79 new hole corridors have been created in the redesign, but it is, to all intents and purposes, a new course. “The beauty of it is that we were able to utilise more of the valley where the creek runs through the site, with a network of lakes,” says Swanson. “It’s a gorgeous setting, with striking areas of rolling terrain that offer dramatic views.” Holes at the new Monster shift in direction and there are significant changes in elevation. “Already, people have talked about the variety,” says Jones. “There’s no repetitive hole. Every hole has its own distinct characteristics. We were given a wonderful piece of property to create the new course.” A key goal was to deliver a course that could be enjoyed by all. It would remain the Monster, but should be more playable than the name suggests. “We made it more flexible, with more shot options and bailout areas,” says Jones. “You can avoid the trouble. The era of the very difficult golf course with only forced carries, whether it be over sand, fescue or water, has passed. Architects are still building championship-worthy golf courses, but by the same token we give the average golfer an alternate shot.” This approach is typified on the twelfth, which plays alongside the Kiamesha Creek that runs through the centre of the property. Previously, the hole was a challenging par-five. “After the drive you had to carry water to a tiny little landing area, then again to the green,” says Jones. “This was a do-or-die The par-three fourteenth hole on the new Monster lies between the Kiamesha Creek and one of the site’s lakes Photo: Resorts World
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