New course opens at Saint John’s Resort in Detroit The Cardinal, a new course designed by Raymond Hearn, will open this spring at Saint John’s Resort in the Plymouth suburb of Detroit, Michigan. The multimillion-dollar project was commissioned by the Pulte Family Foundation, which acquired the resort in 2021. The course was built on the site of the resort’s previous 27 holes. Almost nothing remains of the original holes other than some playing corridors that were altered. Hearn also designed a seven-hole par-three layout and a twoacre Himalayas-style putting course. “Saint John’s landscape is incredible,” said Hearn. “It has a variety of natural features such as prairie, woodlands, ridges, valleys and water. Add to those a collection of 100-year-old trees and you have a special setting.” Hearn highlights the par-five fifth as one of the standout holes. “At 535 yards from the back tees, it is relatively short by today’s standards, but is an interesting journey,” said Hearn. The tee shot requires a carry over a pond, with the more forward tees cutting off the distance to the fairway. A creek, wetlands and a large tree pinch the fairway at the landing zone, challenging longer hitters. “Better players may go for it in two, using the back-left bunker as a target,” said Hearn. “That, however, brings into play a second pond, wetlands and slopes around the green. The reward is a chance at eagle but bogey or worse is a possibility if you unsuccessfully negotiate the natural hazards.” Hearn has also included a church pew bunker complex on the ninth hole (pictured), which plays alongside the resort (its chapel is located inside). Bunkers on the course feature ProAngle sand and liner from Better Billy Bunker. Photo: Brian Walters 27
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzQ1NTk=