PGA NATIONAL IMPROVEMENTS ENHANCE HONDA CLASSIC
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL – A multi-million dollar renovation at PGA National Resort & Spa, which includes changes to five holes on the Champion course that plays host to The Honda Classic, will significantly enhance the presentation of the PGA TOUR event beginning in 2008.
Chicago-based Walton Street Capital, LLC has committed to a major makeover of the resort which is resulting in a new lobby and pool deck and a new Member’s Club, the area of the property which hosts the PGA TOUR pros when they come to town for The Honda Classic.
“We’re taking a `Classic’ and making it current,” said PGA National VP of Sales and Marketing James Gelfand. “We have a new tournament and we feel we are launching a new resort, in form and philosophy. It’s an exciting time.”
The Champion course is already established as the third toughest course on the PGA TOUR after its Honda debut in 2007. The latest improvements to the course are involving new, reshaped or expanded bunkers on five holes and new landscaping.
The right side of the fairway is being expanded on the first landing area of the third hole. Two new fairway bunkers have been added at No. 10 and a pot bunker has been relocated. The right fairway bunker at No. 12 has been reshaped along with the left fairway bunkers on No. 13 and No. 14. All of the changes are being overseen by Jack Nicklaus and his design group.
“Our owners are committed to renewing PGA National’s position as the most prestigious golf resort in the country,” PGA National Managing Director Joel Paige said. “We are thrilled to be the home of The Honda Classic and promise that the 2008 tournament will be more dynamic than last year – maybe a little more challenging too.”
The interior renovations begin with a re-designed front entrance for the resort, a completely-renovated lobby with a new bar, a new restaurant and a Starbucks Coffee Café. Through the lobby’s floor to ceiling windows, guests will see a completely re-designed free-form pool with lush landscaping, water features and cabanas. A 5,000 square-foot outdoor pool pavilion with a panoramic view of the 26-acre lake which borders the 18th hole of The Champion also is being built.
“The hotel renovations will only enhance the experience of participating in The Honda Classic for the players and guests of American Honda,” Honda Classic Executive Director Kenneth R. Kennerly said. “And one of the best golf courses on the TOUR was just made even better. We continue to be excited about our relationship with PGA National and its new ownership group.”