TPC Scottsdale


One of the most recognizable layouts in golf, TPC Scottsdale is familiar to virtually any golfer with a baseline knowledge of the game. The complex now includes two 18-hole courses: the Tom Weiskopf / Jay Morrish-designed Stadium course (completed 1986) and the Randy Heckenkemper-designed Champions course (replaced the previous Weiskopf / Morrish Desert course in 2007)1. Although both courses provide championship-level play, golfers undeniably associate the Stadium course with its associated annual PGA Tour event- The Waste Management Phoenix Open. Although title sponsors have changed since its inception, the tournament has been staged at the Stadium course since its opening 34 years ago. Consistent with the mission of TPC courses, the Stadium layout provides ample room for crowds on a high-profile layout2. The back 9 specifically reflects this mission, set in a large ravine with gentle mounds surrounding each hole to accommodate spectators.

Golfers traveling to the Phoenix area will likely consider adding TPC Scottsdale to their itinerary. Just a short drive from Sky Harbor Airport, the complex provides an elite golfing experience. Cost is a factor, with primetime 18-hole rates often exceeding $300 per player. A trip to the course also inherently will include merchandise from the pro shop, an extra consideration for budgeting. The clubhouse contains a well-appointed restaurant, changing facilities, and sweeping views of the course and practice-range. Complimentary use of the practice-range is provided, which offers a driving range, short game area, and putting green all in pristine condition. 

 

The clubhouse (above) and practice range (below) provide ample preparation for a round.

The front 9 sits slightly elevated to the back 9, and navigates through a surrounding neighborhood. Water is hardly a factor on the front; only hole 6 contains a small pond. One of the most challenging aspects of the course is its topography. Although hard to appreciate on television, the greens are sloped and often with significant changes in height. Putts must be hit with perfect speed or balls easily roll off an entire green. Approach shots not only should hit the green; they must hit the right part of the green. These short game challenges also represent one of the most enjoyable aspects of TPC Scottsdale- its immaculate upkeep. From tee to green, the entire course is well-manicured. Consistent lies can be expected, allowing a player to appropriately plan and execute shots. 

 

The opening 9 works through a surrounding neighborhood.


Making the turn, players will notice a slightly different feel to the Stadium course. With multiple ponds and sloping ravines, the back 9 is distinct from the front 9. These ponds and ravines provide the backdrop for the finishing holes which are the focus of most television cameras during the Waste Management Phoenix Open. Beginning with hole 11, golfers immediately encounter water hazards. Because of the immaculate condition of the Stadium course’s fairways, errant tee balls may hit the fairway but roll into the hazard. Hole 12 presents a similar challenge; approach shots to this par 3 may hit the green, but come to rest in the water hazard immediately behind the green. 

 

The par 3 12th

 

By the time golfers reach hole 15, they immediately appreciate one of the most famous 3 hole stretches in professional golf. Beginning with the par 5 15th, and its island green, players are immersed in playing holes viewed by millions on television every year. The skill necessary to navigate these holes becomes evident when playing them in person. Wide-angle lenses commonly used for television coverage provide an expansive view of fairways and greens. In person, this expansive nature is far from reality. Fairways are tight. Greens are small and heavily fortified by water and bunkers. For some players, this reality can be a humbling experience.

 

The 15th tee box, beginning one of the most famous stretches of holes in golf.


The par 3 16th is the most-recognizable hole during tournament play. Surrounded by stands, tour players must enter through a tunnel into the “stadium” and execute shots among thousands of energetic fans. Golf, normally a serene endeavor, is an entirely different experience within the confines of the 16th hole grandstands. Playing the hole outside of the tournament, players can still appreciate the remnants of the stands in the grass surrounding the green. Although short in distance, the 16th is appropriately challenging with a sloping green and greenside bunkers. 

 

Even without grandstands, the par 3 16th provides an appropriate challenge with a fortified green.

The par 4 17th offers players another opportunity to navigate a hole played by tour professionals on live television every year. Reachable from the tee, the green gently slopes downward towards a pond on the far side. A well-executed tee shot with either a driver or fairway metal will leave players either an eagle putt, or a legitimate up-and-down opportunity for birdie.

 

The Stadium course at TPC Scottsdale offers a total golf experience. Like other TPC venues, it provides golfers an opportunity to play a high-profile layout frequented by tour professionals. Although the cost represents a significant consideration for travelers planning a trip to Phoenix, no other course in the area offers a similar experience.

 

 

 

Cost: $$$$

Conditions: 5

Playability: 3

Prestige: 5

Overall: 4.33

 

References:

1. TPC Scottsdale. Retrieved May 11, 2021 from https://tpc.com/scottsdale/

2. TPC Network. Retrieved May 11, 2021 from https://tpc.com/

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Admirals Club - PHL Terminal F

Image
Philadelphia, which served as the primary European gateway for legacy US Airways, is solidifying its role as a major transatlantic hub for American Airlines. Although pre-merger American routed European traffic through JFK, the post-merger strategy clearly utilizes PHL as the carrier's major European gateway. With new routes and new planes (Boeing 787), PHL will certainly play a major role in American's growing international route network. Travelers originating or transiting through PHL benefit from a choice between 4 Admirals Clubs. Although the airport may have garnered a poor reputation in the past, due to it's Eastern seaboard location with associated weather delays and the relatively constrained aspect of the airport's geography (located along the Delaware), the terminal facilities are modernized and clean. Regardless of the conditions outside the terminal, travelers inside PHL's concourses can comfortably shop, dine, and recharge at a variety of location...
Read more

Walker Course at Clemson University

Image
Located in upstate South Carolina, Clemson University's Walker Course represents a worthwhile diversion for golfers passing through the region. Clemson's campus is close to an hour drive from Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), and easily accessible by car. Designed by DJ DeVictor, the course is home to the Clemson Men's and Women's golf teams. As one might expect, the practice facilities are expansive and well-maintained. The short-game area features multiple greens and bunkers. The driving range provides ample space for student athletes and visitors. The clubhouse is clean and functional, providing a full service dining area and a pro shop stocked with Clemson Golf gear. Perhaps the most notable aspect of the Walker Course beyond the actual golf course is the pro shop staff. Courteous, professional, and flexible, the staff ensure patrons experience the Walker Course without hassle. A large conference center sits adjacent to the course, which offe...
Read more