La Paloma Country Club to Renovate Course

In 1984 Jack Nicklaus played the first round of golf at La Paloma Country Club after he completed his design of the original 18 holes. Nearly 25 years later, Nicklaus has returned to Tucson, Ariz to renovate the now 27-hole facility.

"Some holes I like better than others, but I didn't see one hole that I didn't like," Nicklaus said after a visit last month. The purpose of that visit was to begin plans for a greens and bunkers renovation on nine holes, a project that began in early May.

Over the next three summers La Paloma Country Club will embark on a $3 million renovation for the three nine-hole layouts - called Ridge, Hill and Canyon. The work also involves converting the bent grass greens to a new hybrid Bermuda turf on all 27 holes, and modifying the contours of the putting surfaces.

"We are extremely lucky to have the greatest golfer in history improve on what is already an incredible golf course," said general manager Bill Petrella. "The best part is that at no time will we ever have less than 18 holes of magnificent golf available for members and resort guests."