21 TEE BOX Landscapes Unlimited is preparing to begin construction of a new golf course by Craig & Coyne, the design firm of Colton Craig and Tom Coyne, in Ideal, South Dakota. The Lazy J Sporting Club will be a private destination club with a 7,216yard layout that is expected to open in summer 2027. Landscapes Unlimited is managing planning, development and construction, and Landscapes Golf Management is overseeing pre-opening activities, including membership campaigns and financial management. The Jorgensen family, which owns and operates the existing Grand Lodge, has deep roots in the area, tracing back to 1909 when Martin Jorgensen Sr established a farm on the land. “The Jorgensen family owns 20,000 acres of land,” said Craig. “Their only request was that we approach the design with the utmost respect for the property’s natural beauty and its cultural significance. There were no constraints on layout or style – only a desire to honour the land. “This property is truly unparalleled – it’s without a doubt the most extraordinary land we’ve had the privilege of working on. A dynamic waterway, Thunder Creek, runs through the site, and the way the golf course interacts with this natural feature will offer golfers a thrilling and visually captivating experience. We refer to the terrain as being in the ‘Goldilocks zone’ – not too dramatic, but just dramatic enough. The land is naturally conducive to walkable golf, and we anticipate minimal earthwork will be required, allowing us to preserve its natural charm and features. Our goal is to create a course that feels like it’s always belonged there, utilising the land’s inherent beauty and challenges.” The design duo is planning subtle greens, naturalised bunkers and short connections between greens and tees. “The front nine follows a linear out-and-back layout, while the back nine is more axial, with a central ridge acting as the hub for many of the greens and tees – much like the centre of a wagon wheel,” said Craig. “We believe the third hole could become one of the best bunkerless holes in the world. The land is begging to become a golf hole.” Plans for Lazy J also include the creation of a short-game practice area and a 12-hole short course. The existing 42-bed lodge, including a lounge and restaurant, will also undergo interior and exterior renovation. Landscapes Unlimited poised to break ground at Lazy J in 2025 Photo: Vaughn Halyard
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