Phil Mickelson opens new golf course in Scottsdale

Phil Mickelson was out in Scottsdale today for the opening of his new golf course, the McDowell Mountain Golf Club.

The course, located at 10690 E. Sheena Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, was formerly known as the Sanctuary Golf Course.

With the help of golf course architect Randy Heckenkemper, there were significant enhancements to the course and renovations of the club.

Some of the enhancements included widening of the playing corridors, the reshaping of a number of fairways, several new teeing areas and additional strategic waste bunkers.

Mickelson, an Arizona State University graduate, often is in the Valley supporting the golf scene.

He spoke about creating a family atmosphere at McDowell Mountain Golf Club.

“All the people that live here in the McDowell Mountain area, we have 4,00 home and families here, we hope that this is a family club and you can take your kids out here and enjoy,” Mickelson said. “I would love to see the club support the community, but from a selfish point of view I hope it grows the game of golf.”

Nestled in the heart of the community at the foot of the McDowell Mountains, Mickelson along with Steve Loy, acquired the operating rights to the club with a goal of bringing in the community and fostering young talent.

“We have had some good young American players step up and really have great years in golf,” he said. “I want to see kids grow up on the golf course, it was so fun for me to grow up spending time on the course. I want to have a place where you can come out and where people are there to teach you. Have a course that is fun and playable.”  

Rick Smith Golf Academy is going to offer people at the club world class instruction, Mickelson said.

“This is a course that is fun and playable,” Mickelson said. “Having that fun experience I hope will get kids, as well as families compelled to play.”

For more information on rates and the renovated McDowell Mountain Golf Club visit www.mcdowellmountaingc.com.