News Summary
Rolling Pines LLC has expanded its golf management portfolio by acquiring the Country Club of Whispering Pines and Foxfire Country Club. This strategic move increases their presence to four 18-hole courses in the Sandhills region, reinforcing their commitment to enhancing the golfing experience while preserving the historical significance of the newly acquired properties. Plans for renovation and improved course management are already underway, with a focus on modernizing the facilities while honoring their heritage.
Southern Pines, North Carolina – Rolling Pines LLC has enhanced its golf portfolio by acquiring the Country Club of Whispering Pines and Foxfire Country Club, bringing the total number of 18-hole courses under their management to four in the Sandhills region. This strategic acquisition allows Rolling Pines, a management company under Mid Pines Development Group, to further solidify its presence in the area, currently known for its rich golf heritage.
The Country Club of Whispering Pines features two courses designed by notable architect Ellis Maples, while Foxfire Country Club boasts two courses crafted by Gene Hamm. Both clubs were obtained from GreatLife Golf Management, but the financial details of the transactions remain undisclosed. These acquisitions follow Rolling Pines’ ownership of well-established public golf properties: Pine Needles, Mid Pines, and Southern Pines.
Kelly Miller, the managing partner of the new ownership group, has been actively involved in the management of Pine Needles since the 1980s and has played a crucial role in the company’s past acquisitions. Miller signaled a strong commitment to enhancing the newly acquired courses, highlighting the opportunity presented by North Carolina’s growth in the golfing sector.
Renovation Plans and Course Management
Moving forward, Rolling Pines intends to engage renowned golf architect Kyle Franz, who previously restored Mid Pines and Pine Needles, to develop master plans for Whispering Pines and Foxfire. However, the restoration will focus on improving course designs and overall conditions rather than strictly adhering to historical specifications.
The Country Club of Whispering Pines has been operational since 1959, while Foxfire Country Club started in 1968. Under the new management, both clubs will now allow guests from existing properties—Pine Needles, Southern Pines, and Mid Pines—to access their amenities, although they will maintain a separate operational structure for membership.
Community Commitment
Haresh Tharani, another partner in the ownership group, emphasized North Carolina’s appeal, citing its favorable climate, low taxes, and the prestige associated with the Sandhills as prime golf destinations. Rolling Pines is not only focused on expanding its golf offerings but also on committing to the local community and preserving the historical significance of the courses.
With these new acquisitions, Rolling Pines LLC now manages a total of 126 holes of golf in the region, demonstrating their dedication to long-term stewardship of the properties. The blending of modern improvements with the historical essence of the clubs aims to create a unique golfing experience that stays true to the roots of the game.
Conclusion
The expansion of Rolling Pines LLC signifies an important development in the golf landscape of Southern Pines, continuing to attract enthusiasts to the Sandhills area. As renovations and improvements unfold, the new ownership group aims to provide high-quality golf experiences while fostering a sense of community among golfers and residents alike.
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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

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