Courtesy of Indian Wells Golf Resort
Indian Wells Golf Resort – the golf, vacation, culinary and events destination in California’s Coachella Valley – has announced the groundbreaking of the renovation of its Players Course on March 5.
Led by golf course architect John Fought and his team, the renovation will see multiple holes rerouted – most notably the ninth, 17th and 18th holes. Currently a par-72, the Players Course will transform to a par of 71 and will feature two new finishing holes. The par-3 No. 17 and par-4 No. 18 holes are currently the only two holes on the south side of the Whitewater Wash running through the property. The project will see both moving across the waterway to join the bulk of the golf course on the north side.
Additionally, the par-5 ninth hole will be shifted closer to the clubhouse to improve access to food and beverage amenities at the turn. The project will also feature a “refresh” of the bunkers, tee boxes and greens on each hole
“We are excited that one of the country’s best public golf courses is about to become even better,” general manager Robin Graf said. “It’s been a pleasure working with Fought and his team to realize the incredible possibilities for this project, and we can’t wait to welcome our residents and guests from around the world to experience the new design later this year.”
Originally redesigned by Fought in 2007, the structural changes planned for the Players Course will enhance the playability of the course while also preparing the layout for its future role as host of elite professional golf championships.
“We are looking forward to enhancing one of the great municipal golf courses in the U.S.,” Fought said. “The Players Course will become a true championship layout that will test the best players in the game as well as provide a wonderful experience for golfers of all skill levels.”
Indian Wells Golf Resort is set to host the 2025 Epson Tour Championship from Oct. 3 – 6 as their top players compete for status on the LPGA Tour at the finale of the season-long “Race for the Card.” The championship will take place on the Players Course with hopes of hosting future championships once the renovation project is completed in 2025.