Black Desert is making history as the first Utah host of the PGA Tour in 60 years. In a similar vein to the iconic movie quote from Field of Dreams, “If you build it, they will come,” Utah native Patrick Manning has brought this vision to life in the form of a PGA Tour event this week and an upcoming LPGA event in the spring.
The $7.5 million Black Desert Championship is set to kick off at Black Desert Resort in Ivins, Utah, marking the third tournament in the FedEx Cup Fall series. Manning, the managing partner of Black Desert Resort, is excited about the opportunity to showcase Utah as a premier golfing destination, with 14 courses in the county alone.
When Manning first discovered the 630-acre property back in 2004, he felt a strong pull to create something special. After selling all their possessions and partnering with Reef Capital Partners, Manning set out to build a world-class golf course. Renowned architects Tom Weiskopf and Phil Smith were selected to design the course, despite facing challenges posed by the rugged landscape.
Despite Weiskopf’s diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in 2020, he remained dedicated to the project, working closely with Smith to bring their vision to life. The course, named Club 73 in honor of Weiskopf’s final design, aims to become a golfing destination akin to Bandon Dunes or Hilton Head.
Both the PGA Tour and LPGA are eager to host events at Black Desert Resort, recognizing its unique appeal and stunning design. The resort will continue to expand, offering luxurious accommodations, a waterpark, and dining options, with plans for future development in the works.
As the Black Desert Championship unfolds, viewers will catch a glimpse of Utah’s breathtaking landscape and the exceptional golf course. However, to truly experience the beauty and challenge of Black Desert Resort, one must visit in person. Smith sums up the experience best, stating, “The pictures are amazing, but when you see it in person, it’s truly awe-inspiring.”
