Apache Stronghold Golf Club back in the game

Marc Marin/ Apache Moccasin Apache Gold Casino Resort host Kevin Phillips sinks a lengthy putt at the Apache Stronghold Golf Club on Sunday morning.

San Carlos — The Apache Gold Stronghold Golf Club, part of the Apache Gold Casino Resort, opened to rave reviews in the late 1990s.

Golfweek named the course, designed by renowned golf course architect Tom Doak, No. 65 on its Top 100 Modern Courses list in its March 2001 edition. Golf Magazine listed Apache Stronghold at No. 75 on its Top 100 Public Courses list in its September 2002 edition.

Unfortunately, things slowly but surely went south for the course during the following years, culminating in the course having to close several years ago because of the recession and lack of upkeep. However, Apache Stronghold is now experiencing a rebirth.

Once filled-in bunkers are starting to reappear. Barren, brown fairways are turning lush green again. Drainage systems are once again working like they should. And getting a tee time anytime you want is no longer a given.

“We have the time, money and determination to bring this course back,” said Apache Gold Casino Resort general manager Gary Murrey. “The bones are there; the course just needs some attention to detail ... This is a very challenging course and I believe it could be a championship course; we could easily host an LPGA or Senior Tour event here.”

For the complete article see the 07-25-2012 issue.

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