Raven Golf Club — the highly regarded daily-fee golf course etched into a rugged mountain slope with sweeping panoramic vistas of the surrounding valley and the Phoenix skyline—has been totally transformed by a major course renovation. The project opened playing corridors to showcase panoramic views, re-vitalized tee complexes and adjacent desert areas, and restored the course’s 60 sand bunkers, delivering an enhanced playing experience.
Owned by Arcis Golf, the second largest owner and operator of private, resort and daily fee facilities in the United States, Raven Golf Club is one of the company’s 13 properties in the greater Phoenix area, including 3 private and 10 daily fee clubs. Grayhawk Golf Club, located in Scottsdale, was acquired by Arcis in June 2023. The Stone Canyon Club in Tucson and The Golf Club at Chaparral Pines and The Rim Golf Club in Payson, Arizona are also part of the Arcis portfolio.
Sand bunkers were re-configured to be relevant for today’s game, equipment, and varied skill levels of golfers. Arcis Golf’s Construction Division led the project using the Better Billy Bunker liner system and a specialty blend of sand from Gillibrand Materials in Simi Valley, Calif. This brighter, white sand offers a stunning contrast to the lush green grass and Jesse Red decomposed granite framing all the tee complexes.
Raven Golf Club also features expansive, multi-tiered greens, which along with its unique assortment of now-renovated bunkers and water features, creates both strategic diversity and a stunning backdrop for golf. The par-72 course, originally designed by Gary Panks and David Graham, plays to 7,078 yards from the back tees, while offering a fair test from the 6,264-yard forward tees. A unique set of family tees enable golfers of all ages and abilities to enjoy this desert golf oasis.
“Showcasing vistas of the Phoenix skyline and distant mountains adds to the overall playing experience,” explained Ed Easley, Senior Vice President, Construction, for Arcis Golf. “Today, the original intent and strategy for each hole has been recaptured. The views for golfers have been enhanced immensely, leading to a more dynamic golf experience.”
Among the more dramatic changes, a large bunker on the 11th hole was divided into three separate hazards where there were formerly two. On the signature, par-3 7th hole a lake along the left side and a bunker that runs the entire length of the hole to the green are once again fully visible, adding to the intrigue and challenge.
During the project, non-native species and trees that blocked golfers’ sight lines were removed from all tee complexes. Several tee surfaces were leveled and re-grassed, while drainage was improved throughout the course.
The Raven’s halfway house—The Nest—has been completely reimagined and a new patio added. Expanded bar seating, coupled with eclectic grab-and-go fare in a café-style environment, make this a popular gathering spot before, after, and during rounds.
“These significant enhancements reflect our commitment to delivering top-quality daily-fee golf for golfers and visitors in the Phoenix market,” said Blake S. Walker, Founder and CEO of Arcis Golf. “Our focus and investment are on enhancing the overall golfer experience and providing a variety of golf options at every level.” Arcis Golf offers several frequent-play subscription options for golfers through its Arcis Players’ Programs.
Raven Golf Club’s spectacular golf course, array of world-class amenities, and unparalleled guest service have earned it recognition among the nation’s top daily fee golf courses – including 4.5 stars by Golf Digest and “#5 Golf Course in the State” by Arizona Magazine.
Before or after a round, golfers can hone their skills on the club’s expansive golf practice facility, complete with a putting green, chipping green with a practice bunker, large grass hitting area, and double-sided driving range with five strategically placed target greens or take a lesson from one of the club’s award-winning PGA teaching professionals. A variety of golf instructional programs are offered year-round, ranging from private lessons and on-course instruction to group clinics and summer junior golf camps. An on-site True Spec golf club fitting center services players of all abilities.
Just five miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Raven Golf Club has an array of upscale banquet and catering amenities that make it one of the region’s most memorable destinations for golf tournaments, corporate outings, and special events of all sizes and types.
An industry leader in providing inventive programming and unrivaled lifestyle amenities that complement exceptional golf offerings, Arcis Golf has invested approximately $100 million in the past four years on property upgrades, new amenities, personnel, training, and systems to create extraordinary experiences and forge emotional connections with members and guests. The company has received numerous honors, including a National Golf Foundation “2023 Top 100 Businesses in Golf.”
To learn more about Arcis Golf, visit www.arcisgolf.com. For further information about Raven Golf Club, visit www.ravenphx.com