The Shape of Things to Come

Below are excerpts from an article that originally appeared in Golf Course Management.

As an architect, Jason Straka gets it.

He realizes that each project, whether a new build or a renovation, is under the microscope. Often, the eyes that closely monitor his work are those of golf club members who want the facility to be shaped according to their own vision.

As he embarks on a project in one of the fastest-growing complexes in the country, Straka is prepared to soothe their concerns.

Straka, one half of Fry/Straka Global Golf Course Design, launches a renovation this month at The Oaks Club in Osprey, Fla. Straka is in charge of redesigning the Heron Course, designed on behalf of Hurdzan/Fry Environmental Golf Design, at The Oaks, a gated community with two golf courses that earlier this year scaled new heights in its total of equity members (536). Some of them — including some who may have felt disregarded in previous course renovations — have met with Straka, who has been more than willing to hear their thoughts. In 2007, the other 18- hole course, The Eagle, was rebuilt.

“I’ve already had many of the members say that they have not had anyone listen to them in the past, scared that this job we are going to do will make the course too darn hard. But they are so happy when I call and talk to them, explain that we will do what we say we are going to do, and then follow up with them,” Straka says. “I want to do a great job on all of my projects, but it will be wonderful to give these members something that will satisfy them and a process they will be proud to be part of.”

Straka certainly has references to show that he is making a difference. In July, Golf Inc. revealed the winners in its 2014 Renovation of the Year competition. Straka oversaw two projects that claimed prizes. In the daily-fee category, his work at Camelback Golf Club’s Ambiente course earned first place; what he accomplished at Columbia (Mo.) Country Club took third place in the private course division.

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