April 3, 2012

Shadow Creek Golf Club

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If you are surrounded by lush green grass, pine trees and waterfalls you might think you're in south or as far west as Colorado, but you can find just that, at an oasis right here in the Mojave. Shadow Creek Golf Course has more than 200 varieties of trees that cast shadows on emerald fairways and serene lagoons. It's hard to believe this wonderland was once barren desert. Just another amazing vision by Steven Wynn. Money was no object when Wynn hired Tom Fazio to create a course that would rival the best courses in country. Years later, MGM Resorts International inherited the course with the purchase of the Wynn empire.

This past Sunday, Frank and I, along with some friends were able to rub elbows with the rich and famous. We had VIP access for the Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational. That meant all the food and drink we could handle and prime viewing on the 18th hole. We also took the time to walk the course and watch the different groups tee off and putt.

Although anyone can play the course for $500 a round and a mandatory stay at one of the MGM's properties, it is rarely frequented. Leaving the most pristine course imaginable. This was my first experience so I'm probably ruined for life, but Frank and his golf buddies were utterly impressed and they've golfed the finest courses Las Vegas offers.

Each hole is unique and no hole can be seen from another. Hills are endless and they allow you to discover treasures around every bend. There are lakes, streams and lagoons. And a slew of critters, the pheasants were such a surprise.

Oh, and there were plenty of celebrities. I knew the names of many, but only recognized the faces of Michael Jordan, Aaron Rodgers, Ashton Kutcher and Alan Thicke.

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I'm told this was the home built for Steve Wynn's assistant.

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And this was the one for the Wynn family.



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