2001 British golf star Nick Faldo has been hired to design the new 18-hole championship golf course at Marriott's Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in north Phoenix. The course will complement the Wildfire Course, designed by Arnold Palmer , and is scheduled to open in November 2002. Desert Ridge will be a premier golfing facility, with top-quality service and amenities. Calif. Faldo, who has 40 worldwide victories, including three Masters and three British Open titles, said during his visit to the site last week that he plans to play about three more years and then turn his attention to course design. The course will offer a slight departure from typical Sonoran Desert-theme courses, with a bunkering style reminiscent of the Australian sandbelt course.
Plans call for generous fairways and large, undulating, bentgrass greens.
Most of all, my hope is that everyone who plays the course will be enchanted and thrilled by a unique golfing experience. Scottsdale pro Phil Mickelson has increased his commitment through his foundation and again will serve as honorary chairman. The Thunderbirds civic organization is title sponsor of the event that features Polo Golf Junior All-Americans and select international players from more than 15 foreign countries. One of the things I always wanted to do is afford young golfers the opportunity to reach for their dreams and attain their goals. Chip shots Apache Creek in Apache Junction will hold one of 12 regional qualifiers May 19 for the World Junior Golf Cup.