Public Spotlight - Palm Valley Golf Club

This Billy Casper/Greg Nash layout is tucked into the northwest corner of Las Vegas. One of three courses in the Golf Summerlin family (along with Highland Falls Golf Club and Eagle Crest Golf Club), Palm Valley is the longest of the three courses at 6,849 yards from the tips. And the course gives players just what they want: A solid round of golf at great rates.

“The conditions are always great and it’s a very playable golf course,” says Shane Sanchez, head golf professional.

Along the way, players will have plenty of scoring chances, especially playing the opening and closing holes. The two holes, both par 5s, play a little over 530 yards so getting home in two is possible. But avoiding bunkers and water hazards is a must if players are looking to open and close the round with a birdie (or even an eagle for the bigger hitters). But for most players, take the smart route and lay up, leaving you a wedge into the green and a chance at birdie.

“They are definitely scoring holes,” Sanchez says. “The first is definitely reachable for the big hitters and they can get home on 18 if they cut the corner of the water. Players will definitely have to think about their shots on those two holes.”

In between, players will find a wide variety of challenges including a pair of monstrous par-3s (try the 220-yard 7th and the 228-yard 16^th on for size). And while the 7^th is long, it’s also stunning. “The 7^th hole is still one of the toughest holes in the city,” Sanchez says. “You’ve also got a great view of the whole city from the tee. In fact, all of the par 3s here are challenging. With the undulating greens, getting up and down can be tough.”

Ah yes, the greens. “They can be a challenge to putt,” Sanchez says of the bent-grass greens. “Especially if you’ve got a long putt.”

But, there are enough shorter par 4s (including four that play less than 400 yards) that will give players the chance to hit into greens with short irons in hand.

After the round, the restaurant offers casual dining with a charming atmosphere. You may walk in a stranger, but you’ll leave having made new friends. Grab your food and drink and head out on the patio to watch players finish on the 18^th hole.

Palm Valley and the Golf Summerlin family of courses is just what the doctor ordered—golf, golf and more golf. Pure and simple.

Palm Valley Golf

9201 Del Webb Blvd, Las Vegas

702-363-4373

www.golfsummerlin.com

SIDEBAR

Palm Valley Summer League

If you’re looking for that weekly game, here it is. Palm Valley is hosting a two-man (or woman) team event each Friday (except July 4) starting in June. The league, sponsored by Michelob Ultra, will run through the end of August.

In addition to weekly team prizes there will be raffles. “It’s a great way for people to get out and meet people,” Sanchez said. “We’ll start each player off with a couple of beers and there will be food. It’s just a great social event and a great time to get out and play a little golf.”

The format will be mainly best-ball (with handicap), but other variations may be added to the mix. And for those interested, there will be a Skins Game as well.