What is being called ‘The World’s Most Magical Celebration’ is under way as Walt Disney World Resort is commemorating its 50th anniversary. Known around the globe for theme parks, resorts, water parks, a vacation club, exceptional dining and retail options – world class golf courses have also been a significant part of the guest experience since opening day, October 1, 1971.
When Walt Disney sketched his original plans for the Central Florida resort, he set aside a large area and simply labeled it as “golf.” While not a golfer himself, Disney recognised the game would have an important role as he created a new family destination to build on the success of California’s Disneyland, which did not have a golf course. Through ties with Arnold Palmer that began in that first year and continues today through Arnold Palmer Golf Management, the resort now sees upwards of 200,000 rounds played annually at its four courses.
The quartet of layouts – the 18-hole Palm, Magnolia and Lake Buena Vista courses and the 9-hole Oak Trail – are designed to be challenging for elite players while being playable for all skill levels at what is marketed as ‘The Happiest Place on Turf‘.
The PGA Tour held the Walt Disney World Open Invitational on the Palm and Magnolia courses from 1971-2012, with Jack Nicklaus winning the first three tournaments. It became a team event in 1974, with Hubert Green and Mac McLendon pairing up to break Nicklaus’ grasp on the title. It remained a team event until 1981, with Hal Sutton beating Bill Britton in a four-hole playoff after resumption of individual competition in 1982. Payne Stewart, Ray Floyd, Larry Nelson, Davis Love III, Ben Crenshaw were all past winners, as was Tiger Woods, who won his second PGA Tour title there in 1996 and again in 1999.
Walt Disney World also hosted the Senior PGA Championship from 1975-79 on the Magnolia course, while the LPGA Tour held the HealthSouth Inaugural in 1996 and 1997 on the Lake Buena Vista course.
Arnold Palmer’s eponymous management company took over operation of the courses in 2011, and in 2013 he renovated the Palm that, along with the Magnolia and Lake Buena Vista courses, had originally been designed by prolific architect Joe Lee.
“We believe we have a social obligation to grow the game, especially from the perspective of showcasing junior golf and diversity into the sport,” said General Manager Bruce Gerlander. “Our commitment to guests has never wavered. We create an all-encompassing Disney experience while providing the opportunity to play golf where champions have played.”
Walt Disney World’s party to celebrate its 50th birthday began in October last year and will run through to the end of March 2023.
To book a tee time at Walt Disney World, visit www.golfwdw.com.
