FORE! Gator Lakes Golf Course reopens Published June 1, 2007 By Jon Ortiz 1st SOSVS HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- The Gator Lakes Golf Course reopened May 25 after a renovation project that lasted nearly seven months. The course closed down for most of last year after it suffered from drought and outdated drainage and irrigation systems, prompting a $1.1 million greens renovation project. The renovation work included rebuilding the greens, planting grass sprigs, reshaping the fairway bunkers, laying new sand and improving the irrigation system. Although the course underwent major repairs, the original 72-par golf course design has remained mostly intact. Part of the golf course reopened in November, allowing golfers to play on temporary greens as most of the grass fully matured. Gator Lakes golfers came out on re-opening day to celebrate the ribbon-cutting ceremony and to compete in the Memorial Classic golf tournament. For some, it was a chance to meet the new Gator Lakes manager. "I feel that the greens renovation is a great sign of the things that are going to come out here," said Jeff Gutierrez, golf course manager. "The greens are not going to be the only face lift out here. We will also change some old programs, initiate some new ones and expand our resale merchandise inventory to truly make Gator Lakes Golf Course your one-stop shop." Mr. Gutierrez encourages all golfers with access to Gator Lakes to try out the course and learn about the upcoming programs such as youth and adult golf clinics scheduled for this summer. In addition, the course is available for squadron or group tournaments. The Oasis Café is also open for special functions. Tee times at Gator Lakes begin daily at 7 a.m. and end at dusk. For more information, call Gator Lakes at 881-2251 or visit www.hurlburtfieldservices.com.