"The renovation of the original Joe Lee design is a partnership between Greg Norman Golf Course Design and South Ocean Development Company. The course will be located in the southwestern area of New Providence Island
"With construction well under way, Greg Norman and his team walked the site for several hours and made final adjustments to a number of tees, greens and bunkers.
"Norman was chosen for this project in large part based on his vision to make South Ocean Golf Club one of the most prestigious courses in the Bahamas.
"This is a very special project, and one that I am very proud to undertake," Norman said. "I think this parcel of land is perhaps the best piece of property on the island because of its elevation changes, natural influences and constant water views."
While the front nine is routed through gently rolling land, the back nine provides a distinctively different experience. With uniquely undulating terrain, these holes wind through native Bahamian forest that features mature ficus and gumbo limbo trees.
"To improve playability, fairways and landing areas will be widened and players will be challenged with more strategic bunker complexes. In addition to lengthening the course, a new irrigation system will be installed and modern turf grass varieties will be incorporated.
"Freshwater lakes, wetlands and two natural lagoon-like "blue holes" that connect to the ocean make South Ocean Golf Club a memorable golfing experience. It will be difficult not to be entranced by the breathtaking views. South Ocean Golf and Beach Resort has developed a master plan that will feature a new beachfront hotel, marina, casino and residential apartments. The golf course is proceeding on schedule and will be open for play in time for the 2006-07 season.
"We wanted to make sure the course would be flexible enough to be enjoyed by a novice golfer yet challenging for the more advanced player," said Gene Fraser, South Ocean Director. "We felt Greg Norman best understood that philosophy and that he was most capable of carrying it out."
"Norman's hands-on approach is invaluable to the design process. Having spent 331 weeks of his three-decade professional career as the world's No. 1 ranked player, Norman had the unique opportunity to compete on many of the greatest golf courses in the world. He utilizes this vast experience in each design, with the goal of creating tournament-quality courses that maintain an enjoyable sense of playability for all skill levels."
