Architect: Gil Hanse, Jim Wagner & Dirk Ziff
Opened: April 17, 2023
When it comes to official grand opening ceremonies it would be hard to beat having 15-time major champion Tiger Woods on hand for the honors.
The Park West Palm officially opened nearly a year ago and the resurrection of the 1947 Dick Wilson design into a sparkling new addition to the Palm Beaches golf scene is nothing short of an amazing comeback story.
The former West Palm Beach Country Club – just two miles south of West Palm Beach International Airport -- was a top tier facility owned by the community. Unfortunately, that layout closed in 2018 because of deteriorating conditions.
Credit Seth Waugh, CEO for the PGA of America, for realizing the potential by creating a public / private partnership and raising approximately $56 million from 130 donors – including Woods himself.
Waugh reached out to architect Gil Hanse for his involvement and the acclaimed architect donated his design fee for the effort. Hanse, in concert with Jim Wagner and Dirk Ziff, opted to provide a "sand belt" look reminiscent of the world-renowned courses located in and around Melbourne, Australia.
The 190-acre property provides for an array of bunkers with various shapes dotting the landscape.
The 12th is one of the strongest two-shot holes at The Park. The 474-yard par-4 plays back into the prevailing wind and includes a slight rise of terrain in the drive zone.
Golfer have to determine how bold a play to consider when arriving at the tee box. Those opting for total safety can aim right and avoid the cluster of bunkers but the approach shot will only increase in length.
Those taking a bolder line-of-attack can gain an ample reward provided the aforementioned fairway bunkers are avoided.
One of the fascinating aspects of the 12th is the engaging green complex. The putting surface is a punchbowl design. When the pin is placed on the far-left side an elevated mound is quick to introduce itself for those approaches lacking the wherewithal to carry onto the green. Those missing to the right of the green will face a daunting challenge in escaping with a par.
The 12th also contains an array of vexing subtle movements. Being able to marry the proper club selection plays a crucial role in determining one's success or failure.
Amazingly, The Park resurrected a meaningful golf connection. In sum - a previous lemon turned into thirst quenching lemonade.
To borrow a baseball phrase – a solid swing that's been hit out of The Park.
A true home run result.
***
For more info go to:
The Park | Golf Course for All Ages and Skill Levels in West Palm Beach, FL
