Southern California's No. 1 Golf Source
STROKE OF THE DAY |
"The players themselves can be classified into two groups- the attractions and the entry fees." |
-Jimmy Demaret |
SITE
SEARCH
GOLF
CALENDAR
travel
|
||||
 One of the grandest entries on the desert landscape is the Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix. Opened in November 2002, the state’s largest luxury resort features the Wildfire Golf Club, a 36-hole facility with courses designed by Arnold Palmer and Nick Faldo. The Palmer Course plays to 7,145 yards from the back tees with the layout weaving through arroyos, saguaro cactus and mesquite trees. With wide fairways and relatively large greens, the course is manageable for players of all skill levels who play from the correct set of tees. As with many Palmer courses, the par-5s require length off the tee and strategy on approach shots, whether it’s the second or third stroke on the hole. Each of the par-5s are protected by waste areas right and left, wash areas that bisect lay-up areas or water that requires a significant carry off the tee. At 6,846 yards from the back tees, the par-71 Faldo Course has a vastly different layout. With 106 bunkers and tightly-mowed collection areas surrounding many greens, the Faldo Course places greater emphasis on creative shot-making throughout the round. At first glance, it appears that Faldo went overboard with bunkers, but after playing the course it’s apparent that many traps were strategically placed for visual intimidation. The 452-yard, par-4 fourth hole is a case in point. From the left side of the fairway, two large, deep bunkers appear to be guarding the small green. But the bunkers are 20 yards short of the green and do little to stop a well-struck approach shot. The 16th hole is perhaps the most enjoyable hole on the course. Usually playing downwind, the 314-yard par-4 can be easily reached by long hitters. But with seven bunkers guarding the landing area and green, only a well-struck drive will find glory on the large green. Located 20 minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport, the resort also features a European-style spa and fitness center, swimming pools, 10 restaurants and ample meeting space. n |
||||
RSS Subscribe
Digg This Article
