News Summary
Rolling Pines LLC has enhanced its presence in North Carolina’s Sandhills region by acquiring the Country Club of Whispering Pines and Foxfire Country Club. This strategic move underscores the company’s long-term commitment to the local golf industry and aims at improving the facilities while preserving their historical significance. With a focus on enhancing both clubs under the guidance of experienced golf architect Kyle Franz, Rolling Pines intends to elevate the golfing experience and engage the community effectively as part of its ongoing strategy.
Rolling Pines LLC Expands North Carolina Golf Portfolio with Acquisition of Whispering Pines and Foxfire Country Clubs
Sanford, North Carolina — Rolling Pines LLC, a golf management company operating under Mid Pines Development Group, has significantly increased its presence in North Carolina’s Sandhills region by acquiring two notable golf clubs, along with two additional courses. The move expands the company’s portfolio and reinforces its long-term commitment to the area’s golf industry.
Details of the Acquisitions
The acquisitions include the Country Club of Whispering Pines and Foxfire Country Club. The Country Club of Whispering Pines features two 18-hole courses designed by renowned architect Ellis Maples, with a history dating back to 1959. Foxfire Country Club, established in 1968, also comprises two courses, designed by Gene Hamm. Both clubs were purchased from GreatLife Golf Management.
The financial terms of these transactions have not been publicly disclosed. Rolling Pines plans to bring in experienced golf architect Kyle Franz to oversee master planning and renovation efforts for both clubs. Franz has previously worked on restoring Mid Pines and Pine Needles, returning those facilities to their Donald Ross roots, and will focus on enhancing the design and conditions of Whispering Pines and Foxfire, without necessarily aiming for strict historical restoration.
Strategic Goals and Leadership
Kelly Miller, managing partner of the ownership group, has been involved with Pine Needles since the 1980s and played an instrumental role in recent acquisitions of other properties in the region. Miller emphasized the potential to improve all four newly acquired courses and highlighted North Carolina’s growth, especially in the Sandhills, as an advantageous opportunity to enhance golf offerings.
Haresh Tharani, another partner within the ownership group, pointed out North Carolina’s attractive climate, low tax environment, and the Sandhills’ reputation as a premier golf destination, which collectively contribute to the strategic value of the expansion.
Future Plans and Community Engagement
Rolling Pines LLC intends to invest in the clubs’ facilities and overall experience, aiming to preserve their historical significance while improving course conditions. The company is committed to maintaining a strong community focus and ensuring that the clubs continue to serve the public’s golf needs.
With these acquisitions, Rolling Pines’ managed golf properties now total 126 holes, underscoring its dedication to long-term stewardship and growth in the region. Existing members of Pine Needles, Southern Pines, and Mid Pines will continue to have access to Whispering Pines and Foxfire, though the latter will operate independently from the existing membership structures.
Background and Significance
The Country Club of Whispering Pines opened its doors in 1959 with a rich history rooted in classic golf course design by Ellis Maples. Similarly, Foxfire Country Club has been a fixture in the region since 1968, known for its traditional layout and scenic setting. Both courses add to the region’s reputation as a top golf destination, attracting enthusiasts from across the country.
The recent move by Rolling Pines LLC aligns with broader trends in the golf industry, where ownership groups focus on restoring and updating historic courses to meet modern standards and customer expectations. Their strategy of integrating renovation with community engagement aims to sustain and enhance the region’s golfing appeal for years to come.
Overall, the acquisitions mark a significant step for Rolling Pines LLC as it seeks to solidify its role in North Carolina’s competitive golf market, leveraging experienced leadership, targeted improvements, and a focus on preserving the region’s golfing legacy.
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Additional Resources
- PGA: 2025 PGA High School Golf National Invitational Returns to Pinehurst
- Wikipedia: Pinehurst Resort
- Grand Forks Herald: Red River Girls Golf Follows Up Title-Winning Season
- Google Search: Pinehurst Golf Courses
- Telegraph Herald: Local Sports News
- Google Scholar: Pinehurst Golf
- Palm Beach Post: Charlie Woods Scores at Pinehurst
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pinehurst
- Golf.com: Pinehurst No. 4 Closure and Greens Restoration
- Google News: Pinehurst Golf News
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