Unavoidable even for the best golfers, at least every once in a while, bunkers represent one of the primary defenses of any golf course. To enhance the playability for those who do find the sand, Wigwam Golf’s Red Course is set to undergo a four-month bunker enhancement project, beginning July 5 and wrapping up in October. The goal is to refresh the 48-year-old course’s 44 fairway and greenside bunkers, with Pro Turf International, in collaboration with The Wigwam’s ownership group, JDM Partners, executing the project. With work underway during the slower summer months, the Red Course will remain open for play through late September until fall overseeding.
The crew will excavate and rebuild each bunker, incorporating an advanced drainage and liner system featuring Capillary Concrete. This next generation method increases the speed water flows through the bunker, minimizing washouts, reducing maintenance and producing superior playability. In addition, high-quality white sand will fill the new bunkers.
The Wigwam’s Red Course has been a favorite among locals and club members since it opened in 1974. Originally called the West Course, the course was renamed in the late 80s in honor of the club’s head professional of 42 years, V.O. “Red” Allen, and the course’s architect, Robert “Red” Lawrence.
Similar bunker enhancements were completed on Wigwam Golf’s Robert Trent Jones, Sr.-designed Blue Course in 2016 and Gold Course in 2015, resulting in superior playability. The latest enhancements are among a long line of improvements meant to preserve and bolster the rich history of this Arizona golf landmark dating back to 1929.