Calusa unveils new 12-hole course

Sarasota venue to open new shorter format course to cater for demand for 'faster, more flexible' play.

Calusa Country Club is joining a growing number of venues that are embracing the demand for less time-consuming golf experiences
Calusa Country Club is joining a growing number of venues that are embracing the demand for less time-consuming golf experiences

Calusa Country Club in Florida is to open a new 12-hole course that has been designed with ‘fun, flexibility, and strategic shot-making’ in mind. 

The par-48 layout at the Lakewood Ranch venue, which was designed by golf course architect Gordon Lewis, measures 4,895 yards from the back tees and blends a variety of par-3, 4, and 5 holes that feature multiple tee options to suit a wide range of golfers.  

“It’s a fun, quick-to-play journey,” said Lewis, highlighting the risk/reward par-5 second, which plays between 412 and 549 yards, and the short par-3 eighth, which plays between 87 and 117 yards, as his two favourite holes on the card. “Number two is a ‘cape’ hole, which means bite off what you dare on the drive. It’s always been one of my favourite shots. And then there is number 8 – it’s a little cutie. With a tee that is 200 feet wide, golfers will have a different angle of attack every day they play.” 

The new course complements Calusa’s existing golf facilities, including an 18-hole championship layout which opened in February – and was also designed by Lewis – a one-acre putting course, golf simulator, aqua range, and short game practice area. 

Matthew Koratich, Director of Community Management at Lennar Southwest Florida, which owns the facility, said: “At Calusa Country Club, we are redefining what the golf experience can look like. The new 12-hole course caters to the growing demand for faster, more flexible play without compromising variety or challenge. It’s a forward-thinking design that makes the game more accessible, especially for juniors, newcomers, and time-conscious players, while still delivering the strategic elements experienced golfers appreciate. 

“As part of Lennar’s commitment to creating vibrant, connected communities, we are proud to pair this innovative course with amenities like our expansive putting course, golf simulator, and junior golf programs. We are not just building a course; we are helping grow the next generation of the game.”

The club is being partnered by Troon Golf. Chief operating officer Bruce Glasco said: “We congratulate Lennar and the team at Calusa Country Club on the upcoming opening of their new 12-hole course. The golf amenities they are creating at Calusa are making the game more fun and accessible for all. Troon is proud to partner with a forward-thinking organization and honored to help them execute the vision.”

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