VUE

For locals looking for a challenge, Upper Montclair Country Club (UMCC) in Clifton, NJ, features 27 holes of championship golf designed by two of the sport's most renowned course architects, Robert Trent Jones Sr. and A.W. Tillinghast. The member-owned private golf and social club was constructed in 1901, and since then, has been one of the only clubs worldwide to have hosted events for all three PGA tournaments. The club itself is well-known for its stunning grounds and clubhouse, which are ideal for weddings, charity events, and other special occasions. But UMCC's real charm lies not in its luxury facilities and mere prestige, but rather within its people. Its renowned staff and caddie program uphold the traditions on which the club was built— camaraderie and character. One of the first things you'll notice about UMCC is how flat everything is. Its bluegrass fairways have the vitality of a newer course, which is likely due to its completion of a $6.5 million dollar overhaul in 2011, a project that was led by course architect John Harvey. The renovation included the installation of a new irrigation and drainage system, as well as a restoration of all the club's bunkers. Michael Brunelle, Head Golf Course Superintendent explained, "The bunker renovation added a unique element to a relatively flat landscape. By deepening all of our bunkers we utilized the fill material to enhance our greens complexes as a whole, providing many different looks and challenges to the golfer." Overall, Harvey's renovation modernized the bunkers, resulting in a challenging yet appealing aesthetic. VUE ON LIFESTYLE V U E N J . C O M 77

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