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Southern Dunes named 7th in state
Shelley Gillespie
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Golfweek Magazine has named Southern Dunes Golf Course in Maricopa the number seven golf course in Arizona on their “Golfweek’s Best” state by state listing for 2009. This represents an especially savored accomplishment by the local course because, according to Brad Hodges, Director of Sales, “The course went from the footsteps of the courthouse, in foreclosure, to receiving this honor five months later. It’s unheard of!”
As one of the prime golf magazines, Golfweek’s honor places Southern Dunes in the ranks of some very choice, nationally known courses, such as Troon North (where Tiger Woods has played) and TPC (where the FBR Open is held). Hodges claims those courses charge $200 and more in season to play. By contrast, Maricopa residents can play at Southern Dunes for $49 (after 2:00 P.M.) to $79 (on weekends). Rates are higher for non-Maricopa players.
The rankings mean they have been rated ahead of some famous courses such as Boulders, Grayhawk (site of the PGA tour), La Paloma, Wigwam Resort, and Whirlwind. Next to the listing for Southern Dunes, there is an asterisk indicating that it is new, a high ranking for a course new to the list.
Criteria for the rankings are based on reviews conducted by more than 10 people periodically during the year, not a one-time visit. Score results are based on “integrity of original design” of the course, natural setting and overall land plan, green and chipping contours, a variety of memorable 3,4, and 5 pars, landscape and tree management, and how “walkable” it is to play. Hodges calls this last factor the “walk in the park.”
What is even more impressive than the ranking is that Southern Dunes went from losing money and foreclosure to a new business model that is, for the first time since the course opened in 2002, making money. Troon, an internationally recognized golf management company, took over management of Southern Dunes in March 2008. One change that has resulted is transitioning the course from a private, male-exclusive course to a semi-private course open to everyone. Members still get choice tee-time reservations, but the public can book five days in advance.
Things are picking up at Southern Dunes. The Cactus Tour, a women’s professional golf tour that includes several highly ranked players, played in March and has another event planned for August 2009. The Southern Dunes Golf Classic to benefit the Ray Morrow Foundation (committed to assisting Maricopa causes) is scheduled for May 15, 2009,with several PGA players participating. (Contact Courtny Tyler to register at (602) 448-1669). Other events are on the schedule and Hodges is taking bookings into 2010.
Currently, the Southern Dunes membership base is approximately 65, but Hodges hopes to grow the membership to 100-150. With “outstanding customer service, outstanding course conditions, and a great value,” he is relying on those values and this new honor to attract more members and players.
For Maricopa players, April is the time when availability for play opens up. Hodges says that they will match up foursomes if individuals want to play. Even if the course is full, Hodges promises “to find a spot” for a player.
Hodges says, “Pat yourself on the back Maricopa…Come out and play. You’ve got the number seven course in the state.”
Southern Dunes has 20 staffers for the course and golf shop as well as several for their Grill. The Grill serves from 7:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. daily and is open to the public.
Location: On SR 238, west 2½ miles from the Smith-Enke/John Wayne Parkway intersection. Just past mile marker 42, turn right at the turn arrow and follow the drive to the clubhouse. Questions: Phone Brad Hodges at (520) 568-2000.
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