How do I think the course will play for the lady pros when the Phoenix LPGA International comes to Papago Golf Course for the first time? Now that I have played the course there are some obvious items to note.
- Papago Golf Course has the length to challenge the LPGA tour players.
- There isn't much trouble on this course. The removal of bushes and trees on the course improves the views and makes it easier to tend the grass, but also minimizes the challenge on the fairways.
- There is only one hole on this course with water that comes into play, and that's the 11th hole, a par-3. I don't think the ladies will have much trouble with it.
- The challenge for LPGA players, and the difference between pars and birdies, at Papago Golf Course, will be bunker play. Many of the greens are bunkered, and some of them are pretty deep.
- Because of the bunkers, pin placement on the relatively large greens will present the challenge.
- My bottom line prediction for LPGA play on Papago Golf Course? We'll probably see some double digit low scores, and the cut will be at even par.
What about the spectators? I happen to think that the spectators will like this course. It is compact, and people will not have to walk great distances to follow their favorite players or move between holes. The greens are large and there will be room for a good number of golf fans to watch the pros sink those putts. The fairways aren't totally flat, so I expect to see people perched on top of mounds to get a great view of the action.
Factoid: The front nine at Papago Golf Course is longer, but the back nine is considered more difficult.
See tournament info, map, schedule, and photos of the Phoenix LPGA International.
