The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale is one of Arizona’s most scenic destinations where I’ve been making memories since the early 90s, playing in charity tournaments, making business deals with associates, sponsoring the executive ladies’ Fair Play League, and simply enjoying rounds with friends. We reminisce about a best friend’s wedding reception here 20 years ago and I’ll never forget my corporate national team’s early retirement party in a shared spacious Villa, ceremoniously burning our badges in the fireplace with nightcaps. Turning into The Boulders’ entrance evokes many magical memories for us both.
The Boulders Club boasts a 6,811-yard, par-72, championship North Course and 6,726-yard, par-71 championship South Course, both designed by Jay Morrish. And both deliver challenging golf over natural high desert terrain with stunning views and superb conditions. The South Course epitomizes the resort name with No. 5 hole playing right up to a dazzling rock outcropping which shelters the green and No. 7 hole with a gigantic balancing rock (“Rosie’s Rock”) that is perched on the tee.
A recent and extensive renovation ensures the preservation of these renowned courses. All bunkers were excavated and rebuilt incorporating a technically advanced drainage and liner system featuring Capillary Concrete. This new generation lining method increases the speed at which water flows through the bunker, minimizing washouts, reducing maintenance, and producing superior playability. New bunkers were refilled with premium 50:50 bunker sand (50 percent white and 50 percent tan blended) and are expected to last for many years. We can attest that the sand is fluffy for fast outs, depending on your skill of course. The Boulders also updated green complexes on the South Course to their original shape and size, and resurfaced them with TifEagle turf, an ultra-dwarf hybrid green that offers improved speed, consistency, and playability as well as smooth transitions during seasonal weather changes. These renovations come on the heels of ownership’s recent investment in a state-of-the-art pump station designed to support efficient irrigation practices and enhancing turf health, so critical in the desert. Unlike many desert courses, these remain green through the hot summer months.
A few weeks ago, we ran into Tour Edge President and Founder David Glod, at the Charles Schwab Cup Championship at Phoenix Country Club. While we waited for his Tour Edge Champion, Bernard Langer to tee off, David shared his happiness with the weather and The Boulders, home to his company conference that week. Why not? Serene scenery and stellar service instill inspiration for business, friendships and yes, golf. The large practice facility makes the perfect spot for club testing and game improvement for all.
Our recent round on the North Course reinforced the timelessness of its desert beauty with the black mountain looming beyond the pristine fairways under the vast blue sky. Mighty saguaros served as goal posts on some tee boxes with dimpled souvenirs of failed drives. The usual roadrunners and quail danced in and out of the desert flora, but we missed the javelinas. We met visitors from Texas, New Jersey, and England and after the round we toasted with the voice of The Boulders, Debi Bridges. She introduced Brandon Christensen, the newly appointed Director of Golf Operations. Working his way up the ranks, he is now at the helm of all golf programs, golf shop operations, golf course maintenance, tennis operations and the Boulders Club membership. Considering the efficient and friendly service of his entire staff, the operations are in good hands.
While driving out and appreciating a great day, a fat javelina jogged across the road in front of us and looked as if to say, “Haha, here I am,” in cartoon fashion, perhaps foretelling more memories to come at The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale. Casitas, villas, exquisite restaurants, and a pampering full-service spa combine with tennis, pickleball, and amazing golf, managed by Troon at www.TheBoulders.com
