No Laying Up - Golf Podcast 1026: KPMG Storylines + Gil Hanse
Jun 17, 2025
Gil Hanse, a renowned course architect known for designing major championship courses, joins the conversation to share insights about the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship at Fields Ranch East. He discusses the unique challenges the course presents to top female players, including strategic layout and environmental considerations. The hosts also delve into the dynamics of women's golf, highlighting emerging talents and the significance of custom fitting for enhancing player performance. Hanse's perspective adds depth to the anticipation surrounding this prestigious tournament.
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Epic Planning for Major Venue
- Fields Ranch East was designed with major championship flexibility while accommodating resort play and environmental constraints.
- Collaboration among architects and PGA staff balanced flood plain challenges, hospitality needs, and major tournament requirements.
Course Tests Second Shots Most
- LPGA players face an extreme test with firm Bermuda fairways, fast greens, and strategic hazards.
- The design rewards players adept at second shots and punishes missed greens with tricky bunkers.
Learning from Senior PGA Setup
- Course setup lessons from previous senior PGA allowed better pin placements and understanding of green speeds.
- Organizers have the flexibility to widen or narrow fairways and adjust hole locations depending on tournament needs.