Whispering Pines Golf Club, located in Trinity, Texas, is the top-rated private golf course in the state and the host of the prestigious biennial Spirit International tournament. The course, designed by Chet Williams, faced major damage due to a 100-year flood just six months prior to the tournament, casting doubt on whether the event would take place. Shea Morenz, a former University of Texas football quarterback and professional athlete, was amazed by the course’s recovery after witnessing the devastation caused by the flood firsthand.
The history of Whispering Pines Golf Club dates back to a camp hosted on the property, where a game called “olf” was played without traditional greens. The popularity of the game among campers led to the development of a full-fledged golf course by course founder Corby Robertson, an energy magnate with the means to create a top-tier facility. In the 1990s, Whispering Pines was established and has since earned top rankings, including Golfweek’s Best Private Courses in Texas.
The Spirit International Amateur Golf Tournament, inaugurated in 2001, features teams from 20 countries across six continents, competing in a unique team event format. The tournament brings together top amateur golfers to represent their countries and compete on an international stage. The American team, led by former Spirit player Nathan Smith as captain, boasts a talented roster including players like David Ford, Tommy Morrison, Jasmine Koo, and Asterisk Talley, aiming for their sixth victory in seven tournaments.
The 2024 Spirit International opening ceremonies kicked off the competition, with matches scheduled to take place from Thursday to Saturday. Despite the recent flood damage, the Whispering Pines course has been restored to playable condition, showcasing its resilience and beauty. The neighboring short course, The Needler, and the iconic 15th hole will require more extensive repairs, but the main course is ready to welcome 80 international players for the tournament.
Corby Robertson, the driving force behind Whispering Pines and the Spirit International, expressed relief and pride in the course’s recovery and readiness for the tournament. As an invested founder and caretaker of the property, Robertson has seen the impact of nature’s forces on the course, but remains committed to its restoration and improvement. While focusing on the tournament, Robertson also expressed enthusiasm for the success of his alma mater, the University of Texas Longhorns football team, in the College Football Playoff under coach Steve Sarkisian.
Despite the challenges posed by the flood and ongoing repairs, the Spirit International at Whispering Pines Golf Club represents a testament to resilience, community support, and the enduring spirit of competition. The event brings together elite amateur golfers from around the world to showcase their skills on a world-class course, creating lasting memories and experiences for participants and spectators alike. The legacy of Whispering Pines and the Spirit International continues to inspire athletes, golf enthusiasts, and fans of the sport across the globe.
