Representatives from The Archer Group of Jacksonville, Fla., have announced that Hale Irwin Golf Design will coordinate the design of their new course at The Coves at Round Mountain. The project is located 30 minutes south of Blowing Rock, N.C., in the town of Collettsville. The course name will be announced later this spring, with construction to begin in late 2008. In addition to designing the course, Hale Irwin will be involved in developing Irwin Estates, a private neighborhood within The Coves at Round Mountain. Since founding Hale Irwin Golf Design in 1986, Irwin, with help from his son Steve, has completed 18 projects, including three in North Carolina, with more in progress across the United States and internationally. The works by the all-time record holder for Champions Tour wins and a two-time U.S. Open champion include Mississippi Jewel Golf Club in Lake City, Minn.; Coyote Crossing in Lafayette, Ind.; and the Golf Club at Cordillera-Mountain Course in Edwards, Colo. Rick Robbins will serve as the lead architect on the project. Robbins, whose firm is based in Cary, N.C., brings more than 34 years of experience in course design, land planning and project management. Among Robbins' American projects is Mill Creek Golf Club in North Carolina. "Steve and I are very excited to work with The Archer Group and our good friend, Rick Robbins, on The Coves at Round Mountain," said Hale Irwin. "Building a golf course in the North Carolina mountains challenges us to design a course that takes advantage of the natural elevation and topography, is visually attractive and fun to play for all skill levels. We look forward to getting The Coves project underway." "The Coves at Round Mountain is located in a beautiful setting," added Robbins. "I've been working on this project for two years and have walked every square inch of the land. We have a great concept together and this course will be an enjoyable experience for the low-handicap golfer, the average golfer and families." "The Coves at Round Mountain is a very special mountain community and we are excited to partner with Hale Irwin Golf Design and Rick Robbins to create a one-of-a-kind Hale Irwin-designed course for our residents and guests." said Tim Ritch, a managing partner of The Archer Group. "When completed, The Coves at Round Mountain will feature a championship golf course that will be enjoyed by everyone. Our plans also include the construction of an elevated clubhouse that will offer stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains for golfers to enjoy after their round is completed. When combined with our river amenities, equestrian center, planned lake, and the amazing views of Table Rock, Grandfather Mountain and the Blowing Rock, The Coves at Round Mountain will be the most attractive community in the North Carolina mountains."
