting experience. Wider Fronts: Redesigned greens will feature significantly wider fronts, creating more strategic approach options for all skill levels. Varied Hole Locations: The new complexes will increase the number of viable hole locations on each green, maintaining challenge and freshness throughout the season. Improved Drainage and Root Zones: State-of-the-art drainage and carefully engineered root zones will promote deep, healthy turf rooting, resulting in more resilient greens that recover quickly from stress and maintain optimal playing conditions in all weather.
Surrounding Fairway Turf: Expanded and well-integrated fairway turf surrounds will offer multiple recovery shot options, enhancing playability. Modern Bentgrass Cultivars: Transitioning to advanced creeping bentgrass varieties provides superior heat and disease resistance, ensuring healthier turf and improved year-round playability compared to the current mixed Poa annua and bentgrass. Proven and New Varieties: Turf options we will use include the ‘007’xl cultivar, proven at top courses like Merion and Congressional, as well as newer strains such as ‘Centennial’ on tees and greens.
TEEING GROUNDS
Teeing Ground: The renovated course will include multiple teeing options to suit all skill levels, with five sets ranging from just under 5,000 yards to nearly 6,900 yards. Family and junior tees at 65–70 yards will make the course more accessible for new players, while forward tees are positioned to remove forced carries.
PHOTO RENDERING OF HOLE #2
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Inspired by the original Wilmington C.C. layout, designed by Wilfred Reid in 1901, the new bunker design reintroduces strategic and visual elements that enhance both playability and aesthetics. Rather than serving purely as penalties, bunkers will be positioned to frame holes, define fairways, and provide risk-reward options that engage golfers of every skill level. BUNKER SOLUTIONS
PHOTO RENDERING OF HOLE #12
Strategic Placement Bunkers will be located to create clear choices off the tee and into greens— rewarding accurate shots while offering safer routes for higher handicap players.
Playability and Visual Appeal Flatter areas with varied bunker faces will provide more consistent play conditions, while framing holes to add depth and visual interest throughout the course.
Guided Shot-Making Placement will define the “proper side” and “wrong side” of fairways, encouraging thoughtful shot selection and preserving the course’s strategic character.
PHOTO RENDERING OF HOLE #13
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1 CART PATH SOLUTIONS
Natural Integration The new cart paths will follow the land’s natural contours, reducing grading and preserving the course’s scenic character. By blending into the topography with natural materials and subtle edging, the paths will appear less intrusive and more harmonious with the surrounding landscape. Maintenance Reduction The use of modern paving materials and proper drainage design will minimize erosion issues that have historically required frequent repairs. This upgrade along with wider paths, reduces long-term maintenance demands and ensures a cleaner, more durable path system that stands up to weather and heavy cart traffic.
Improved Traffic Flow Rerouting and reconfiguring paths will create smoother transitions between greens and tees, minimizing unnecessary backtracking or congestion in high-traffic areas. This efficient routing reduces wear on adjacent turf and ensures a more intuitive, uninterrupted player experience. Enhanced Comfort Upgrading to modern paving materials and refined construction techniques will create a smoother surface that reduces cart vibration and noise. This enhances comfort for riders, minimizes wear on carts themselves, and contributes to a more peaceful on-course experience that complements the club’s serene setting.
PHOTO RENDERING OF HOLE #7
Proper Positioning Wherever possible, paths will be rerouted to sit outside primary lines of play and out of sight from critical shot angles. This minimizes distractions for players, protects the strategic design of each hole, and enhances the visual purity of the course from tee to green.
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DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS: PLAYABILITY FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS
Enhanced Playability The renovated North Course will offer a more engaging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. Wider fairways combined with strategically placed bunkers will create multiple shot options and reward thoughtful play. Sixteen greens will now be designed to accept bounce-in approaches—an improvement from two currently—opening the course to more creative shot-making. Forced carries over water will be eliminated for forward tees, improving accessibility, while five to six sets of tees will ensure a properly scaled challenge for every golfer. Strategic Elements The new design emphasizes strategy and variety, with bunkers positioned to encourage thoughtful decision-making. Redesigned green complexes will feature varied contours and multiple hole locations, while properly contoured fairway slopes will enhance playability and promote the ground game. Historical Inspiration Drawing from the heritage of the club’s original course, the redesign incorporates traditional bunkering styles and classic design features that celebrate Wilmington Country Club’s history. Highlights include the enhanced orchard feature on Hole 9 and strategic ground-game elements that harken back to traditional shot values. Enhancements The course will showcase memorable visual elements, including infinity-edge greens with spectacular long views, a dramatic reveal of the barn and oak tree on the finishing hole, and striking elevation changes that add both beauty and strategic interest to the round. Shortened and better-aligned green-to-tee connections will reduce unnecessary distance and improving overall flow.
The Proposed Course Design This balanced configuration creates tremendous variety, with total yardages ranging from 6,900 yards (championship tees) to under 5,000 yards (forward tees). Par 3s Ranging from 70-245 yards, each with distinct character and challenges. Includes dramatic drop shots, uphill plays, and varied green complexes. Par 4s Strategic holes with varied lengths and doglegs. Designed to reward thoughtful play with multiple approach options based on player skill level. Par 5s Diverse challenges including back-to-back par 5s (holes 5-6). Designed to be reachable for longer hitters while providing strategic options for all players.
PHOTO RENDERING OF HOLE #18
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HOLE 1 HOLE 2 | PAR 3
HOLE 1 | PAR 4
The second hole will see improved connectivity with a new path linking maintenance access to the paths for holes #2 and #13 on the South Course. Existing tees will be combined into a larger rear tee, complemented by a new forward tee that provides multiple playing options. A small approach bunker will be added to create a bounce- in feature, while the new pseudo-punchbowl green will help feed shots onto the surface and work from left to right. A large guarding bunker on the right adds strategic challenge.
The opening hole will be reimagined to improve strategy, aesthetics, and playability. The rear tee will shift back and left, with other tees spread along the hillside to reduce wear. The fairway will widen and flow naturally to the pond’s edge, eliminating the wall and adding subtle mounding for interest. The pond edge will be adjusted for more usable landing area, while the green moves back about 50 yards to create strategic angles and bounce-in approaches. The cart path will also be realigned and screened with mounding for a cleaner look.
Tee Proposed Blue 380 yards White 360 yards Gold 325 yards Green 300 yards
Tee Proposed Blue 250 yards White 225 yards Gold 180 yards Green 160 yards
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HOLE 1 HOLE 4 | PAR 4
HOLE 3 | PAR 5
The fourth hole will introduce a special rear tee set within a framework of hummocks and bunkers to maximize distance and visual drama. Main tees will be expanded for flexibility, while the forward tee will be offset to create the best angle of attack. A pair of bunkers at the long landing zone will challenge players to choose their line and distance, with one bunker tying into the fifth fairway for continuity. The fairway will widen through the natural topography into the approach, and the green will be shifted back and slightly right to optimize available space.
The third hole will shift its rear tees near the fairway bunker from the current second hole, creating better separation from the South Course’s 14th hole. Forward tee options will extend down the line of play, while the fairway climbs the hill in the style of the current third hole, using a key bunker to define the dogleg. A series of stacked bunkers along the left will add strategic interest and the green will be pushed back and lengthened to support varied pin placements with three guarding bunkers to the right.
Tee Proposed Blue 540 yards White 525 yards Gold 500 yards Green 400 yards
Tee Proposed Blue 475 yards White 415 yards Gold 400 yards Green 320 yards
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HOLE 1 HOLE 6 | PAR 5
HOLE 5 | PAR 5
This hole will maximize setup potential by extending the main tee as far back as possible within the available space, while the forward tee will be positioned along the slope to provide the best angle of play. A cascading series of bunkers will follow the natural topography down the line of play, with a long landing-zone bunker on the left, challenging the best players from each tee to position their drives correctly. A split second landing area will feature a single bunker and make strategic use of the natural low in the terrain. as a semi-punchbowl, giving players many options to be creative with the surrounds
As the shortest par 5 on the course, this hole will maximize setup options by extending the rear tees further down the line of play, while the forward tee will be positioned at the start of the fairway for accessibility. Fairway bunkers will help define the hole and invite aggressive play, complemented by a strategically placed hummock that adds risk-reward decisions on the second shot. The green will be shifted back slightly to allow for a wider range of hole locations, and a series of approach bunkers along the right side will wrap around the target.
Tee Proposed Blue 480 yards White 465 yards Gold 440 yards Green 370 yards
Tee Proposed Blue 520 yards White 505 yards Gold 485 yards Green 415 yards
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HOLE 1 HOLE 8 | PAR 4
HOLE 7 | PAR 3
A unique rear tee blends the short grass surrounding the green on Hole 7, creating a clean rear tee that blends into the short grass surrounding the green, creating a clean, integrated look. The teeing area flows forward in a fairway cut, offering a wide range of setup distances. Three staggered bunkers are placed to challenge both the line and distance off the tee. The green itself is designed as a triangle, where hole location really matters—especially with bunkers guarding the left side. To the right, the green spills into fairway turf, adding interest and recovery options.
As the shortest par 3 on the course, this hole will feature a wide teeing area with flexibility to play at multiple distances. The target green will sit on the high point of the hole, leaning slightly toward the player and surrounded by stacked bunkers of varied depths cut into the hillside. The green will be designed to hold lower-trajectory shots but make precise flag-hunting a demanding challenge, with the rear of the green falling away into a fairway collection area for added recovery options.
Tee Proposed Blue 145 yards White 115 yards Gold 105 yards Green 90 yards
Tee Proposed Blue 365 yards White 300 yards Gold 275 yards Green 260 yards
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HOLE 1 HOLE 10 | PAR 5
HOLE 9 | PAR 3
A new rear tee positioned back and left on the west side of the 9th green will take advantage of the available land to create a dramatic opening shot. The main tee shifts left to provide more width and greater separation from the clubhouse, while forward tee players are moved up for a more accessible and rewarding start. Shifting the cart path to the right and moving the line of play away from the tennis building opens up space and improves safety. Finally, the green moves back and to the left, maximizing its setting with wide views into the neighboring valley and expanding options in the second landing zone.
The teeing area expands to increase both width and depth, improving durability and distributing play more evenly. The historic orchard surrounding the hole is expanded to create a more immersive setting. The green pushes back to the edge of the hillside for a dramatic, one-of-a-kind par 3. A substantial bunker in the front face of the green defends shots, while still allowing a ground entry on the right.
Tee Proposed Blue 200 yards White 175 yards Gold 140 yards Green 125 yards
Tee Proposed Blue 665 yards White 565 yards Gold 525 yards Green 445 yards
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HOLE 1 HOLE 12 | PAR 4
HOLE 11 | PAR 3
The overall topography around the tee will be lowered, using the excavated soil to extend the setup distance as much as possible. The main tees and foreground will be dropped to create a more natural look and improve sight lines. The cart path will be reworked to the left, moving across the slope down to the service path. Key vegetation will remain to buffer views toward the reservoir. The landing zone will feature offset bunkers and the green will be sited near the existing fairway bunkers, with a twisted opening to add interest.
The rear portion of the tee will be positioned near the existing 10th green, with an elongated teeing surface extending over 90 yards to provide expanded options and recovery space. A wide approach that narrows toward the front of the green will create a more defined and strategic entry. Lowering the green and letting its edges fall away will open up stunning views of the pastoral landscape beyond, while the cart path swings low behind the green, hugging the property edge.
Tee Proposed Blue 175 yards White 150 yards Gold 120 yards Green 105 yards
Tee Proposed Blue 370 yards White 325 yards Gold 300 yards Green 280 yards
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HOLE 1 HOLE 14 | PAR 5
HOLE 13 | PAR 3
While shorter players can tee off from a forward tee on the far side of the water, reversing this par five on the traditional 18th hole maximizes space, giving long hitters the chance to carry the water while shorter players can tee off from the opposite side. On the left, a series of mounds and broken landforms create strategic interest without using sand. The hook bunker on the right breaks up the second landing zone and challenges players to choose the optimal line. The green will flow smoothly from the natural grade.
The rear tee will be tucked against the long fairway bunker on hole #12, maximizing both drama and visual connection. Main tees will stair-step down the hillside, following the natural terrain. The cart path will cross the hole in a low area to ensure access while staying largely out of view. The green will be positioned to both inspire and intimidate, surrounded by bunkers of varying sizes, shapes, and depths. At the rear, the green will tie into a fairway area that falls away toward the hazard.
Tee Proposed Blue 560 yards White 545 yards Gold 510 yards Green 385 yards
Tee Proposed Blue 125 yards White 100 yards Gold 85 yards Green 70 yards
22
HOLE 1 HOLE 16 | PAR 3
HOLE 15 | PAR 4
A rear tee sits in the corner of the property while the primary tee expands into fairway that begins near the 15th green and runs seamlessly down the hole. A cart path aligned along the left side keeps circulation clean, while the fairway flows uninterrupted from tee to green, following the restored natural grade. Generous approach and run-up space take advantage of the gentle downhill terrain, helping balls release into the putting surface. The green is framed with sand and fairway runoff at its corners, adding character, challenge, and a variety of recovery options.
The tee position shifts slightly inward toward the interior of the course. A wide, arcing fairway asks players to pick a line of play and dedicated distance, while a series of bunkers and mounds at the inside of the dogleg shape the hole’s turning point. A well-placed bunker on the outside keeps longer hitters honest, and the approach naturally follows the site's gentle grade. The triangular green uses previously untouched space and offers endless angles of attack shaped by the fairway’s movement.
Tee Proposed Blue 430 yards White 400 yards Gold 375 yards Green 340 yards
Tee Proposed Blue 225 yards White 200 yards Gold 160 yards Green 140 yards
23
HOLE 1 HOLE 18 | PAR 4
HOLE 17 | PAR 5
The driving zone is designed to challenge players—taking the most aggressive line carries the highest risk. A centerline bunker sits at the longest landing area, forcing strategic decisions for all tee positions. The green will be tucked against the existing pond, adding interest without dominating play. We will highlight the stunning barn and oak backdrop by carefully positioning the green to preserve these iconic features. Finally, the hole will connect back to the clubhouse via the current bridge, ensuring a smooth transition to the finish of the round.
The rear tee sits near the existing tee on #8 South, with additional tees rising into the grade leading up to the fairway. A key cross bunker defines a preferred line of play along the left-to-right slope, while a second set of bunkers at the lay-up zone encourages bold, strategic decisions. The green feels like a fortress, with front bunkers set slightly off the surface and an extended approach that rewards aggressive play.
Tee Proposed Blue 520 yards White 485 yards Gold 465 yards Green 430 yards
Tee Proposed Blue 460 yards White 450 yards Gold 385 yards Green 325 yards
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INVESTING FOR THE FUTURE
MEMBER-FOCUSED GOLF The redesigned 18-hole layout is thoughtfully crafted to challenge both the novice and the experienced golfer. It offers the perfect balance of playability and complexity, with a design that encourages creativity, strategic shot-making, and flexible play. Every round is an opportunity for members to enjoy a personalized, engaging, and rewarding golf experience.
INFRASTRUCTURE The irrigation infrastructure supports every aspect of the land's health, function, and longevity. From maintaining turf and healthy landscaping to ensuring efficient water usage, the infrastructure is not just a utility — it is the foundation upon which the quality, beauty, and performance of the property are built. Investing today ensures that the property thrives for generations to come.
STEWARDSHIP As members of the Club, we have a responsibility to be good stewards of its resources, ensuring the property is well maintained and thoughtfully developed. These actions directly impact the Club’s future, making it essential to invest wisely in improvements and sustainability. This committment helps preserve the Club’s legacy for future generations of members to enjoy.
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STEWARDSHIP AND VISION: A MESSAGE FROM TREASURER DAVID WILKINSON
Dear Fellow Members,
I hope this message finds you well and enjoying the many amenities that make Wilmington Country Club a special place for all of us. Our Club has been considering how to best address overdue improvements to our campus-wide irrigation system and many facets of the North Course. As with past projects, the current one was developed in the scope of our Club’s mission principle: “to continue being one of the finest private country clubs in the United States, with a primary focus on meeting the desires of our members, their families, and personal guests”. The scale of this project is significant given the size of our campus and the many needs of the North Course. Historically, our Club has funded projects internally, but nothing to this magnitude in many decades. The sheer size of the project requires funding from a combination of existing cash flow, bank debt, and Member investment. A planning committee for the project was initiated by the Board of Directors in 2018 and, after many iterations, a basic construct for the project was developed in 2024. Subsequently, a Funding Committee for the project was established in 2024. Objectives considered by this committee included: Determine an appropriate amount of funds to borrow: Our Club is strong financially. Many factors were considered in determining how much should be borrowed. Sensitivity models were used to analyze how changes in key variables (membership, revenue, debt, etc) would affect the Club’s cash flow and its ability to service term debt. Data from clubs which have recently completed similar projects was also incorporated into our modeling. It was determined that a term loan of $7-$10MM could be supported by the Club without having to peel away funds allocated to obligatory capital needs, nor require direct increases in dues, over an extended period. Member’s investments will fund remaining needs of the project and are necessary given the scale of the project. Identify the most competitive financing solution in our market: Our existing bank and others in the market were asked to propose terms for financing this project. We were pleased with how competitive the banks were in their responses and are confident that we have negotiated a very solid solution with our incumbent bank. Determine flexible payment options for the member investment while considering factors such as age and membership classification: Best practices in this regard were provided by other clubs in our area and, with input from WCC members, were used to develop the options outlined within this presentation. The Funding Committee, Executive Committee, and many others were very thoughtful in their efforts to develop a financing solution for this project. From these efforts, a sound plan that incorporates both external and member funding sources and offers a variety of payment options for members was developed.
Thank you,
David Wilkinson
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