Californian architect Todd Eckenrode has opened a new oceanside course in Rancho Palos Verdes near Los Angeles.

But this course is not the normal resort track – it’s a par three facility designed to appeal to the widest possible range of golfers.

“We designed the course to be nine challenging par threes from the back tees, as challenging as any you’d see on a full-length golf course,” said Eckenrode. “But then we built a number of tees that stagger with easier angles into the greens. The most-forward tees, for juniors or beginners, play only 60-100 yards. and we rolled the fairway right into the tee, so they can literally top it or roll it onto the green. I’ve actually witnessed kids pull this off, and it puts a smile on my face!”

Eckenrode, the designer of the acclaimed Barona Creek course near San Diego, told GCA he thought this kind of facility was what the golf industry needs at the moment. “It’s been a blast to see people playing – lots of kids, families, older folks and groups, from beginners to good players,” he said. “We see as many new players who want to come play a short course and enjoy the site right on the coastline, as we do the local pros out trying to set the course record. Which isn’t easy by the way!”