Weekapaug, a nine-hole members’ club near the Atlantic, was converted from a public course but lacked strategic design. Despite strong membership growth and a stunning clubhouse, its 1962 layout failed to embrace its seaside setting. Seeking revitalization, the Club enlisted Jeff Bradley for his expertise in shaping bunkers and enhancing course definition.
Weekapaug Golf Club
Weekapaug, Rhode Island
Located on a salt pond just off the Atlantic, Weekapaug is a nine-hole members’ club that was converted from a public facility. The newly formed Club had made great strides in developing its Membership and building a beautiful clubhouse. However, its 1962 layout did little to reflect its seaside setting, with oval bunkers typical of the era and minimal strategic variety.
Seeking revitalization, the Club enlisted Jeff Bradley for his expertise in bunker shaping. Bradley partnered with Zinkand Golf Design (ZGD) to bring deeper architectural knowledge, particularly in seaside golf. Together, they reimagined the course, incorporating strong coastal breezes and intricate hazards to add both beauty and strategic depth to the layout.
The bunkers were reshaped to be visually striking and strategically placed, improving variety and addressing safety concerns. Existing greens were expanded to connect better with the new bunkers, creating fresh hole locations and more engaging shot options. In some cases, new bunkers were placed closer to greens to enhance course strategy and definition.
Much credit goes to Weekapaug’s Greens Committee, which provided the autonomy needed to make real-time field adjustments during construction. This flexibility significantly improved the final product, allowing for refinements in shaping and placement that would not have been possible under rigid pre-set plans.
With the bunker renovation a resounding success, the Club moved on to address flooding issues on the second fairway and improve the irrigation system. Rising spring floods had reduced the reservoir’s capacity, so the fairway was raised and recontoured with fill excavated from the pond. Drainage improvements ensured excess rainwater was directed efficiently.
Tee locations were also improved, replacing small perched boxes with larger, strategically positioned tees that blended with the natural landscape. Forward tees were added for better playability, and some holes were lengthened. The result of Weekapaug’s two major renovations is a thriving club with a fashionable niche along the Rhode Island coast.
Images By: Dimpled Rock