Lancaster Country Club prides itself on innovation towards its engaging outdoor areas. The crown jewel of LCC’s well-kept grounds is our golf courses. Designed by William Flynn during the golden age of golf course architecture, with the addition of the Highlands nine-hole course in the 1990’s, LCC’s courses have challenged generations of avid golf enthusiasts.
However, we know that commitment is necessary to provide a consistent, championship-level experience for our members in the long-term. Josh Saunders, our Director of Golf Course Operations, and his team have elevated LCC’s courses to attract international acclaim and rave reviews from our members and their guests.
What makes our golf course special?
With over 25 years of experience in golf, Saunders joined LCC after working at some of the most prestigious and respected courses in the US, including Augusta National Golf Club, Westchester Country Club and Kinloch Golf Club. He led operations and revitalized a hidden gem in Pittsburgh, Longue Vue Club. His efforts were rewarded when the club was granted the 2021 US Amateur. As a steward of the game and industry, Saunders has served as a mentor and speaker at associations and universities across the country. Following his first year as Golf Course Superintendent, Saunders was named a finalist for Superintendent of the Year in 2013.
Thanks to Saunder’s leadership, we’ve heightened our already superior golfing experience to a greater caliber. Lancaster Country Club’s courses are different from any other club for 3 reasons.
1. Player-centric experience
Josh Saunders came to the LCC with tournament experience from major championships, USGA events, the Masters, the Ryder Cup, and several state-level events. As a player himself, Saunders made it his mission to change the dynamics of the game at LCC. Instead of focusing solely on the argonomics of the grounds, our team is maintaining with the player experience in mind first. “All decisions are made from the golfer’s perspective,” Saunders says.
With the motto, “Championship conditions on a daily basis,” LCC is focusing on the playability of our course. Saunders makes it a point to engage with members to continually improve the course, whether via social media, publications, or even chatting with them while on the green.
2 - Unique course challenges from Saunders’ perspective
Originally designed by the great William Flynn, LCC’s Flynn course uses the land’s existing terrain to hold the interest of the player with challenging topography amongst other design characteristics synonymous with Flynn’s layouts.
The recently-restored Flynn course includes:
- Meadowcreek: This includes the front 9 of the Flynn course. Meadowcreek is known for its meandering routing, which requires great strategy and placement from the tee to navigate the each hole properly for scoring.
- Dogwood: This includes the back 9 of the Flynn course. It’s particularly challenging because of its length and elevation leading to five holes of uphill second shots.
The Highlands course is an additional 9 holes designed to be user-friendly. Highlands is often in rotation during the season. The course has challenging par 4s, but provides the perfect environment for players of all skill levels and is a favorite for family tee times and beginner players.
Saunders went on to add that a unique feature of the Flynn course is that you have to take advantage of the scoring opportunities of holes 2-7 as the success of each overall round is largely determined by your performance of these critical holes. Another defining feature at LCC is that you must score at holes 2-7 on the Flynn course. That means the success for each round is largely determined by your performance at these critical holes.
3 - An all-inclusive golf experience
Under Saunders’ leadership, LCC is working hard to balance access to championship-level courses, equipment, and training while building a family-friendly environment.
We’re investing in our courses and facilities for all age levels. New players can enjoy experience-appropriate coaching while aspiring champions can access a multitude of resources to improve their game.
The bottom line
Golf may be a legacy sport, but it requires frequent innovation. Thanks to Saunders and his team, we’re able to offer championship conditions that lend themselves to a true championship experience for all members. Whether you’re just learning how to play or need to practice for a tournament, LCC’s golf courses provide an exceptional experience.