News Summary
Jim Woods has revitalized the local golf scene at Omni Bedford Springs Resort with his leadership and community-focused initiatives. Since the course’s reopening, he has introduced events like the Bedford Open to enhance participation. Woods also coaches the Bedford Bisons high school golf team, ensuring access to the course for young players. With a rich history dating back to 1895, the Old Course has garnered recognition for its unique holes and welcoming atmosphere. Future plans include a junior club championship to nurture young talent, solidifying the course’s legacy in the community.
Bedford, Pennsylvania: Jim Woods Champions Local Golf Community at Omni Bedford Springs Resort
The Old Course at Omni Bedford Springs Resort, a premier public golf course in Pennsylvania, has seen a surge in local engagement thanks to initiatives led by head pro Jim Woods. Since its reopening in 2007, the course has gained a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to accessibility, distinguishing it from many prestigious private golf courses. In 2024, Woods launched the inaugural Bedford Open, a two-man best-ball event aimed at fostering community involvement and enhancing the local golfing landscape.
In addition to the Bedford Open, the golf calendar at Omni Bedford Springs is vibrant with events such as the Generation Cup and competitive challenge matches against nearby clubs, echoing the format of the Ryder Cup. Woods’ dedication to promoting the sport extends beyond events; he also coaches the high school golf team for the Bedford Bisons, securing access for student competitions at the course. His efforts have reshaped the perception of golf in the area, encouraging participation from individuals of varied professional backgrounds.
The Course’s Rich History
The Old Course at Bedford Springs has a storied past, having originally been designed in 1895 by architect Spencer Oldham. Over the years, the layout has undergone significant redesigns by celebrated golf course architects A.J. Tillinghast and Donald Ross, enhancing its golfing experience while retaining its historical significance. The course holds the distinction of being the first 6,000-yard course in the United States upon its inception, showcasing innovative design techniques of its time.
Golf Digest has praised the course for its unique and charming holes, such as the par-three “Volcano,” which presents a challenging 223-yard uphill shot. This blend of historical significance and modern upgrades—featuring improved greens, fairways, and tees—makes Bedford Springs a beloved destination for golfing enthusiasts.
Rise in Popularity During the Pandemic
Interest in golf saw a notable increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, attributed to the sport’s outdoor nature and the opportunity it provided for social distancing. In response to this spike in popularity, Omni Bedford Springs experienced unprecedented success in 2024, achieving record numbers in rounds played and guest experiences. The course continues to thrive as it adapts to the needs of a growing golfing community.
Future Plans for Youth Development
Looking ahead, plans are underway for the first junior club championship at Bedford Springs, set to take place in 2025. This initiative aims to nurture and develop the next generation of golfers, further securing the legacy of the sport within the local community.
In summary, under Jim Woods’ leadership, the Old Course at Omni Bedford Springs Resort not only honors its historic roots but also innovatively embraces community engagement and youth development. By fostering an inclusive environment that promotes accessibility and participation, Woods is not just enhancing the local golf experience but is also paving the way for future generations of golfers.
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Additional Resources
- Altoona Mirror: Bedford Springs Young Golfers
- GolfPass: Friendliest Public Golf Course Staff
- PennLive: Top 20 Public Golf Courses in PA
- Washington Examiner: Bedford Springs Golf Course History
- Golf Digest: Pennsylvania Best Golf Courses Rankings
- Google Search: Bedford Springs Golf Course
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore 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 Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
