Nicklaus Signature Design in Truckee, CA Rates Among Golf Digest’s Finest
(Truckee, Calif.) Old Greenwood, the Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course in Truckee, Calif., was rated among America”s finest ‘Upscale Public Courses’ by Golf Digest in 2005.
Winning courses were determined from evaluations of a nationwide panel of more than 800 golfers who judged on Shot Values, Design Variety, Resistance to Scoring, Memorability and Aesthetics.
Since it burst upon the golf scene with a late September 2004 opening, Old Greenwood has earned rave reviews among players, media and golf experts. The fourth highest ranking in the country is the latest award in a growing list of accolades. Golf Magazine had previously rated it one of the 10 Best New Public-Access Courses in the Country (February 2005).
The Natural Resource Management Center at the course was recently recognized with a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Certification, the only golf facility to earn the distinction.
‘Obviously, we’re pleased that the course has been recognized on a national level so soon,’ said Director of Golf Bob Hickam. ‘Our guests and visitors enjoy the experience and that’s translated to its popularity.’
The par-72 masterpiece plays 7,528 yards from the back, or ‘Nicklaus tees,’ with two 5 pars at 600 yards and longer. Three other teeing options measure 6,944, 6,457 and 5,419 yards. The design includes four 5 pars, four 3 pars and ten 4 pars. The course winds through Jeffrey pines and blue sagebrush with generous landing areas off the tee. Rainbow Trout filled streams connect four large lakes throughout the design that will catch a player’s attention and errant shots. The course melds into the natural landscape so that golfers enjoy a quiet game away from the hectic pace.
A highlight of the course is 578-yard, par-5 hole No. 6. With breathtaking views of the fairway curving around a lake, it’s a classic ‘risk-reward’ hole. Typical of the Nicklaus touch, No. 18 provides a memorable finish. The 451-yard par 4 plays even longer uphill to an elevated green, below the clubhouse where friends can witness the finish. When asked to name a signature hole, Nicklaus responded, ‘They’re all signature holes.’
Green fees at Old Greenwood are $170 and include a golf cart. Walkers are also welcome.
The practice area, a 15-acre facility with teeing areas at both ends, bunkers, practice chipping and putting greens features Lake Tahoe’s only Golf Digest Teaching Academy.
Old Greenwood is named for Caleb Greenwood, a mountain man when in his eighties, led hundreds of immigrants across the Sierra into California during the mid-1800s.
Old Greenwood is the focal point of a year round resort recreation community being developed by East West Partners. The initial phase has generated remarkable response and is well underway with private homes as well as luxury fractional homes offering a variety of unique plans to maximize usage. The design takes advantage of the spectacular setting with homes tucked into the woods along select holes.
Fractional home ownership includes membership in Tahoe Mountain Club with year-round amenities such as: The Alpine Club members ski valet & lounge in the new Village at Northstar; Schaffers Camp members dining atop Northstar-at-Tahoe; golf privileges at Old Greenwood & Coyote Moon; The Pavilion a swim, tennis, fitness & spa facility at Old Greenwood; and fine dining on the shores of Lake Tahoe at Wild Goose restaurant.
Old Greenwood is located just one mile east of downtown Truckee and 40 minutes west of Reno off Interstate 80, Exit 190. For additional information, visit: www.oldgreenwood.com. The golf season runs from May into October. For golf, call the Pro Shop at 530.550-7010. For real estate information, call 800-754-3070.