Troubled waters - golf's future in a thirsty world
Some golf course operators will soon find themselves battling for enough water to keep their businesses afloat
The United Nations has urged world leaders to put the looming crisis over water shortages at the top of the global agenda. In the U.S., there’s scarcely a region not taking stock of its water supplies and how they are governed. There’s also growing concern within the golf industry that its most important natural resource could be drying up. How worried should we be, and what can we do about it? One thing seems certain: to do nothing is to risk everything.More and more golf course operators today find themselves battling for enough water to keep their businesses afloat.The good sense of conserving even in times of plenty is hardly a new idea. The concept is central to the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis. Yet as history’s litany of failed economies and even empires affirms, it is a lesson man struggles to heed. The command of power and resources transitions constantly and fortunes move with that flow.As the United States ventures deeper into a 21st century of soaring oil prices and sinking financial confidence, concern over the fate of one resource, perhaps the ultimate resource, may come to override all else. Water.Record droughts across the country have drained lakes and rivers, forcing communities and lawmakers to take stock of water resources and the regulations that govern them. Even in areas spared the worst, irregular weather patterns, including floods and record snowfalls, have dealt their own problems. The net result is growing uncertainty about the constancy of supply.As one of the most visible and significant consumers of such a staple, golf often finds itself in the firing line. Unlike a manufacturing plant whose use of water plays out behind brick walls, golf courses are easy targets every time they run a sprinkler. That golf is a game where the product is a leisure activity, not food or medicine, further emboldens opponents.As a result, more and more golf course operators find themselves battling for enough water to keep their businesses afloat. Scarcity may not be new to the Western U.S. but its degree and what’s at risk is certainly on the rise. In California and Nevada, for example, local water districts are writing checks for as much as $3 per square foot to landowners, including golf courses, who get rid of turf in favor of low-water use landscaping.East of the Mississippi, the prospect that there might not be enough water to go around has arrived with an alarming jolt. South Carolina is suing North Carolina over withdrawals from the Catawba River that spans their border. Georgia wants to move its state line north to get more of the Tennessee River, contending it mistakenly lost a portion of the river in a flawed survey in 1818.Across the board, the stakes are high and the rules of engagement invariably hard to follow. Myriad governments, agencies, authorities and other groups have a say in who gets how much water and when. In some instances laws are changing. But even where laws remain unchanged, their interpretation is being redefined. Regardless of the method, the goal is the same: ensuring enough water for the not-so-rainy days.The upshot for golf course owners is an unavoidable battle on multiple fronts. It will not be enough to carry on blithely once rains return to drought areas or even in areas where water may be plentiful today.Golf will need to present a sound scientific case that its water use is clean and efficient. It will need to underpin that case with the economic rationale that more than just a sport, golf is an industry that delivers a $76 billion annual bounty, according to the latest economic impact study. That case will need to be presented to politicians and the public, all the while balanced with the ethical consideration that at the end of the day there are things in the life of a community more important than a game.Moreover, the case cannot be made and won overnight. On the contrary, many predict it will become as much a part of taking care of business as negotiating insurance rates or complying with labor laws. As Bruce Charlton told members of the American Society of Golf Course Architects when they elected him president early in 2008, water is the “bloodstream” of any golf course. “And the water issue will be ongoing and will only rise in importance.”Populations and therefore consumption continue to grow. One recent Virginia Tech projection suggested that the U.S. could be home to as many as one billion people by the end of this century. Pitted against a finite resource, any increase in demand diminishes the share available.As long as golf needs water it will need to say so.The immediate question is whether golf can get its act together soon enough and astutely enough to shape its fate or whether regulators will do so first. Dr. Bob Carrow, a University of Georgia professor who is the lead scientist developing a comprehensive educational program on water conservation on golf courses for the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, says the window of opportunity for golf to get in ahead of stringent, potentially damaging regulation is closing.There are two fundamental obstacles for golf course owners. One is physical. No two golf courses are created equal; so while water supply might be in clear and present danger for one owner, another just a few miles down the road may not share that sense of urgency. Some owners have their own legal representation. Many independent owners do not. Getting a critical mass and necessary resources behind any campaign could be tough.The second consideration is cultural. As one attorney representing the industry’s claim to water observed: “Golf course owners are not used to kicking and clawing and scraping to get what they want.” Property taxes and depreciation prompted toes into those waters, but for the most part issues affecting golf operations have been local and dealt with from facility to facility.In contrast, many other industries devote significant resources to protecting their collective interests. In addition to lawyers, they retain lobbyists and channel money to political candidates. Golf is so disparate, with multiple business models and stakeholders, that such long-term, unified campaigning is virtually unknown.If golf course owners have been slow to rally, industry suppliers including irrigation companies, turfgrass growers, and chemical manufacturers have been highly active. Along with researchers, their efforts and innovations have markedly improved golf’s record on prudent water use.Water is now applied more precisely and efficiently than ever. New turf varieties require less water or get by on lesser quality water; products exist to help plants get more out of what rain does fall, and soil moisture sensors dictate irrigation on the basis of need not intuition.That is all good news that needs telling to the right people. That was the rationale for the first National Golf Day in Washington, D.C., in April 2008. Golf course owners, superintendents, builders, PGA professionals and club managers, came together to present golf’s story to lawmakers and media.David Fay, World Golf Foundation chairman and United States Golf Association executive director, told an audience at the National Press Club that attendees represented a “very strong industry coalition.” Fay stressed golf’s “extremely positive” impact on the nation’s economic health, its “environmental stewardship” as well as the industry’s “very positive charitable and human impact” on society.Those three elements – economy, environment, community – offer sturdy legs for a stool on which any future industry campaign could stand.Still, it takes time to win hearts and minds. It is worth noting that a week after the first National Golf Day, Earth Day, conceived to generate awareness of environmental degradation, celebrated its 38th anniversary.That is not to say that golf has not won political gains or at least concessions on the water front in some parts of the country. But ask anyone who has fought those battles in Florida, California, Georgia, Colorado, or the Carolinas, and they will tell you it is hard going. Especially when supply is low and emotions are high.Their experience suggests, like that of the Pharaoh in Joseph’s story, that it makes more sense to take action when you can afford to, rather than waiting until you must.
From: AsianGolfBusiness
17th July 2008 Vegas golf club removes turf It's not often you see the general manager of a golf course hugging the man who's digging up the grass on his fairways and replacing it with something similar to desert gravel. That though is exactly what Stephen Goldstein, who's in charge of the Black Mountain Golf and Country Club outside Las Vegas did, after bringing his golf cart to an abrupt stop on the way back to the club house. Mr Goldstein is having 55 acres (22 hectares) of the grass on his course removed, out of a total of 168 acres It's costing between $2m and $3m (£1m - £1.5m) to have done. It should save him more than $50,000 (£25,000) a year. "The main reason was financial", says Mr Goldstein. "We knew that as time went on that water costs were going to increase." "There was going to be a time when we would either be mandated to reduce our water consumption or obviously from a financial condition it would be difficult for us to water all the areas." Water in Las Vegas is at a premium. One of the most important cities in the United States is slap-bang in the middle of one of the driest areas in the world. The reason Mr Goldstein can afford to tear up some of his grass is because the Southern Nevada Water Authority is so keen to get people and businesses here to use less water that it's paying them $1.50 for each square foot of grass they remove. So for example there will only be grass on the top of the Tee Boxes, not on the sides, and the rough will now be predominately gravel, with hardy trees and cacti growing on them So some domestic gardens now no longer have grass and thirsty shrubs in them. They have gravel, desert landscaping, and cacti. Indeed new housing developments are not allowed to put in gardens. This part of the US has suffered almost a decade of drought. Las Vegas is at the sharp end, but all the states in the region are affected. There's plenty of disagreement about what's causing the drought. Many here say it's just a dry spell, that the rains will return. But the General Manager of the Southern Nevada Water Authority, Patricia Mulroy, says there's no doubt in her mind that man-made climate change is to blame. "We're going to have to change our whole approach to water management in this part of the United States", she says. By: Matthew Price - BBC
Olympic Golf: Your Complete Travel Guide ⛳ Golf returns to the Olympic stage at two of the world's most storied venues over the next decade. Los Angeles welcomes the world in 2028 at the legendary Riviera Country Club, whilst Brisbane showcases Australian golf heritage in 2032 at Royal Queensland Golf Club. Both tournaments promise unforgettable championship golf within the spectacle of the Olympic Games. Olympic Golf: A Modern Renaissance Golf's modern Olympic renaissance continues to gather momentum. After a 112-year absence from the Games, the sport returned in Rio 2016 and has since cemented its place on the Olympic programme. The Paris 2024 edition, won by Scottie Scheffler and Lydia Ko, attracted over 30,000 spectators daily and produced thrilling championship golf that silenced remaining doubters about the sport's Olympic credentials. The Olympic qualification system remains consistent across editions. The top 15 world-ranked players in both men's and women's categories earn automatic entry, subject to a maximum of four players per nation. Countries may field up to two additional players based on world rankings, ensuring global representation whilst maintaining elite competition standards. Each continent receives guaranteed representation, with 60 players in both men's and women's fields creating truly international tournaments. The 2028 Los Angeles Games mark a watershed moment for Olympic golf. For the first time, the competition will include a mixed team event alongside the individual tournaments, with 16 pairs competing in alternate shot and four-ball formats between the men's and women's individual competitions. This addition expands golf's medal count and creates compelling new storylines as nations unite their best male and female players. Olympic golf tournaments follow a straightforward 72-hole stroke play format over four days, with no cut after 36 holes. All 60 players complete the full four rounds, ensuring every competitor experiences championship golf throughout the week. Sudden-death playoffs determine medal positions if players finish tied after regulation play, adding dramatic potential to final-round competition. Recent Olympic champions have demonstrated that these gold medals carry genuine prestige. Justin Rose's 2016 victory, Xander Schauffele's 2020 triumph, and Scottie Scheffler's 2024 gold established the Olympics as meaningful achievements in professional golf. Lydia Ko's remarkable medal collection—silver in 2016, bronze in 2020, and gold in 2024—secured her LPGA Hall of Fame induction, highlighting the tournaments' significance within the sport's hierarchy. Los Angeles 2028: Riviera Country Club Quick Facts Dates: 14-27 July 2028 (Golf competitions typically first week) Venue: Riviera Country Club, Pacific Palisades, California Distance from LAX: 24 kilometres (15 miles), approximately 30 minutes Tournament Format: 72-hole stroke play (men's and women's individual) plus mixed team event Prize Prestige: Olympic gold medals plus exemptions into major championships Los Angeles will host the Summer Games for the third time in history, following successful editions in 1932 and 1984. The 2028 Games return championship golf to American soil for the first time since the sport's modern Olympic reintroduction. The Venue: Riviera Country Club Few courses embody American golf's golden age quite like Riviera Country Club. Founded in 1926 by the Los Angeles Athletic Club, the course emerged from the vision of architect George C Thomas Jr and construction supervisor William P Bell, who transformed Santa Monica Canyon into one of golf's architectural masterpieces. The project cost $243,827, an astronomical sum for its era, establishing Riviera as an immediate statement of ambition and quality. Thomas designed Riviera to challenge thinking golfers rather than simply overpower them. The routing flows naturally through barrancas and canyons, with kikuyu grass fairways and poa annua greens creating distinctive playing characteristics. The course measures approximately 7,040 yards from the championship tees at par 71, though its strategic demands extend far beyond mere distance. Thomas incorporated dramatic contours, elevated greens and optical illusions that continue to confound even the world's best players. Several holes at Riviera rank amongst golf's most celebrated. The par-three 6th features a bunker set directly into the green's surface, creating a unique challenge that has tormented generations of champions. The driveable par-four 10th tempts aggressive players to attack whilst punishing mistakes severely. The par-three 4th, a formidable Redan-style hole, plays significantly longer than its yardage suggests due to the prevailing wind and intimidating green complex. The closing hole's natural amphitheatre creates one of golf's most dramatic finishing stages, perfect for Olympic medal-deciding moments. Riviera's championship pedigree runs deep through American golf history. Ben Hogan won three Los Angeles Opens here and captured the 1948 U.S. Open at Riviera, leading to the course's nickname "Hogan's Alley." The venue hosted PGA Championships in 1983 and 1995, won by Hal Sutton and Steve Elkington respectively, and the 1998 U.S. Senior Open. More recently, Riviera hosted the 2017 U.S. Amateur and will welcome the U.S. Women's Open in 2026 before staging the U.S. Open again in 2031. Since 1973, Riviera has served as annual home to the PGA Tour's Los Angeles tournament, now known as the Genesis Invitational. Tiger Woods assumed hosting duties in 2005, adding prestige to an event that already boasted legendary winners including Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Fred Couples and Phil Mickelson. Recent champions like Hideki Matsuyama, Max Homa and Patrick Cantlay have demonstrated the course's enduring challenge for contemporary players. Interestingly, Riviera hosted portions of the equestrian and modern pentathlon competitions during the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, establishing an Olympic connection nearly a century before golf's return. The club's Hollywood proximity has attracted celebrity members throughout its history, including Humphrey Bogart, Dean Martin and Katherine Hepburn, adding glamorous mystique to its sporting excellence. Golf Around Los Angeles Southern California's golf scene ranks amongst the world's finest, with numerous championship venues within easy striking distance of Riviera. The region's Mediterranean climate permits year-round golf, whilst architectural diversity ensures varied experiences across different layouts. Championship Public Access Courses Rustic Canyon provides accessible excellence north of Los Angeles in Moorpark. Gil Hanse, Jim Wagner and Geoff Shackelford designed this minimalist gem through a seasonal stream bed in the foothills, creating strategic interest without artificial complications. Wide fairways encourage aggressive play, whilst subtle green contours reward thoughtful approaches. Weekend rates hover around £60 (€70/$80), representing exceptional value for championship-quality golf. Trump National Golf Club Los Angeles in Palos Verdes offers spectacular Pacific Ocean views from every hole. Pete Dye routed the course along dramatic cliffs, creating both stunning beauty and significant challenge. Public access comes at premium pricing, with weekend rates approaching £255 (€300/$350), though the views justify costs for those prioritising scenery alongside championship golf. Los Angeles Beyond Golf Los Angeles offers endless exploration opportunities beyond championship golf. The Getty Center in Brentwood, minutes from Riviera, showcases world-class art collections within Richard Meier's architectural masterpiece. The hilltop location provides spectacular city and ocean views, whilst admission remains free despite the exceptional quality. Griffith Observatory delivers iconic Los Angeles experiences with Hollywood Sign views, planetarium shows and free public telescopes. The Art Deco building crowns Griffith Park, creating memorable skyline perspectives particularly stunning at sunset. Santa Monica Pier and Beach provide classic California coastal experiences within 16 kilometres (10 miles) of Riviera. The historic pier features a solar-powered Ferris wheel, arcade games and seafood restaurants, whilst the beach stretches for miles in both directions. Venice Beach Boardwalk presents Los Angeles's eclectic character through street performers, muscle beach workouts and diverse humanity. Los Angeles's dining scene spans from celebrity-chef establishments to food trucks, with Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica and Beverly Hills offering concentrated restaurant options. The city's multicultural character ensures diverse cuisines at every price point, from casual taco stands to Michelin-starred temples of gastronomy. Planning Your LA 2028 Visit Accommodation Begin accommodation searches 18-24 months before the Games. Pacific Palisades offers almost no commercial hotels, pushing visitors toward Santa Monica, Brentwood or further afield. Consider Venice, Marina del Rey or Manhattan Beach as alternatives offering reasonable access whilst potentially providing better availability and value. Transportation Official Olympic shuttles will operate between major hotels and Riviera, providing reliable transport whilst avoiding parking headaches. Los Angeles traffic congestion worsens significantly during major events, making shuttles preferable to driving. Weather Los Angeles in July delivers reliably warm, dry conditions with daytime temperatures typically reaching 26-29°C (79-84°F) and cool mornings around 17-19°C (63-66°F). Rain remains extremely unlikely. Pack sun protection as absolute priority, including high-factor sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses. Bring comfortable walking shoes and light layers for early morning starts. Tickets Olympic golf tickets will be sold through LA28.org official channels. Registration typically opens 18-24 months before Games commence. Early rounds generally prove easier to access than weekend finals when medals are decided, with prices ranging from £30-40 (€35-45/$40-55) for practice rounds to £85-170 (€100-200/$115-230) for weekend finals. Brisbane 2032: Royal Queensland Golf Club Quick Facts Dates: 23 July - 8 August 2032 (Golf competitions throughout) Venue: Royal Queensland Golf Club, Eagle Farm, Brisbane Distance from Brisbane Airport: 10 kilometres (6 miles), approximately 15 minutes Tournament Format: 72-hole stroke play (men's and women's individual) plus mixed team event Prize Prestige: Olympic gold medals plus exemptions into major championships Australia hosts the Olympic Games for the third time, following Melbourne 1956 and Sydney 2000, though neither previous Games included golf. Brisbane 2032 will showcase Australian golf heritage to the world whilst providing world-class facilities for future generations. The Venue: Royal Queensland Golf Club Established in 1920 by prominent Brisbane citizens, Royal Queensland Golf Club represents Australian golf's distinguished heritage. The club originally occupied approximately 170 hectares fronting the Brisbane River at Parker Island, since reduced to around 97 hectares whilst maintaining its championship credentials. King George V granted the Royal Charter in 1921, cementing the club's status amongst Australia's golfing elite. Original Australian Open champion Carnegie Clark designed the inaugural layout, which Governor-General Lord Forster officially opened in 1921. The course gained international architectural significance when legendary designer Dr Alister MacKenzie visited in 1926, refining Clark's work with his characteristic strategic brilliance. MacKenzie's influence remains evident throughout the routing, particularly in the green complexes and strategic bunkering that reward thoughtful play. The championship layout measures approximately 6,300 metres from the back tees at par 72, though precise yardage matters less than the course's strategic sophistication. Fairways bordered by towering eucalyptus trees demand accuracy from the tee, whilst the greens' subtle contours require precise approach play. Water hazards come into play on multiple holes, adding both beauty and strategic complexity to the round. Former U.S. Open champion Geoff Ogilvy, who leads the company overseeing Olympic preparations, describes Royal Queensland as fundamentally sound with strategic interest throughout. The course avoids driver-everywhere monotony, instead presenting thoughtful options from every tee. According to Ogilvy, the layout will test the world's best without requiring dramatic alterations, suggesting MacKenzie's design remains relevant nearly a century after his consultation. Significant upgrades are underway ahead of the 2032 Olympics. The club is reclaiming long-unused land east of the Gateway bridges to create a new nine-hole layout, riverside pavilion and enhanced training facilities. The redevelopment will restore the original 14th hole, a challenging par three near the Tangalooma ferry that older members fondly remember. Construction commenced in 2024, with the new course opening by early 2026, followed by continued improvements through 2028. The club's Brisbane River setting provides stunning natural beauty that will showcase Southeast Queensland's landscape to global television audiences. The Olympic tournament will offer public audiences a rare opportunity to experience this exclusive championship venue, potentially inspiring increased interest in Australian golf. Brisbane & Queensland Beyond Golf Brisbane's South Bank Parklands transform former industrial waterfront into gardens, museums and entertainment venues. The Queensland Gallery of Modern Art ranks amongst Australia's premier contemporary art institutions, whilst the nearby Queensland Museum explores natural history and cultural heritage. Both institutions offer free general admission. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, established in 1927, remains the world's first and largest koala sanctuary. Visitors can cuddle koalas, hand-feed kangaroos and encounter platypuses and other Australian wildlife. Located 11 kilometres (7 miles) from Brisbane CBD, the sanctuary provides authentic Australian animal experiences. The Sunshine Coast, 100 kilometres (62 miles) north of Brisbane, offers pristine beaches, national parks and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Australia Zoo, founded by Steve Irwin's family, continues his conservation legacy through spectacular wildlife presentations. Gold Coast beaches stretch for 57 kilometres (35 miles) of golden sand and consistent surf breaks, with Burleigh Heads providing relaxed village atmosphere favoured by locals. Tamborine Mountain, 64 kilometres (40 miles) from Brisbane, offers rainforest walks, boutique wineries and spectacular hinterland views. The mountain provides cooler temperatures and lush scenery contrasting with coastal environments, whilst walking tracks reveal ancient Antarctic beech trees and dramatic waterfalls. Brisbane's culinary scene emphasises fresh Queensland produce, particularly seafood. Moreton Bay bugs, Queensland mud crabs and barramundi feature prominently on menus. Gauge and Agnes represent Brisbane's fine dining excellence, whilst riverside venues provide casual settings for post-round refreshments. Queensland's craft beer scene flourishes throughout Brisbane and the Gold Coast, with outdoor seating taking advantage of pleasant winter weather during Olympic weeks. Planning Your Brisbane 2032 Visit Accommodation Book 12 months ahead for properties near Royal Queensland in Hamilton or Ascot. South Bank and Brisbane CBD offer excellent hotel concentrations with good public transport access to Eagle Farm. Gold Coast properties provide abundant accommodation options roughly 80 kilometres (50 miles) from the venue, creating viable alternatives if Brisbane sells out completely. Transportation Royal Queensland sits approximately 15 minutes from Brisbane CBD via major roads, with public transport options including buses connecting to Eagle Farm. Official Olympic shuttles will simplify access during competition days. Brisbane's less congested roads make driving viable for those renting vehicles. Queensland's extensive motorway network facilitates exploration, with the Bruce Highway connecting northward to the Sunshine Coast and the Pacific Motorway linking southward to the Gold Coast. Weather Brisbane in late July experiences pleasant winter conditions with daytime temperatures around 21-22°C (70-72°F) and cool nights dropping to 10-12°C (50-54°F). Queensland's subtropical climate produces occasional winter rain, though July ranks amongst Brisbane's driest months. Pack versatile layers including light waterproof jacket, warm jumper for morning starts, and sun protection for midday conditions. Tickets Olympic golf tickets will be sold through Olympics.com Brisbane 2032 official channels. Registration and lottery systems will determine initial allocations for popular sessions, with pricing expected to range from £25-35 (€30-40/$35-45) for early rounds to £70-145 (€80-170/$95-195) for weekend finals. Frequently Asked Questions Can I play Riviera or Royal Queensland during Olympic weeks? Neither venue will be available for public play during Olympic competition periods. Both clubs will close weeks before tournaments commence, allowing organisers to prepare championship conditions. Neither course offers regular public access outside Olympic periods—both remain strictly private with no public tee times. Golf enthusiasts should explore the excellent public and resort options detailed in this guide for championship experiences during their Olympic visits. What's the best strategy for securing golf tee times? Book tee times immediately upon confirming Olympic travel plans. Championship courses near both venues will experience unprecedented demand during Games periods. For Los Angeles, courses like Rustic Canyon and Trump National require advance booking, whilst municipal courses like Rancho Park accept bookings closer to play dates. For Brisbane, resort courses including Palmer Coolum and Royal Pines welcome advance reservations, whilst booking 2-3 months ahead ensures optimal tee times during Olympic periods. How do Olympic golf tournaments differ from regular tour events? Olympic golf creates unique atmosphere where national pride supersedes individual achievement. The multi-sport festival environment generates energy rarely found at typical tournaments, with spectators from dozens of nations creating truly international ambience. The four-year Olympic cycle adds once-in-a-lifetime quality absent from annual events. Additionally, the no-cut format ensures all 60 players complete four rounds, whilst the new mixed team event debuts in 2028, adding compelling team competition alongside individual tournaments. Which destination offers better value for international visitors? Both destinations provide excellent value depending on priorities. Los Angeles offers world-famous attractions, beaches and entertainment alongside Olympic golf, though accommodation and dining costs run higher than Brisbane. Queensland delivers more affordable accommodation, exceptional value golf courses, and unique Australian wildlife experiences. Brisbane's compact geography simplifies logistics compared to sprawling Los Angeles, whilst both destinations ensure unforgettable Olympic experiences with world-class golf at historic championship venues. Why These Experiences Matter Olympic golf represents where sporting excellence meets global celebration, creating experiences transcending typical tournament attendance. Witnessing the world's best golfers compete for national glory rather than prize money adds emotional depth rarely present in professional golf. The gold medal's significance becomes palpable through celebrations and disappointments playing out across championship layouts. Both venues deliver architectural significance beyond their Olympic hosting. Riviera's George C Thomas design influenced generations of American golf architecture, whilst Royal Queensland's Alister MacKenzie consultation connects to golf's golden age. Walking these historic grounds during Olympic competition creates memories intertwining sporting achievement with architectural appreciation. The host cities offer complementary attractions ensuring full holiday experiences around tournament attendance. Los Angeles provides world-famous beaches, entertainment and cultural institutions requiring weeks to properly explore. Brisbane's subtropical beauty, friendly character and proximity to spectacular Queensland destinations create equally compelling reasons for extended visits. Olympic golf's rarity makes these opportunities precious. Four-year cycles mean limited chances to witness this unique competition, whilst the 2028 and 2032 tournaments represent specific moments in golf's Olympic evolution. Start planning now, book early, and prepare for golf experiences unlike any other on the sporting calendar. Golf & The Olympics - An Ongoing Controversy Of interest, the International Golf Federation is the governing body for the sport at the Olympics rather than the R&A or USGA. The IGF exists to run the Olympics, the Eisenhower Trophy and Espirito Santo Trophy (biennial world team championships for amateur men and women, respectively). The IGF use the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) to determine eligibility, and with the ongoing LIV vs PGA Tour saga, it is only adding fuel to the fire. Qualification is based on the Official World Golf Rankings for men and the Women's World Golf Rankings for ladies. Because of the current rift in professional golf, many will cry foul, with the majority of LIV golfers not qualifying due to not being awarded OWGR points. Some would suggest the issue isn't the points system but rather the depth of the American side. The Top 15 on the OWGR are eligible, with a maximum of four from a single country. The rest consist of the two top-ranked players from each country. A total of 60 will compete for gold. Modern History of Olympic Golf Golf at the Olympics has a sordid past. Some of the most incredible stories and historically significant events of the modern Olympiad are linked to golf… Summer Olympics 1900 Paris Golf debuted at the Paris Olympics in 1900. The Compeigne Golf Club served as the host. The golf course was north of Paris on a golf course designed by M.W. Freemantle inside a horse racing track reminiscent of Musselburgh Old. One of 25 golf courses in France at the time, it was described as flat with thick rough and tiny greens. 36 holes on a single day decided the men's victor and 9 holes the following day decided the victor of the women. Done without much fanfare, Margaret Abbott, the women's golf medalist never knew she was competing in the Olympics. Incredible that she was the first woman to ever win an Olympic medal and she never knew! France, Great Britain, United States, and Greece all entered competitors with the USA taking home 4 of the 6 medals and Great Britain taking home the remaining two. Other associated events were also held, for example, putting; but these were not considered Olympic Events. Summer Olympics 1904 St Louis The 1904 Olympics were held in St Louis, MO, USA. Two rounds of stroke play whittled down the field of 3 Canadians and 72 Americans to just 32. The matchplay component was a 36-hole match, which reduced the field from 32 to just 2 in five rounds. Between September 19 and 24, 1904, the eventual winner would have potentially played 216 holes if all matches went the distance… 36 holes a day for 5 days. In the end, George Lyon from Ontario, Canada, a 46-year-old who picked up the game just 8 years earlier, took home the gold medal. He would end up winning the Canadian Amateur 8 times. There was also a team event. 6 teams entered, 2 showed up on the day and 1 was formed at the last minute - a team representing the USGA. The three 10-man teams competed with the Western Golf Association, defeating the Trans-Mississippi Golf Association, which allowed the USGA squad to take home a guaranteed bronze. Summer Olympics 1908 London George Lyon would travel to London in 1908 to defend the gold medal, and was awarded it by default as the event was cancelled at the last minute. He refused to accept the medal after the organisers and the R&A couldn't agree on the format and the event was called off. The British and Americans were either disqualified or withdrawn, and the lone man standing was George Lyon. In perhaps the greatest display of sportsmanship, he refused the medal as sport was a gentlemanly affair, through which an award should only be accepted 'through proper competition.' The trifecta of golf courses planned to be used were: Princes Golf Club, Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club and Royal St George's Golf Club. Sandwich was to hold the first 36-hole matches, followed by Princes and culminating at Deal. Summer Olympics 1920 Antwerp Golf at the Olympics was again mired in controversy, with the event being cancelled due to a lack of entries. Although no golf was played, Cappelan's Golf Club was the venue. Golf at the Olympics had run its course. After 4 attempts, two of the games were not even contested, and the others were shambles. Golf at the Olympics would have to wait for over a century to be seen again. Summer Olympics Rio 2016 Golf made its triumphant return to the Olympics in 2016 in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Justin Rose would take the gold, Henrik Stenson and Matt Kuchar the bronze for the men. Inbee Park, Lydia Ko and Shashan Feng would be the champions in the women's event. Summer Olympics Tokyo 2020 A somewhat subdued COVID-19 pandemic-tainted games, they were contested in 2021 without spectators behind closed doors on the East Course at the Kasumigaseki Country Club in Japan. Xander Schauffele, Rory Sabbatini and CT Pan took gold, silver and bronze in the individual men's stroke play with Nelly Korda, Mone Inami and Lyda Ko taking home the medals in the women's individual stroke play. Summer Olympics Paris 2024 Golf's Olympic renaissance reached new heights at Le Golf National outside Paris, where massive galleries and world-class competition silenced any remaining doubts about the sport's Olympic credentials. Scottie Scheffler produced a breathtaking final-round 62 to surge from four shots behind and claim gold at 19-under par, with Great Britain's Tommy Fleetwood earning silver and Japan's Hideki Matsuyama securing bronze. The women's competition crowned Lydia Ko's remarkable Olympic career, as she completed her medal collection with gold after winning silver in Rio 2016 and bronze in Tokyo 2020, securing the final points needed for LPGA Hall of Fame induction whilst defeating Switzerland's Morgane Metraux.
10 Interesting facts about Shadow Creek Golf Course Shadow Creek North Golf Course is a marvel in the desert of North Las Vegas, Nevada, offering an unparalleled golfing experience that combines luxury, exclusivity, and remarkable design. Here are ten interesting facts about this prestigious course: Designed by Tom Fazio: The course was designed by renowned architect Tom Fazio in 1989 and is known for its meticulous design and stunning aesthetics. Exclusive and Expensive: Initially, until 2000, the only way to play at Shadow Creek was to receive an invitation from Steve Wynn, the hotelier behind its creation. Now managed by MGM Resorts International, it maintains its exclusivity with a hefty green fee of $500 A Transformative Design: Located in North Las Vegas, Fazio transformed a flat and lifeless desert into a lush, rolling landscape filled with thousands of trees, creeks, lakes, and bursts of flowers, creating a setting that feels more like a Georgian oasis than a Nevada desert. Limousine Access Only: The only way to access Shadow Creek is through an MGM Resorts International courtesy limo, adding to its aura of exclusivity and luxury Renovation and Records: A renovation in 2008, also by Tom Fazio, stretched the par-72 layout to 7,560 yards without materially altering any of the holes. Tiger Woods and Fred Couples share the old course record of 60, while Dustin Johnson holds the record on the newer layout with a score of 66 A Selective Guest List: Shadow Creek's guest list includes U.S. Presidents, celebrities, and sports stars, with names like George H.W. Bush, Wayne Gretzky, Matt Damon, Sylvester Stallone, and Michael Jordan among those who have enjoyed rounds here A Venue for Major Events: The course has hosted significant golfing events, including "The Match: Tiger vs. Phil" in 2018 and the PGA Tour's CJ Cup in 2020, moved from South Korea due to the COVID-19 pandemic A Desert Oasis: Despite its desert location, the course features a bevy of lakes, creeks, waterfalls, and is so well-manicured and lush that it feels like a different world altogether Highly Ranked and Praised: Shadow Creek is consistently ranked among the top golf courses globally, praised for its beauty, design, and exclusivity. It is considered a bucket-list experience for many golf enthusiasts Features and Facilities: The course is equipped with a 7-acre short game facility added during the 2008 redesign, showcasing Fazio's commitment to providing a comprehensive and elite golfing experience. Shadow Creek continues to be a symbol of luxury and exclusivity in the golf world, offering a unique and unforgettable experience to those who have the privilege to play its grounds. Find out more about travel to Shadow Creek Golf Course Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive US Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips
