The Rees Jones renovation (not really a redesign), completed in Dec. 2009, is 'subtle,' to say the least. In fact, unless you played Mauna Kea every year or two, or several times over a decade, the improvements may be somewhat imperceptible in a positive way. His main challenge was to update one of Hawaii's most venerable layouts to the current demands of the game, while retaining the overall look and feel of the fascinating course designed by his famous father.

The focal point of the renovation was to 'cup' the greens, which had 'settled' in such a manner that approach shots just could not hold the putting surfaces with regularity. And with so many elevated greens, this was the real issue that had to be addressed. Cupping, re-contouring and moving to a contemporary super-dwarf Tifeagle Bermudagrass was instrumental in getting the task accomplished. The new turf reduces, but does not eliminate, a certain amount of grain to be read on all putts.

Bunkering was also addressed, with a wide variety of solutions dictated by the individual holes. In terms of size and depth, they should be avoided at all costs. Least noticeable is the improvement of sight lines, from the tee and to the greens, on perhaps a handful of holes. Of course, there was also the application of Tifway 419 hybrid Bermudagrass on the tees, fairways and roughs, and a hi-tech irrigation system installed along with drainage improvements. The course's yardage increased by about 200 yards.

The overall effect is a better Mauna Kea Golf Course, but it remains one of the toughest 18 holes to conquer due to its length, prevailing winds & breezes, complex bunkering and the abundance of elevated greens.

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