June 23, 2015 update: Yesterday I visited Cobb’s for the first time since late May. I was simply astounded by the transformation in progress at the Karakung course. The new superintendent, Eli “Papo” Rodriguez, is very experienced (previously at 5 Ponds, and also at some high-end clubs like Shinnecock) and hardworking (if there was 8 days in a week, he’d work the 8th day too!) and doing wonders. He has the irrigation system on Karakung working and most fairways and tees are green and grassy. With a little help from some chemical applications, weeds are being eradicated. Give him and his crew of 12 until I say next year at this time and you might not recognize Karakung, also known as The Abster-piece after the course architect Ab Smith. See the photos from yesterday of Karakung below:
