With its sweeping views and challenging holes, Colgate University’s Seven Oaks Golf Course, designed by famed golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, has consistently earned national acclaim as one of Golfweek’s best campus courses (2013) and one of the best public courses in New York state (2010).
But with a list of repairs and maintenance growing with each passing year, the University developed a strategic plan to ensure that the award-winning course continues to be recognized as one of the nation’s finest collegiate venues. Thanks to a lead gift from Brion ’76 and Sabrina Applegate, and substantial contributions from Joe ’85 and Christine ’84 McGrath P’15’20, Thomas McInerney ’78, P’12, and Alan ’63 and Jean Heuer P’91’99, more than $8.3 million was raised for the fully donor funded project, allowing for renovations to begin in August.
In addition to creating a new short-game facility, planned course improvements include an elevated first green to provide a better playing surface and more pin placement; a rebuilt second green, renovated bunkers, new tees for various holes, new chipping and putting areas, and landscaping upgrades with new trees.
Seven Oaks’ renovations also include necessary upgrades to the clubhouse, such as new locker rooms, a new pro shop and lobby, new second-floor gathering space, an enlarged bar area, increased outdoor seating, and a relocated cart barn, equipped with infrastructure that will allow for the use of electric carts.
“The renovations enhance a place on campus that is revered by the Colgate community and the Village of Hamilton,” says head golf coach Keith Tyburski. “Modernizing some of the forced carries, through the addition of length and strategic placement of bunkering, will give Seven Oaks the look and the playability consistent with the top courses anywhere, and we look forward to showcasing it as our host facility on a national stage.”
Seven Oaks renovations are expected to be completed in the Spring of 2022. They will allow the course to attract marquee tournaments, draw top golfers from around the country, and host public and private events. With its enhanced athletic and dining facilities, a renewed Seven Oaks is well positioned to continue its legacy as one of the country’s top collegiate courses, benefitting Colgate’s NCAA Division I golf team, casual weekend golfers, and community members alike.
“In keeping with the University’s Third-Century Plan, we aspire to attract the best students, faculty, and staff,” says J.S. Hope ’97, senior vice president for finance and administration and chief investment officer. “Seven Oaks’ renovation not only aligns with the plan’s commitment to enriching the student experience, ensuring the success of our student-athletes, and stewarding the campus environs, but also restores a prized piece of our campus and provides a state-of-the art facility for our University and local community to enjoy.”
