A 12-hole golf course is a new concept to me, but honestly, one I could really get into
By Scott Dolan
On Dec. 12, Calusa Country Club in Lakewood Ranch opened a new 12-hole course. I’ve been saying this for years: Nine holes can feel too short, but unless you’re living the luxury retirement life, 18 holes is often more time than many of us have. Another reality is that many seniors do not always want to play 18 holes but do so anyway because they want what they paid for. The magic number really depends on the golfer — and even the day. For some, 12 holes is perfect. For others, sunrise to sunset is the goal. It all depends on the person.
When I first heard about the 12-hole concept, my joke was, “What, did they have extra land they didn’t know what to do with?” As it turns out, that is actually true. Director of Golf Dylan Wright explained that after planning space for the homes currently under construction, the Sweden’s Cove neighborhood still had enough room for 12 tee boxes and 12 greens, allowing for this unique layout.
Do not underestimate what I’m telling you. This is a brand-new course with impeccable grounds and fairways. It is so green I would describe it as Ireland green. The course is very playable and offers multiple distance options that can suit your game, skill level and even your mood that day.
Because the surrounding neighborhoods are still under construction, there are a few pros and cons. At first glance, you will notice developing land, dusty cart paths and some construction views that can be an eyesore. That said, once you reach the green spaces, the construction fades into the background and you quickly settle into an enjoyable round, no matter how many holes you choose to play.
Once this community is fully built out in the next five to seven years, the course will transition into a private country club. For now, it remains open to the public. I strongly suggest getting out to play a few rounds over the next few years before it becomes private.
A true signature hole has not officially been named yet, but Hole 2 appears to be a favorite. It is a Cape-style hole with a stretch of out of bounds in front of you and a dogleg wrapping around it. Hole 3 stands out as the toughest par 3 on the property. Personally, I really enjoyed Hole 8 with its crescent moon-shaped tee box.
Calusa is not quite at full country club status yet. The pro shop currently operates out of a temporary trailer, and on weekends, food is available via a food truck. That said, the beverage cart is stocked with beer and seltzers, and the golf carts are fully equipped with GPS, coolers, bottled water and even headlights for a potential dusk tiebreaker hole.
Looking ahead, Calusa has exciting plans in place. A burger shack is planned between holes 9 and 10 as the course expands to a 19-hole concept. An 18-hole putting course and a tiki bar are also in development, with future access to holes 12 through 18 via golf cart. Course conditions are a point of pride, and Superintendent Tyler Bennett has done an outstanding job maintaining the grounds. The team behind the course includes Brandon McNeely, head pro Nick Kaufman, Director of Golf Dylan Wright and course designer Gordon Lewis III.
