Jack Nicklaus makes final construction visit to Royal Palm

The Golden Bear's redesign work on this 43-year-old layout is bringing this Boca Raton gem along the Intracoastal into the new millennium

BOCA RATON, Fla. - Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club is already richly steeped in history and tradition, and now this South Florida jewel is moving closer to making new history.

Jack Nicklaus recently made his final site visit to Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club, providing the finishing touches to the golf course as construction nears an end on this high-profile redesign project. Originally designed by the late Robert Trent Jones, Royal Palm was founded in 1959, and immediately established itself as one of the premier private clubs in Palm Beach County and South Florida.

Upon opening, the club and golf course not only benefited from its location in the center of Boca Raton and along the Intracoastal Waterway, but the club's cache stretched all the way to its golf staff. Legendary Sam Snead, who passed away May 23, 2002, was the club's first golf professional.

Now, Royal Palm is adding to its rich history with its commitment to upgrade the golf facilities. Nicklaus and his North Palm Beach-based firm, Nicklaus Design, were retained to create a modern and challenging golf course for the existing and growing membership. Nicklaus made use of more than 70 bunkers and eight lakes in the reworked strategy, to provide the balance needed - a test when the par-72 course is played back at 7,000 yards, but an enjoyable and memorable experience from every tee and for players of all skill levels.

Construction on the course began in April, with grassing to be completed in October. Opening of the new layout is currently scheduled for January 15, 2003.