TPC Craig Ranch Gets 1st Major Redesign Since 2004 as 7,381-Yard Course Targets Lower Scores
Updated
Updated · PGA TOUR · May 20
TPC Craig Ranch Gets 1st Major Redesign Since 2004 as 7,381-Yard Course Targets Lower Scores
2 articles · Updated · PGA TOUR · May 20
Lanny Wadkins has overhauled TPC Craig Ranch for this week’s CJ Cup Byron Nelson, replacing surfaces, reshaping bunkers and adding strategic pin positions in the course’s first major redesign since 2004.
The 7,381-yard par-71 is expected to play firmer and faster because of new 777 Bentgrass greens, Zoysia fairways and upgraded drainage and irrigation, making approach shots and recovery play more demanding.
That could curb the birdie-fest reputation of a venue where winning scores reached 23-under in 2023 and 2024 before Scottie Scheffler won at 31-under last year, though analysts still expect plenty of scoring chances.
Thunderstorms in the forecast could interrupt play and complicate draw-based betting, while the tougher setup shifts attention toward tee-to-green strength more than putting on greens players have not yet fully learned.
After a $25 million redesign to end the 'birdie fest', can TPC Craig Ranch truly challenge the world's best golfers?
Will this costly renovation become the new blueprint for other PGA Tour events that are struggling for prestige?
With a new course and looming storms, do adaptable dark horses have an edge over the dominant tournament favorites?