Scottsdale, Arizona, United States: The Desert Highlands has reopened its course after a US$7 million renovation project, including the rebuilding of all the course’s bunkers to incorporate the Capillary Concrete liner technology.

The project, which began last April, also included restoring the 13th hole to its original design, installing a new irrigation system and updating cart paths.

Desert Highlands was the first design in Arizona by Jack Nicklaus, and set the bar for desert golf experiences.

Nicklaus, Gary Player, Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson have walked these fairways, as it was host site of the first Skins Game in 1983.

Nicklaus Design consultant Jon Garner oversaw the renovation of the par-four 13th hole, which has now been restored to Nicklaus’s original concept featuring two distinct landing areas, offering golfers a clear risk or reward choice off the tee. The right side requires a long and precise tee shot, while the wider option on the left offers a shorter carry and more options for the approach. 

Curtis Tyrell, who recently joined the club as Director of Agronomy from Medinah in Chicago, said: “Although rain is rare in the desert, when it comes we get large-scale rain events. Using Capillary Concrete in our bunkers will dramatically reduce the impact of such rains and mean that our greens team can concentrate their attention on providing great conditions for our members and guests.”

Capillary Concrete is an Associate Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.