05olyMpiC Course site piCked
Jack nicklaus told reporters at the memorial that the
“future of the game of golf hinges” on what happens
with brazil’s plans for the 2016 olympic golf course.
those plans became more clear June 10 when organizers confirmed to local media that a new 18-hole
course will be constructed bordering the lagoa de
marapendi in barra da tijuca (shown). the course
announcement dashed the hopes of two existing
layouts, including one backed by soccer legend Pele.
“we are encouraged by the confirmation that the
riserva Uno site will be the focus with respect to the
golf venue for the 2016 olympic Games,” said IGf
vice president (and PGa tour executive) ty votaw in
a statement to Golf World Monday. the site is said to
feature sandy soil, ocean views and a prime location
next to Rio’s dynamic plans for the Olympic Village,
ensuring some killer blimp shots and a strong sense
of place. however, the hard part begins for organizers
as up to 18 design firms are believed in the running for
a decision that will be made by the local committee,
the IGf and the PGa tour. nicklaus, who has offered
his and co-designer annika Sorenstam’s services for
free, is losing patience with the timing. “the meter is
running,” he said. but if the future of the game does
indeed hinge on the course, no one can blame the
organizers for taking their time to ensure the best possible course is created.—Geoff Shackelford
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