Field guide: DuPont sticking to its roots amid major revitalization

Ed. note: As GOLF’s chief photographer and visual editor, Christian Hafer visits some of the most gorgeous and exclusive golf courses and properties in the world. Here, in his Field Guide, he’ll take you along for the ride. Lucky for us, Christian never leaves home without his camera. Follow Christian Hafer on Instagram here.

With three courses, a new practice facility and a clubhouse that’s as grand as a museum — DuPont Country Club is undergoing a major revitalization but sticking close to its roots.

The Championship course was redone in 2005 by Lester George and has matured into an enjoyable but challenging walk. The tree lines that crowd most courses of this era have been removed, and there’s a variety of set-up options that maintain a close transition from green to tee.

On a recent afternoon at the Wilmington, Del., spot there’s a buzz of workers building out additions, specifically on the otherworldly practice facility, complete with a multi-hole short-game area and short course. DuPont has given its guests and members an unsurpassed level of amenities — but it’s still focused heavily on golf. The second course is getting a full rework to lengthen it to over 7,000 yards. The greens will be tweaked and rehabbed and some trees will be removed.

DuPont is the perfect reflection of a club with a long history adapting to the current era, as it’s focusing on families and its classic golf courses. But to be sure, these courses are no slouch. You’ll be ready for another go.