Golf course architect Mark Mungeam of the Mungeam Cornish Golf Design firm has spoken to GCA about his work at the Glen Oak Country Club in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania.

James G. Harrison and Ferdinand Garbin originally designed the course in 1961, and prior to the recent project, there was no record of another architect working on the course since that date.

Much of Mungeam’s work focused on the course’s bunkering. A number were eliminated from the course, with the remaining bunkers renovated and a series of new bunkers introduced.

On the left is how the second green at Glen Oaks Country Club looked previously, and on the right the green following Mungeam’s work

“The existing bunkers were uninspiring and in poor condition,” Mungeam explains. “They had no drainage so many had to be pumped out after rains, and the sand was highly contaminated with stone and dirt. Rather than keep dumping new white sand into the bunkers, the club opted for a more sustainable approach by renovating and installing drainage and liners.”

The course’s 18th green was reconstructed to reduce sloping and increase the usable cupping area. The green’s size was reduced, but Mungeam worked to maintain the character and style of the original putting surface.

Tee complexes were reconstructed on three holes, while fairway edges were modified and several extended collars were added in areas adjacent to the greens.

Work was also carried out to double the size of the practice green and the club’s short game practice facility was greatly expanded.

The rebuilt 18th green at Glen Oaks Country Club

Planning for the project began in early 2013, with construction beginning that September. The project was completed in May 2014.

“There are several benefits from the work,” Mungeam says. “Foremost is the improved conditions and a better feeling about their club by the existing membership. From a design standpoint the strategy for playing holes has been strengthened through the addition of several fairway features, along with the reconfiguring of bunkers next to greens. There is also an increase in the variety of shots required around the greens, which makes the course more fun. The improvements also make it easier to attract new members, guest play and outings, thereby helping the club’s financials.”