Golfology 2000

Arnie & Jack: Together in Cape Charles

As seen in Golf Styles Washington – January 2006

If Jack Nicklaus’ mark on the 20th Century was his golf game, his legacy in the 21st century will be his golf course design. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at Bay Creek Resort completes a grand vision of a golf, resort and community in the most unlikely of places – Cape Charles on Virginia’s eastern shore. Breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay and Old Plantation Creek and acres of dunes highlight the design that stretches to 7417 yards. The Nicklaus course, which joins the hugely popular two-year-old design by Arnold Palmer, is characterized by large waste bunkers and more than 100 traditional bunkers.

“I’ve picked up ideas from many of the older courses, such as Winged Foot, Baltusrol and Pinehurst No.2,” says Nicklaus. “Also some of the British courses. Some of the traditional architects such as Donald Ross, Alister MacKenzie and A.W. Tillinghast have influenced my style. I avoid disrupting the natural setting as much as possible. I believe it is important to preserve the natural features of the land and not go against what Mother Nature has created."

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