The PGA TOUR rolls into Orlando this week only to find a feisty Mother Nature challenging Bay Hill golf superintendent John Anderson, his staff and Tour professionals.
Anderson, a GCSAA member, has been fighting microscopic worms known as nematodes that have attacked the putting greens since late last year. The nematodes feed on the roots of the turfgrass, significantly weakening the plant. Above average humidity in the fall provided a perfect storm for the infestation of nematodes.
Leading plant pathologists from the region have joined Anderson and tour agronomists to address the issue. Some of the greens were resodded and overseeding was applied in mid-February.
Despite these challenges, tournament officials believe the greens will putt to an acceptable quality, with the remainder of the course in outstanding shape.
COURSE STATISTICS
| Yardage | Par | Rating | Slope | |
| Forward | 6220 | 72 | 70.5 | 129 |
| Regular | 6647 | 72 | 72.3 | 131 |
| Championship | 7267 | 72 | 75.3 | 140 |
COURSE CHARACTERISTICS
| Primary Grasses | Height of Cut | |
| Tees | Bermudagrass | 0.38' |
| Fairways | Bermudagrass | 0.38' |
| Greens | Bermudagrass | 0.13' |
| Rough | Bermudagrass | 1-1.5' |
COURSE NUMBERS
| Stimpmeter | 10.5 feet | |
| Sand bunkers | 103 | |
| Water Hazards | 7 |
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