RISadlogThe Dawn of a New Era at Met Links, East Providence
Nestled in the heart of East Providence, Rhode Island, the golf course formerly known as Metacomet Country Club has embarked on a remarkable journey of transformation and revival. Under the guidance of renowned architect Robert McNeil, ASGCA, and backed by Marshall Properties, Met Links emerges from its storied past into a bright future, blending tradition with innovation.
A Storied Legacy Reimagined
The story of Metacomet is a testament to the enduring allure of golf and its landscapes. Originally established in 1901 and relocated to its present site on Veterans Memorial Parkway by Leonard Byles in 1919, the course saw its golden era under the touch of Donald Ross in 1924. Ross’s redesign set a benchmark for excellence, utilizing the natural contours of the land along Watchemetoket Cove to create a course that was both a challenge and a joy to play.
However, the turn of the century brought tumultuous times for Metacomet, culminating in its closure in 2020 amidst financial turmoil and uncertainty about its future. It was this moment of peril that sparked a vision for preservation and renewal.
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The Path to Revival
In late summer 2022, the seeds of revival were planted. Marshall Properties, with a vision to salvage the essence of Metacomet, tasked Robert McNeil with a delicate mission: to conserve and restore the essence of the original nine holes while introducing elements that would usher in a new era of golfing excellence.
The planning and execution of this project were marked by a commitment to respect the course’s design heritage. McNeil, in collaboration with NMP Golf Construction and Golf Course Superintendent Paul Jamrog, embarked on a meticulous renovation process. Their efforts focused on preserving the original holes 1, 2, 3, 7, 4, and 5, while integrating new designs that complemented the existing landscape’s beauty and challenges.
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A New Chapter Begins
Today, Met Links stands as a beacon of golfing tradition and modernity. The course layout, featuring 4 par 3s, 3 par 4s, and 2 par 5s, promises a comprehensive test of skill for golfers of all levels. The thoughtful renovation ensures that each hole highlights the best features of the terrain, offering unique challenges and breathtaking vistas.
As we look forward to the grand reopening of Met Links in early summer 2024, marking 100 years since Donald Ross first lent his genius to this land, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of great golf course design and the community’s spirit that has kept this gem alive.
“We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved,” shared the team behind Met Links. “This course is not only a tribute to Donald Ross and the rich history of Metacomet but also to the countless individuals who have cherished this ground. We invite everyone to experience the new chapter of Met Links, where history and modernity meet on the green.”
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