I'm looking at heading down to the Pinehurst / Sandhills area for some golf over Masters Weekend (4/10 - 4/13). I have never played Pinehurst in the early Spring and am a little concerned about course conditions (aerification) and dormant, yellow Bermuda grass. Has anyone played in the Sandhills of NC around this time period who can help alleviate my concerns before I ask my buddies to shell out some cash and committ?
The average daily temp for mid-April is in the low 70's, which sounds ideal. However, I recently learned that for Bermuda grass to come out of dormancy, the ground temp needs to reach and sustain 65 degrees Farenheit. I would rather save my $$ for a later trip than play or dormant fairways (browned-out) that haven't been overseeded.
Is there anything else I should consider for this time of year? Course reccomendations? I've played and enjoyed Talamore, Mid-South, National, Tobacco Road, and Tot Hill Farm (on the trip down). I've heard rumblings about Pine Needles and Dormie Club, but never had the opportunity. I would be open to adding a new course or two in the rotation..
Any advice or guidance you could provide would be GREATLY appreciated! Thanks all for your help!
DB