Welcome to PGA National Resort, a golfing paradise located in beautiful Florida. Since its opening in 1981, this renowned resort has been a favorite destination for golf enthusiasts from around the world. With 99 holes of golf spread across its meticulously designed courses, PGA National offers an unforgettable experience for players of all levels.
The Champion Course: A Testament to Golfing Excellence
Among the courses at PGA National, the Champion Course stands out as a true masterpiece. Originally designed by Tom Fazio, this course has witnessed prestigious events such as the 1983 Ryder Cup and the 1987 PGA Championship. In 1990, golfing legend Jack Nicklaus took on the challenge of redesigning the course, adding his own touch of brilliance to its already impressive layout. The Champion Course is famous for its challenging Bear Trap, a series of three water-laden holes starting at No. 15. This section of the course demands precision and has become an iconic feature that tests even the most skilled golfers. Water hazards are present on every hole except two, adding an element of excitement and strategy to each round of play.
Explore the Vast Array of Options
At PGA National, there is no shortage of golfing options to choose from. Start your journey with The Fazio, previously named The Haig, a course dedicated to the legendary Walter Hagen, a five-time PGA Championship winner. Designed by Tom and George Fazio and opened in 1980, this course has recently undergone a renovation led by third-generation designer Tom Fazio II. The Palmer Course and the Estate Course, located a short distance from the main resort, offer additional possibilities for an unforgettable golfing experience. The Estate Course, in particular, hidden away from the bustling resort, has become somewhat of a hidden gem for those seeking a more secluded and peaceful round. To ensure convenient access to these courses, PGA National offers complimentary shuttle services for its guests.
A Delightful Golfing Adventure for Everyone
What sets PGA National apart is its commitment to providing a diverse range of experiences for golfers of all ages. If you’re visiting with your family, you can enjoy The Match, a course designed by Andy Staples in 2021. The Match offers a unique twist on traditional golf, allowing players to engage in various match play formats such as best ball, foursomes, and skins. The winner of each hole has the privilege of choosing the tee location for the next hole, introducing a strategic element that adds excitement and creativity to every round. With no designated par, only minimum and maximum yardages marked by dock pilings, The Match offers a dynamic and thrilling golfing adventure. Additionally, The Staple, a nine-hole short course within The Match, provides a perfect environment for beginners and individuals seeking a quick round. Its holes range from 60 to 130 yards and feature undulating greens and challenging shelf placements.
Unleash Your Skills on Unforgettable Greens
The greens at The Match are the true defense of this unique course. Inspired by the famous “Template” holes envisioned by golf architecture pioneers such as Seth Raynor, C.B. MacDonald, and Donald Ross, The Match presents an array of challenging green structures. Notable examples include the lion’s mouth green at the third hole and the punchbowl green at the ninth hole. The climax awaits at the 18th hole, where a Biarritz par 3 over water provides an unforgettable test. Ranging from 122 to 198 yards, these greens demand precision and skill from golfers of all levels.
Unleash Your Creativity on the Course
The Match’s playing area features fairway-height turf grass, emphasizing the ground game and encouraging creative approaches and strategic chipping. With minimal hazards, including less than 20 natural rough-hewn, irregular-edged bunkers, The Match invites players to explore various strategies and enjoy a fun-filled round of golf.
A Golfing Haven for Buddies Trips
If you’re planning a buddies trip, look no further than PGA National’s must-play tee times. The Match and The Staple courses offer the perfect blend of challenge and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking a break from the intensity of the Champion Course or simply looking to squeeze in a few more holes before sunset, these courses provide an ideal environment. Embracing a more laid-back approach to golf, The Match’s slogan, “because nobody cares what you shot!” perfectly captures the spirit of these exciting rounds. Join fellow golfers and embark on an unforgettable buddies trip at PGA National Resort.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What makes the Champion Course at PGA National unique?
The Champion Course at PGA National is renowned for its challenging Bear Trap, a series of three water-laden holes starting at No. 15. Designed by golfing legend Jack Nicklaus, this course has hosted prestigious events like the Ryder Cup and PGA Championship, offering an unforgettable test for golfers of all levels.
What amenities does PGA National offer for golfers?
PGA National Resort offers a vast array of golfing options, including courses like The Fazio, The Palmer Course, and The Estate Course. Complimentary shuttle services are provided for convenient access to these courses, ensuring a seamless golfing experience for guests.
Are there options for families and beginners at PGA National?
Yes, PGA National caters to families and beginners with unique courses like The Match, designed by Andy Staples, offering various match play formats and The Staple, a nine-hole short course perfect for beginners. These courses provide a delightful and inclusive golfing adventure for all ages and skill levels.
What makes The Match course stand out from traditional golf courses?
The Match course at PGA National introduces a unique twist with no designated par and minimum/maximum yardages marked by dock pilings. It features challenging green structures inspired by golf architecture pioneers, providing a dynamic and thrilling golfing adventure for players seeking creativity and strategy.
Is PGA National suitable for buddies trips?
Absolutely! PGA National offers must-play tee times on courses like The Match and The Staple, perfect for buddies trips seeking a blend of challenge and relaxation. Embracing a laid-back approach, these courses provide an ideal environment for unforgettable rounds with friends, capturing the true essence of camaraderie on the greens.
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