Viewfinder: Atlanta Athletic Club Preps Course for PGA

"The last thing you want to see is the ball go bounce, bounce, bounce," Ken Mangum, grounds and course director at the Atlanta Athletic Club, says as he talks about preparing the course for next week's PGA Championship.

But ground density and the difficulty of the course--with deeper bunking and a narrower fairway than when the club hosted the PGA in 2001--and which seasoned golfers like last year's champion Martin Kaymer admit is a challenge, isn't the only thing on Mangum's mind as he and his crew work diligently to get the Highlands Course in tip-top shape.

"TV coverage has gotten so much better," Mangum says, and viewers are more savvy. With the onset of high-def and 3D filming, Mangum, who has been with the Atlanta Athletic Club for 23 years, also has to pay attention to the course's aesthetics.

Hence, spectators will notice contrasting grass colors to easily differentiate the greens and the rough, as well as crepe myrtles that were planted to be in full bloom during championship week.

The club didn't escape this spring's storms, and crews have also been busy removing damaged trees to ensure spectator safety and enjoyment.

Mangum says he thinks the surrounding community is more aware that the championship is coming to town, and attributes that to the fact that while the club hosted the championship in 2001, nearby Johns Creek was not a city. But this time around the city has worked to generate buzz about the championship.

All in all, Mangum says he hopes spectators--those in person and those watching on TV--recognize the course as one of the most beautiful and challenging in the world.