“Changing our executive nine-hole golf course into a six-hole academy/teaching facility I had to choose between natural or synthetic. The choice had never even crossed my mind until I saw the facility SWG Construction had created with Nicklaus Design at a nearby property. The initial impression when you arrive at the teeing ground is very impressive, but what surprised me were the results and feedback I got when hitting full 8 irons, not only from the tee surface, but also into the greens. The ball was reacting and spinning on the greens surface like I experience on a high quality natural surface. It sold me on synthetic, and picking SWG Construction as the contractor, their commitment and help has been nothing but first class.”
Peter Downie, GM at Clearwater Bay G&CC, Hong Kong
Robert Rousille, President, GolfUp, Grimaud, France
“Since we started developing the concept of the Golf Up facility more than 4 years ago, it became very clear that we had to do the entire project using synthetic turf. First, because of the positive impact on maintenance and operational costs, which was critical to the financial feasibility of the project, and second, having the ability to have our training center and golf course open all year round with the same exceptional quality of turf. In choosing this innovative option of using synthetic turf systems, we definitely needed to have the best partner in the industry, and after a lengthy tender process, we chose Southwest Greens Construction, led by Kevin Holinaty and Haaye de Jong. We couldn’t be happier with the choice.”
Christophe Muniesa, Director General, French Golf Federation
“We really think that, when properly installed and with the right installation system, synthetic turf systems are viable solutions for the golf course. In our plan to build 100 compact urban golf courses we have noticed that 30% of the courses are made with synthetic solutions.
And for most of them it is a success. However, some of them have had issues with the installation and this is the reason why we insist on this point."
Jim Wagner, Senior Design Associate, Nicklaus Design
“Seeing how the Southwest Greens product functions is impressive. Working alongside Kevin’s team I can see why they have such a good reputation.
Their attention to detail is second to none, and I was especially impressed with how the product performs.
The greens accept golf shots from any distance, and the ball rolls true on putts, much like we demand and expect from top-end championship golf courses."
Ted Simons, COO, Nicklaus Academies
“The majority of the Nicklaus Academies around the world have Southwest Greens’ tee line product installed directly in front of the Jack Nicklaus Coaching Studios as well as on their tee-line.
We have experienced great results with players of all ability levels. The synthetic turf from Southwest Greens allows our students and instructors to step outside from the teaching bays and hit shots regardless of the weather condition."
Kyle Phillips, Kyle Phillips Design
“Will we see a fully synthetic course soon?
Sure, I think we will.
But will there be a time when you go to a top course like Pebble Beach and find out it has installed synthetic greens?
I don’t know. I am not sure that will happen in our lifetime.”
Gil Hanse, Golf Course Architect
“I can definitely see a time when there will be opportunities for fully synthetic golf courses.
As a purist, I do not believe that they will ever replace the feel, look and smell of grass. However, in areas where water usage is a critical issue, synthetic turf could be the only viable solution.
And if that is the case, then it would be better for people to have the opportunity to play on synthetic grass than not to play at all."
David Mazard, Director of Golf, Jiva Hill
“We are truly satisfied with the product that Southwest Greens has delivered for Jiva Hill. The durability and performance is outstanding. We especially appreciate how well the greens function during the winter season.
Given that our golf course is located in the Jura Mountain region of France, all other courses nearby are forced to close during the winter. But because of the durability of the Southwest Green’s surfaces, we are able to keep the course open all year round. And that is very positive for our bottom line."
David Mazard, Director of Golf, Jiva Hill
“We are truly satisfied with the product that Southwest Greens has delivered for Jiva Hill. The durability and performance is outstanding. We especially appreciate how well the greens function during the winter season.
Given that our golf course is located in the Jura Mountain region of France, all other courses nearby are forced to close during the winter. But because of the durability of the Southwest Green’s surfaces, we are able to keep the course open all year round. And that is very positive for our bottom line."
Jon Scott, VP Nicklaus Agronomy Services, Nicklaus Design
“When we started working with Southwest Greens to develop integrated solutions for the golf course, one of the primary objectives was to make synthetic turf virtually invisible in the natural sward.
This proved to be quite a challenge for the Southwest Greens team, but they persevered and came up with compatible options for the superintendent and architect. Mission accomplished. If natural grass isn’t viable, it is time to look to Southwest Greens for the solution."
Stuart Hallett, Stuart Hallett Design
“I have collaborated with SWG construction on numerous occasions. I was impressed with the comprehensive approach, organized planning, reliability, the work ethic, and the attention to detail during the installation.
The combination produces a quality product which, in my opinion, is second to none."