Billy Casper Golf to manage Nicklaus design in Hawaii

Billy Casper Golf has been selected to manage Kauai Lagoons Golf Club, home to the longest continuous stretch of oceanfront golf in Hawaii and the island’s only Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf course.

At Kauai Lagoons, BCG will direct course maintenance, staffing and training, clubhouse activities, merchandising, golf instruction, marketing and public relations, special events and financial management. Existing employees have been retained by BCG, and the operation will greatly benefit from their immense knowledge of the property and relationships within the community.

Kauai Lagoons is famous for its 219-yard, par 3 fifth hole on the Kiele Mauka course that Nicklaus calls “one of the best holes anywhere.” A challenging tee shot over a mango and guava tree forest leads to a green closely encircled by bunkers and dense, tropical foliage.

“Golfers relish Kauai Lagoons for its strong course design, tranquility and panoramic ocean views,” said Peter Hill, Chairman and CEO of BCG, which has managed several courses in Hawaii for more than 15 years. “Billy Casper Golf will inject new programming and special events to add excitement to guest experiences.”

All three nine-hole layouts are distinct:

--Kiele Mauka – At 3,655 yards and par 37, golfers use their drivers on three par 5s in the first six holes as they meander through lush jungles with dramatic, mountainous views. In addition to Nicklaus’ rave of the fifth hole, the par 3 eighth features a small green tightly guarded by water on the right and menacing bunker to the left.

--Kiele Moana – At 3,501 yards and par 35, it was extensively renovated by Nicklaus in 2011 and boasts more than a half-mile of unobstructed ocean views. The signature, 331-yard, par-4 seventh hole is set along the Pacific Ocean with a sloping fairway, rugged cliffs and one of Hawaii’s only peninsula greens. The 459-yard, par 4 finishing hole presents howling trade winds, considerable water and jungle hazards, earning a reputation as Hawaii’s hardest hole.

--Waikahe – At 3,423 yards and par 36, it is entertaining for golfers of all skill levels. Wide fairways, minimal forced carries and well-guarded greens provide bite and benevolence for juniors, families, groups and low handicappers alike.