Transforming Pine Knolls Golf Club: Bobby Evans’ Vision for the Future

Nestled in the heart of the Pine Knolls neighborhood, the Pine Knolls Golf Club has long been a cornerstone of community life. Recently, Bobby Evans has taken the reins as the new owner of this beloved 18-hole course, designed by the Poindexter Brothers back in 1969. After seven years of living in Pine Knolls and dreaming of this moment, Evans is not only a resident but a driving force for the club’s future.

The Transition of Ownership: A New Era for Pine Knolls

Evans purchased the Pine Knolls Golf Club from Jim Butler, a longtime resident who dedicated the last decade to revitalizing the course. Butler, now 89 years old, transformed the club into a thriving establishment after acquiring it in 2015. Under his watchful eye, the course flourished, becoming a popular spot for both seasoned players and newcomers alike.

“It was a great honor to inherit such a well-run establishment," Evans said while reflecting on the transition. He credited Butler for laying the groundwork for future success and for the dedication exhibited by staff, including Ryan Winfree, the head golf professional, and Don Messer, the superintendent.

Revitalizing a Community Gem

Evans credits much of the revival of the Pine Knolls Golf Club to the efforts of Winfree and Messer. “Don breathed life back into the course, while Ryan was pivotal in attracting players to Pine Knolls,” Evans noted. Winfree’s expertise as a tournament coordinator and Messer’s management of the greens were crucial in revitalizing both the course’s condition and its community presence.

Upon moving into Pine Knolls seven years ago, Evans saw potential in the golf course that extended beyond mere recreation. He recognized it as a venue that fosters connections and friendships among local residents—an opportunity he couldn’t let slip away.

Seizing the Opportunity: Why Evans Became Owner

Once the opportunity to buy the Pine Knolls Golf Club arose, Evans jumped at the chance. “I quickly realized this is an incredible operation,” he stated. Evans understood that if he didn’t act fast, someone else might seize the opportunity to take ownership and potentially alter the course’s community-focused ethos.

“I wanted to ensure that the golf course remained a local treasure rather than falling into the hands of a corporation that could prioritize profit over community,” he added, emphasizing his commitment to preserving the course’s essence.

Protecting Pine Knolls’ Legacy

Evans’ dedication to the golf club is deeply rooted in his desire to protect its legacy. He is wary of corporate takeovers that frequently occur in the golf industry, where clubs are converted into exclusive venues that prioritize profit margins over community engagement. “The other option could have been selling to land developers, which would have transformed this beautiful green space into houses,” he stated, highlighting his commitment to sustaining the course as a local hub.

His vision is clear: maintain a welcoming environment that encourages golfers of all backgrounds to enjoy the course while adhering to the values established by the previous ownership.

Enhancing Accessibility: Modernizing the Experience

One of Evans’ key initiatives is to modernize the experience at Pine Knolls Golf Club. He plans to implement online booking for tee times, making it easier for players to access the course. “Our website will provide golfers with the ability to see available slots, book their tee times, pay, and play—all from the comfort of their own homes,” Evans explained.

This modernization aims not only to simplify the process but also to attract a new generation of golfers. Evans is committed to keeping the course accessible, ensuring that it is enjoyable for players of all skill levels—from beginners to seasoned pros.

A Place for Community: Building Connections Through Golf

The Pine Knolls Golf Club serves as more than just a golf course; it is a community hub that fosters relationships and friendships among neighbors. “This isn’t a country club; it’s just a club in the country,” Evans remarked. Many golfers who came here for the first time didn’t know anyone but ended up forming lasting friendships and connections.

Through Evans’ leadership, the club is poised to enhance community engagement even further. "Families are bonding over golf, and that sense of connection is something special we aim to maintain and grow,” he added.

Commitment to Excellence: Ensuring a Quality Experience

Evans is dedicated to continuing the quality of experience established by Butler and his team. “It’s about keeping the course in excellent condition, making it enjoyable for everyone," he emphasized. With a mix of challenging and beginner-friendly holes, Pine Knolls Golf Club is designed to accommodate a range of golfing talents.

Moving forward, Evans plans to maintain active communication with members and community residents to gather feedback for course improvements. This ongoing dialogue will be crucial to ensuring that the golf club meets the needs and desires of all players.

Pine Knolls Golf Club’s Role in Local Culture

Located at 1100 Quail Hollow Road, Pine Knolls Golf Club stands as a landmark within the neighborhood. Its rolling greens and vibrant community atmosphere attract not only avid golfers but also families looking for leisure and recreation. Evans hopes to enhance this local culture through various events and tournaments, solidifying the club’s role within the community.

“Engaging with our members and hosting events will help us build a sense of belonging,” he reiterated, emphasizing the importance of fostering a vibrant social scene around the game of golf.

A Vision for the Future

As Bobby Evans embarks on this exciting journey as the new owner of Pine Knolls Golf Club, his vision extends far beyond the course itself. He sees it as an integral piece of Pine Knolls’ social fabric, where individuals can find camaraderie while also building a love for the game of golf.

Through innovation, community engagement, and a commitment to keeping the course accessible, Evans aims to preserve and enhance the legacy that has made Pine Knolls Golf Club a cherished destination for years to come.

With his passionate vision and dedication, the future looks bright for Pine Knolls Golf Club, ensuring its place as a cherished local gem for generations to come.