News Summary
Rolling Pines LLC, part of Mid Pines Development Group, has acquired Whispering Pines and Foxfire Country Clubs, enhancing its golf management presence in North Carolina’s Sandhills region. The acquisitions aim to preserve historic courses while improving playability and community engagement. Plans include course renovations overseen by golf architect Kyle Franz, ensuring a blend of heritage and modern golfing experiences. The acquisitions underscore Rolling Pines’ commitment to providing quality golf access for locals and visitors alike, solidifying the area’s status as a premier golf destination.
Rolling Pines LLC Expands Golf Portfolio in North Carolina with Acquisition of Whispering Pines and Foxfire Country Clubs
Southern Pines, North Carolina — Rolling Pines LLC, a prominent golf management company operating under Mid Pines Development Group, has announced the acquisition of two additional golf course complexes, significantly growing its presence in North Carolina’s Sandhills region. This strategic move expands the company’s portfolio of public golf properties and underscores its commitment to long-term stewardship of historic courses.
Details of the Acquisitions
The company has acquired the Country Club of Whispering Pines, which features two 18-hole courses designed by noted architect Ellis Maples, and Foxfire Country Club, comprising two courses designed by Gene Hamm. These courses are part of a significant purchase from GreatLife Golf Management. Financial specifics of the transactions have not been publicly disclosed.
The acquisition brings Rolling Pines’ total managed golf holes to 126, further cementing its role as a major operator in the region. Both clubs, established in 1959 (Whispering Pines) and 1968 (Foxfire), carry historical significance and are intended to be part of the company’s strategy for maintaining and enhancing golf offerings in the area.
Plans for Course Improvements and Renovations
Rolling Pines plans to engage golf architect Kyle Franz to develop master plans and oversee renovations for the newly acquired courses. Franz has previously worked on restoring and revitalizing Pine Needles and Mid Pines, returning them to their original Donald Ross designs. The company’s approach to improvements at Whispering Pines and Foxfire will focus on enhancing overall design and course conditions, with an emphasis on improving playability and experience, rather than strict historical restoration.
This focus aligns with the goal of elevating the courses’ quality while respecting their heritage, ensuring they are competitive and appealing to both local members and visiting golfers.
Community and Regional Impact
North Carolina’s appealing climate, low taxes, and the prestige of the Sandhills region continue to attract golf enthusiasts and investors alike. Haresh Tharani, a partner in the new ownership group, highlighted these factors as reasons for investment, along with the region’s reputation as a premier golf destination.
Rolling Pines has also emphasized its commitment to the local community, with plans to offer public access to Whispering Pines and Foxfire courses. While the courses will operate independently of existing membership structures, they will be available to guests, broadening access to quality golf experiences in the area.
Operational Strategy and Future Outlook
Existing properties, including Pine Needles, Southern Pines, and Mid Pines, will also benefit from the new acquisitions, with efforts underway to ensure consistency and quality across all properties. Management indicates that the focus will be on maintaining the historical significance of the courses while providing modern, high-quality golf experiences for the public.
Kelly Miller, managing partner of the ownership group, has been involved with Pine Needles since the 1980s and played a key role in previous acquisitions. Miller and the team see the addition of Whispering Pines and Foxfire as an opportunity to improve golf amenities and promote regional growth, leveraging North Carolina’s increasing popularity as a premier golf destination.
Conclusion
Overall, the expansion by Rolling Pines LLC marks a significant step in consolidating its presence within North Carolina’s golf industry. By investing in course renovations and fostering community engagement, the company aims to preserve the region’s golf heritage while offering elevated experiences for players of all levels. The acquisitions highlight a long-term strategic approach to responsible management and continuous improvement of the properties under their stewardship.
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Additional Resources
- PGA: 2025 PGA High School Golf National Invitational Returns to Pinehurst
- Wikipedia: Pinehurst Resort
- Grand Forks Herald: Red River Girls Golf Follows Up Title-Winning Season
- Google Search: Pinehurst Golf Courses
- Telegraph Herald: Local Sports News
- Google Scholar: Pinehurst Golf
- Palm Beach Post: Charlie Woods Scores at Pinehurst
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pinehurst
- Golf.com: Pinehurst No. 4 Closure and Greens Restoration
- Google News: Pinehurst Golf News
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
