LITCHFIELD PARK, Ariz. -- A legend has been reborn on the Arizona golf scene.

The Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa completed a $5 million renovation at its renowned Golf Club during the summer of 2005, restoring the grandeur of two signature courses, The Gold and The Blue, and developing one of the Southwest’s most extensive practice facilities. Forrest Richardson, a golf course architect with numerous classic restorations to his credit, oversaw the enhancements of the courses originally designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr.

Special attention was paid to The Gold to recreate the “Heroic Strategies” envisioned by Jones. Bunkers were reshaped and greens were expanded using aerial photos from the 1960s. Tee boxes were elongated and a fourth set of tees was added. The Gold now plays nearly 7,600 yards from the tips, earning it the moniker “Arizona’s Monster.”

Considerable changes were made to the Blue Course, including a complete reconstruction of two holes. The 15th hole now features a dramatic ‘Island Green’ and the 17th hole was reformed to mirror Augusta National’s par-3 No. 16, which was designed by Jones.

Also part of the project was the creating of a state-of-the-art practice and learning facility located just steps from the clubhouse. The exclusive facility is among the largest in Arizona and includes a 350-foot wide, dual-ended driving range; target greens; and three separate greens for putting, chipping and pitching.

The centerpiece of the new golf experience is the new “Village Green,” a two-acre putting green and garden that can be enjoyed by guests throughout the day and evening. Rolling putting surfaces meander through giant saguaros, flowers and Sonoran desert landscape. Sophisticated sound and lighting makes for a perfect setting to sip on a drink and take in the day or starlit night.
Richardson's work was focused on returning the two courses to their place in Phoenix history.