The Short Course will debut along with the highly anticipated Mountain Shadows on February 14, 2017, as the resort’s scenic golf course. Set in the shadow of Camelback Mountain, the course is in serene Paradise Valley, adjacent to Scottsdale. The course is aptly named, as it will feature 18 diverse par-3 holes, along with a bonus wager hole. It offers a variety of play options suited for families, corporate outings, novice players and serious golfers alike.
Renowned golf course architect Forrest Richardson, ASGCA, principal of Forrest Richardson & Associates, breathed new life into The Short Course with a complete redesign. Formerly known as Mountain Shadows Golf Club, it was originally designed by well-known golf course architect Arthur Jack Snyder, under whom Richardson studied. Earlier this month, The Short Course was honored by the fifth annual American Society of Golf Course Architects Design Excellence Recognition Program.
Richardson’s design is grounded in his belief that golf should be fun, his goal being not only revitalize the course, but also to set a new bar for the par-3 golf experience. The Short Course at Mountain Shadows is among only a handful of 18-hole, high-end, par-3 golf courses in the world that are open to the public.
“Fun golf is defined by presenting puzzles that beckon the player back for more. At Mountain Shadows we have created just that — a series of riddles that are demanding, but all the while enjoyable,” said Richardson.
Hallmarks of the course are the exceptional greens surfaces and distinct holes, each with stunning mountain views. These, combined with the intense flexibility of tees, create an unparalleled experience. Holes play from 60 to 200 yards. The golfer will not only get to use an array of clubs, but will be able to complete 18 holes in just a few hours. The abbreviated playing time will provide a respite to golfers in the Arizona summers and allow guests to get a round in before a day of resort relaxation or desert exploration.
The story of the course is also one of environmental transition. The trend of the past was to create longer golf courses; however, this goes against land conservation and responsible water use, of particular importance in the desert. Turf area has been reduced by more than 50 percent, and the resulting water conservation means an even more sustainable golf course than the original.
“Our work here is not solely to re-create, but to look deep into the original design. At every turn we brought to the surface the attributes which were so amazingly innovative in the early 1960s — but we have done so in a language which fits the new Mountain Shadows resort. Our goal was to find the same beauty, harmony, function and innovation as Jack Snyder created more than 50 years ago,” said Richardson.
Tom McCahan, director of golf and club operations, brings decades of experience in golf management. He worked at The Boulders in Carefree, Arizona for 25 years, most recently as the director of golf and club operations. Tom’s long history in the Valley and expertise will ensure an exceptional golf experience at Mountain Shadows.
Complementing the new golf course will be Rusty’s, a patio and lounge featuring grille fare, drinks, and outdoor seating with mountain views. The name pays homage to Rusty Lyon, father of Westroc Hospitality CEO Scott Lyon. The Short Course will also feature a large putting green, golf carts and some of the best views in the Valley.
