The Refuge golf course in Flowood, Mississippi, will reopen for play on 19 April following a multi-year renovation project by Nathan Crace.

Originally opened in 1998 to a design by Roy Case, The Refuge closed in 2017 for an extensive renovation that aimed to modernise the layout and increase playability.

Crace oversaw many changes to the routing, including three new holes and relocating several water hazards. All bunkers were rebuilt with Better Billy Bunker, all greens regrassed with TifEagle ultradwarf bermuda and multiple tees were added on each hole, with the layout now playable from 4,439 yards to 7,013.

Read: GCA's coverage of the new holes as construction was nearing completion.

Work also included the removal of invasive trees, the widening of playing corridors, improved irrigation and drainage systems, a water practice range, as well as new and enlarged cart paths.

In August 2020, Honours Golf, a division of Troon, was hired to oversee the final stages of the renovation and to manage course operations.

“After years of hard work, we look forward to showcasing the new playing experience at The Refuge to our residents and daily-fee guests,” said Gary Rhoads, Flowood’s mayor. “We brought on Troon, the top-rated golf management company in the industry, to help us navigate through this golf course development project, and they have surpassed our expectations. The newly renovated golf course and beautiful new hotel and conference centre are just the beginning of many wonderful things to come to the city of Flowood.”

“The Refuge has always had a great reputation within the Mississippi golf community,” said Matt Hurley, president of Honours Golf. “We’re confident that the newly renovated course will open to excellent reviews, and with the adjacent Sheraton Hotel and conference centre opening soon, Flowood will become one of the most sought-after golf destinations in The South.”