Foothills Course Review

Course Review - The Foothills Golf Club

From the designers who brought Arizona, Troon North and the TPC Stadium (the Phoenix Open course), comes this refreshing surprise in the buttes of South Mountain. Even today, this links-style course, designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, remains a diamond in the rough in the designers’ portfolio. The Foothills layout is similar to that of the TPC Stadium course and the risk to reward factor is very apparent on each hole. Varying elevations, rolling fairways, thick rough, fast paced greens, and 65 bunkers provides numerous challenges throughout the round. Hit shots downhill and pitch to greens beneath you, negotiate subtle fairway humps and tiers, and find the right break on the expansive putting surfaces. The Foothills provides a plethora of shot-making opportunities. There is even the Weiskopf trademark: a drivable par 4, the 298 yard, 6th hole. Despite its challenges, the layout is very playable, whether you blast from the tee box or rely on short-iron legerdemain, and provides an engaging, accommodating and felicitous day of golf.

The signature hole is the 8th hole. This par 5 winds downhill and can be reached with 2 long rips. The temptation for the dramatic shot is tantalizing especially on the second shot, where you must avoid the large pond on the right and behind the green.

Other Information - The Foothills Golf Club

Practice Facilities: Well kept practicing facilities are complete with driving range, putting and chipping greens, and practice sand traps. Practice balls are extra.

19th Hole: The Double Eagle Grill restaurant is only a part of the fabulous facilities at The Foothills. Banquet rooms, two spacious outdoor covered patios for up to 250 guests, and a 144 seat theater with performing stage, lighting, audio/visual equipment are available. There is also a snack bar, and drink cart.

Clubhouse: The newly remodeled full service clubhouse and pro shop facility is set on a rocky prominence with panoramic views of the golf course and surrounding Estrella and South Mountain ranges. There is also a locker room at this beautiful facility.

The Players:

• Designer: Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish
• General Manager: Mic Sternard
• Superintendent: James Stow

Golf Lessons There is a full staff of PGA professionals on hand to help you improve your game.

Grass type: Bermuda with rye grass overseed during the winter months.

Fivesomes are allowed with prior approval.
Walking is permitted.

Recommended handicap: With four sets of tee boxes, players of all levels and skills (scratch golfer to a 75 handicap) can enjoy the experience and challenge of The Foothills. It is also a very woman friendly course.

1 -10 Course Rating by Meridian’s Golf Specialists: 7 ½

Comments by Meridian Guests:

• “I loved the elevation changes and the varied scenery throughout the round.” I am a low handicap and I played with my son who is a beginner. We both were able to really enjoy the course. It was a perfect choice.”
• “Weiskopf had the regular golfer in mind with this one.” “Challenging but not penal.”

The Drive: Many guests play the Foothills the day they arrive or the day they leave because of its proximity to Phoenix Sky Harbour Airport. It is approximately 30 minutes from Meridian CondoResorts.