Lake Jovita Golf Course is a truly remarkable creation that has thousands of golf enthusiasts flocking every year to its lavish greens and world-class amenities. But who was the mastermind behind this awe-inspiring golf course? Well, look no further than the acclaimed Tom Lehman, a former pro golfer turned golf course designer who has left his mark on some of the most spectacular courses around the world.
Tom Lehman’s philosophy for designing golf courses revolves around creating courses that flow with the natural terrain, rather than forcing it into something that it’s not. The Lake Jovita Golf Course is no exception, as it beautifully complements the rolling hills and lush foliage of the surrounding landscape. Lehman’s uncompromising attention to detail is evident in every inch of the course, and golfers of all skill levels can attest to the challenge and excitement it presents.
With its breathtaking vistas and unmatched design, Lake Jovita Golf Course has become a destination for golfers from all over the world. Tom Lehman’s legendary craftsmanship is a testament to his passion for the game of golf, and his signature style is evident in every hole. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or you’re just starting, playing at Lake Jovita is an experience that all golfers should have on their bucket list.
Lake Jovita Golf Course History
Lake Jovita Golf Course is a championship golf course located in Dade City, Florida. It is one of the premier golf courses in the region and has a rich history that dates back to the early 1990s.
The course was designed by Kurt Sandness, a renowned golf course architect who has designed several other golf courses in the United States. Sandness’s design philosophy is to create courses that are both challenging and enjoyable for golfers of all levels.
- The construction of Lake Jovita Golf Course began in 1991 and was completed in 1993.
- The course spans over 7,200 yards and has a par of 72.
- Lake Jovita Golf Course has been recognized as one of the most challenging and picturesque golf courses in the region.
Over the years, the course has hosted several major golf tournaments, including the Web.com Tour’s Florida Q-School and the NCAA Division III Golf Championship. It has also been rated as one of the top 100 courses in Florida by Golf Digest.
Aside from golfing, Lake Jovita Golf Course offers various amenities, including a clubhouse, pro shop, driving range, and practice greens. The course is also available for weddings and other events, with stunning views of the rolling hills of Pasco County.
The Design Philosophy Behind Lake Jovita Golf Course
Kurt Sandness, the designer of Lake Jovita Golf Course, is known for his unique approach to golf course design. His philosophy is to create courses that are both challenging and enjoyable for golfers of all levels. Sandness believes that a golf course should be both beautiful and functional.
When designing Lake Jovita Golf Course, Sandness took into consideration the natural landscape of the area. The course features rolling hills, ponds, and native vegetation, which adds to its beauty and challenge.
Sandness also designed the course to be strategically challenging, with varying elevations and water hazards. He believes that golfers should be tested on different aspects of their game, including accuracy, distance, and strategy.
Overall, Sandness’s design philosophy has made Lake Jovita Golf Course a favorite among golfers in Florida. Its challenging but enjoyable layout, combined with its stunning natural surroundings, make it a must-play for golfers of all levels.
Awards and Recognitions
Over the years, Lake Jovita Golf Course has received numerous awards and recognitions for its design, beauty, and playability. Some of these awards include:
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Golf Digest’s Best Places to Play | 2008-2013 |
| PGA Tour Qualifying Site | 2007-2010 |
| GolfWeek’s Best Courses You Can Play | 2010-2014 |
These awards are a testament to the quality of Lake Jovita Golf Course and its continued success as a top golf course in Florida.
Architectural Design of Lake Jovita Golf Course
The stunning Lake Jovita Golf Course, located in Dade City, Florida, was designed by renowned golf course architect, Kurt Sandness. The course features rolling hills, gorgeous vistas, and plenty of water hazards that are sure to challenge players of all skill levels. Sandness is known for his environmentally conscious approach to course design, and his work on Lake Jovita is a prime example of this approach.
- Sandness worked closely with the developers of Lake Jovita to ensure that the course was integrated seamlessly into the natural landscape of the area. This is exemplified by the way in which the course is routed around wetlands, preserving them as a vital part of the ecosystem while still providing an engaging golf experience.
- The course is also designed to be extremely playable, offering multiple sets of tees for golfers of varying skill levels. This allows golfers to enjoy the challenges presented by the course without feeling overwhelmed or intimidated by its difficulty.
- The bunkering on the course is also strategically placed, both to provide challenges and to add to the overall aesthetic of the course. Sandness designed the bunkers to be an integral part of the course’s visual appeal, while also making them an important part of the strategic experience of playing the course.
Overall, Sandness’s design for Lake Jovita Golf Course is a standout example of environmentally conscious golf course design. By working closely with the natural landscape, Sandness was able to design a course that provides golfers with a challenging and engaging experience while also preserving the beauty and integrity of the surrounding environment.
The Benefits of Sand-Based Greens
In addition to his environmentally conscious approach to course design, Kurt Sandness is also known for his use of sand-based greens. This approach has a number of benefits over traditional grass greens, including:
- Improved drainage: Sand-based greens offer superior drainage compared to traditional grass greens. This means that water does not accumulate on the greens, allowing golfers to more easily play after even the heaviest of rains.
- Reduced maintenance: Sand-based greens require less mowing and watering than grass greens, reducing the amount of time and money required to maintain them.
- Consistent surface: Because sand-based greens are made up of sand and organic material, they offer a consistent surface that does not change significantly over time. This means that golfers can more accurately predict the way the ball will roll on the green from shot to shot.
Given these benefits, it is no surprise that Sandness has chosen to incorporate sand-based greens into his design for Lake Jovita Golf Course. This design decision has contributed to the course’s reputation as one of the most enjoyable and well-maintained courses in the state of Florida.
Course Layout and Hole-by-Hole Guide
The course at Lake Jovita is laid out in a traditional parkland style, with rolling hills and natural vegetation providing a stunning backdrop to the fairways. The course is par 72 and measures just over 7,200 yards from the back tees, offering a challenging experience to golfers of all skill levels. Below is a hole-by-hole guide to the course:
| Hole | Par | Distance (yards) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | 420 | A dogleg left that demands an accurate tee shot to set up a second shot over a water hazard. |
| 2 | 3 | 175 | This downhill par 3 features a small green surrounded by bunkers. |
| 3 | 4 | 430 | A long par 4 that requires a well-placed tee shot to avoid the trees on both sides of the fairway. |
| 4 | 5 | 570 | A challenging par 5 that requires accuracy on both the tee shot and approach. |
| 5 | 4 | 405 | A short par 4 with a narrow fairway and a well-protected green. |
| 6 | 3 | 195 | A long par 3 that requires a well-struck tee shot to avoid bunkers and reach the green. |
| 7 | 4 | 440 | A tough par 4 that plays uphill towards a narrow green guarded by bunkers. |
| 8 | 5 | 550 | A long par 5 that requires accuracy on both the tee shot and approach to avoid the water hazards. |
| 9 | 4 | 405 | The front nine finishes with a short par 4 that features a wide fairway and a well-bunkered green. |
| 10 | 4 | 410 | The back nine starts with a dogleg left that requires accuracy on both the tee shot and approach. |
| 11 | 3 | 205 | A long par 3 that requires a well-struck tee shot to carry over the water hazards to the green. |
| 12 | 4 | 375 | A shorter par 4 that requires accuracy off the tee to avoid the bunkers and water hazards. |
| 13 | 5 | 560 | A long par 5 that plays downhill towards a green heavily guarded by bunkers. |
| 14 | 4 | 420 | A slightly uphill par 4 that requires a well-placed tee shot to avoid the bunkers on both sides of the fairway. |
| 15 | 3 | 180 | A downhill par 3 with a large green surrounded by bunkers. |
| 16 | 4 | 435 | A long par 4 with a wide fairway and a well-protected green. |
| 17 | 4 | 405 | A shorter par 4 that requires accuracy off the tee to avoid the bunkers and water hazards. |
| 18 | 5 | 565 | The course finishes with a long par 5 that requires accuracy on both the tee shot and approach to avoid the bunkers and water hazards en route to the green. |
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner just starting to learn the game, Lake Jovita Golf Course offers something for every golfer. With its stunning natural vistas, clever design, and challenging layout, it’s no wonder that more and more golfers are making the trip to Dade City to experience this incredible course for themselves.
Significance of Lake Jovita Golf Course Designer
When it comes to building a world-class golf course, the person behind the design is just as important as the course itself. As such, the work of the designer can make a significant impact on the course.
One such designer is Kurt Sandness, who was responsible for the design of Lake Jovita Golf Course. Below, we’ll look at the significance of this designer and how his work has shaped the course:
Expertise in Golf Course Design
- Kurt Sandness has been designing golf courses for over 30 years and has a wealth of experience in the industry.
- He has worked on numerous golf course design projects around the world, including in the United States, Asia, and Europe.
- His expertise in golf course design and his passion for the sport meant that he was the perfect person to design Lake Jovita Golf Course.
The Importance of Location
When designing a golf course, one of the most important factors to consider is the location. Kurt Sandness knew this and spent many hours surveying the land to ensure that every hole would be situated in the perfect spot.
As a result, Lake Jovita Golf Course boasts some of the most picturesque views in the area and has become a popular destination for golfers from all over the world.
Innovative Design Elements
To set Lake Jovita Golf Course apart from other golf courses in the region, Kurt Sandness incorporated several innovative design elements, such as:
| 1. | Large, undulating greens that require players to use all of their skills to make par. |
| 2. | Bunkers that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape, instead of sticking out like sore thumbs. |
| 3. | Elevated tee boxes that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. |
These design elements not only make the course more challenging for experienced golfers but also make it a more enjoyable experience for everyone who plays there.
Conclusion
The work of Kurt Sandness in designing Lake Jovita Golf Course cannot be overstated. His expertise in golf course design, attention to detail, and innovative design elements have made the course one of the most popular in Florida. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or a beginner, a round at Lake Jovita Golf Course is sure to be a memorable experience.
Lake Jovita Golf Course Layout
The Lake Jovita Golf Course, located just north of Tampa, Florida, was designed by renowned golf course architect, Tom Lehman. The golf course, which features two 18-hole courses, was opened in 1999 and has since become a popular destination for golfers of all skill levels.
The Design Concept
Lehman’s design philosophy for Lake Jovita was to create a challenging course that would also be fun and enjoyable for golfers of all abilities. The course was designed to take full advantage of the natural terrain, incorporating rolling hills, wetlands, and natural water features to create a unique and scenic golfing experience.
- The North Course
- The South Course
North Course
The North Course at Lake Jovita Golf Course features a traditional layout with wide fairways and challenging greens. The course measures 7,153 yards from the back tees and has a rating of 75.3, making it one of the most challenging courses in the area.
One of the signature holes on the North Course is the 17th hole, a par-3 that stretches 219 yards downhill to a green that is surrounded by bunkers and water. This hole requires accuracy and precision to avoid the hazards and make it to the green in regulation.
South Course
The South Course, on the other hand, features a more modern design with narrower fairways and larger greens. The course measures 7,153 yards from the back tees and has a rating of 75.3, making it equally challenging to the North Course.
One of the unique features of the South Course is the 18th hole, a 453-yard par-4 that requires a well-placed tee shot to avoid the water on the left side of the fairway. The green is elevated and well-protected by bunkers, making it a challenging approach shot for any golfer.
Conclusion
Tom Lehman’s design of Lake Jovita Golf Course has created two unique and challenging courses that are popular with golfers of all levels. The courses’ natural features, combined with Lehman’s design philosophy, have resulted in a golfing experience that is both fun and challenging. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, Lake Jovita Golf Course is a must-play destination for anyone visiting the Tampa area.
| North Course | South Course |
|---|---|
| 7,153 yards | 7,153 yards |
| Rating: 75.3 | Rating: 75.3 |
| Traditional design | Modern design |
| Wide fairways, challenging greens | Narrow fairways, large greens |
Lake Jovita Golf Course Features
When it comes to stunning golf courses in Florida, Lake Jovita Golf Course is one that stands out. Spanning over 1,054 acres in Dade City, Lake Jovita Golf Course was designed by one of the most renowned golf course architects in the world – Tom Lehman. Known for his attention to detail, Tom Lehman created a world-class golf course that offers players an experience unlike any other.
One of the key features of Lake Jovita Golf Course is its elevation changes. The course boasts a nearly 250-foot change in elevation, providing players with challenging shots and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The course features five sets of tees, allowing golfers of all skill levels to tackle the challenging layout.
Another hallmark of Lake Jovita Golf Course is its immaculate conditioning. The course is meticulously maintained, providing players with pristine fairways and greens. The course also features strategically placed bunkers and water hazards, adding to the overall challenge of the course.
Here are some of the features of Lake Jovita Golf Course in more detail:
- Five sets of tees to cater to golfers of all skill levels
- Challenging elevation changes that provide stunning views
- Bunkers and water hazards placed strategically throughout the course
- Pristine conditioning thanks to meticulous maintenance
- A clubhouse that offers spectacular views of the course
If you’re looking for an unforgettable golf experience in Florida, Lake Jovita Golf Course is a must-play. With its stunning views and challenging layout, this course promises to be a highlight of any golf trip. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’ll find plenty to love about this Tom Lehman-designed gem.
One of the unique features of Lake Jovita Golf Course is its clubhouse. It offers spectacular views of the course and the surrounding countryside, making it the perfect place to relax after a round of golf. The clubhouse also features a pro shop stocked with the latest golf equipment and apparel.
For those looking for an all-inclusive golf experience, Lake Jovita Golf Course offers an array of amenities. These include locker room facilities, a driving range, and practice areas for chipping and putting. The course is also home to an active golf community that hosts regular tournaments and events.
For more detailed information about the course layout, here’s a breakdown of Lake Jovita Golf Course’s hole-by-hole measurements:
| Hole | Par | Yards |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | 389 |
| 2 | 5 | 563 |
| 3 | 3 | 205 |
| 4 | 4 | 460 |
| 5 | 4 | 412 |
| 6 | 5 | 578 |
| 7 | 3 | 192 |
| 8 | 4 | 467 |
| 9 | 4 | 374 |
| 10 | 4 | 435 |
| 11 | 3 | 170 |
| 12 | 4 | 456 |
| 13 | 5 | 570 |
| 14 | 4 | 442 |
| 15 | 3 | 192 |
| 16 | 4 | 380 |
| 17 | 5 | 522 |
| 18 | 4 | 437 |
Overall, Lake Jovita Golf Course is a world-class facility that offers golfers an unforgettable experience. From its challenging layout to its stunning views, there’s something for everyone at this Tom Lehman-designed gem. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Florida, be sure to add Lake Jovita Golf Course to your must-play list.
Lake Jovita Golf Course Maintenance
Golf course maintenance is crucial to ensuring that the course is always in top condition. At Lake Jovita Golf Course, the maintenance is managed by a team of professionals who work tirelessly to keep the golf course in excellent shape. Here are some of the ways the team ensures the maintenance of the golf course:
- The team ensures that the turf is healthy by regularly aerating, fertilizing, and watering the course. This ensures that the turf remains lush and green, and the ball rolls smoothly on the fairways and greens.
- The team also maintains the bunkers to ensure that they are always in top condition. They regularly rake the sand, and replace it when required to maintain consistent playing conditions.
- They also ensure that the water features, such as the ponds and streams, are well-maintained and visually appealing. This includes regularly cleaning the water features and ensuring that aquatic plants are maintained at an appropriate level, so they do not obstruct play.
Equipment Maintenance
In addition to maintaining the golf course itself, the maintenance team at Lake Jovita Golf Course is also responsible for maintaining all the equipment used to maintain the course. This includes mowers, tractors, and other specialized equipment. By ensuring that the equipment is well-maintained, the team ensures that the course remains in excellent condition throughout the year.
Expertise and Training
The maintenance team at Lake Jovita Golf Course is made up of skilled professionals who have undergone extensive training in golf course maintenance. They are well-versed in all aspects of golf course maintenance, from turf management to irrigation systems and everything in between. By hiring skilled professionals, Lake Jovita Golf Course can ensure that the golf course remains in top condition, and golfers can enjoy a great game every time they visit the course.
Maintenance Schedule
Finally, the maintenance team at Lake Jovita Golf Course regularly follows a maintenance schedule to ensure that all areas of the golf course are regularly inspected and maintained. They also regularly communicate with the golfers to inform them of any maintenance work that may affect their gaming experience. By following a strict maintenance schedule, the maintenance team can ensure that the course remains in excellent condition and ready for play at all times.
| Month | Maintenance Task |
|---|---|
| January | Aeration and fertilization of greens and fairways. |
| February | Overseeding of dormant grass. |
| March | Clean-up of the golf course after winter and preparation for the spring season. |
| April | Opening of the golf course. Fertilization, aeration, and topdressing of greens. |
| May | Regular mowing, irrigation system inspection. |
| June | Lowering of roughs, maintenance work on bunkers, irrigation system inspection. |
| July | Topdressing of greens, inspection of drainage systems. |
| August | Fertilization and aeration of greens and fairways, overseeding of the course for the winter season. |
| September | Clean-up of the golf course after summer and preparation for the winter season. |
| October | Regular mowing, irrigation system winterization. |
| November | Winter maintenance, topdressing of greens, and inspection of bunker drainage systems. |
| December | Closing of the golf course for winter maintenance work. |
The maintenance team at Lake Jovita Golf Course is committed to providing golfers with a challenging and enjoyable game on a course that is always in top condition. By following a rigorous maintenance schedule and ensuring that the equipment and course are well-maintained, golfers can enjoy a first-class golfing experience throughout the year.
Future Plans for Lake Jovita Golf Course
As one of the premier golf courses in the Tampa Bay area, Lake Jovita Golf Course is constantly looking for ways to improve and enhance the experience for its members and guests. Here are some of the exciting plans for the future of Lake Jovita Golf Course:
- Expansion of the Practice Facilities: Lake Jovita Golf Course plans to expand its practice facilities by adding a new range and short game area. This will provide members and guests with a more comprehensive practice experience.
- Renovation of the Clubhouse: The clubhouse at Lake Jovita Golf Course will undergo a major renovation, which will include updating the dining areas, adding new locker rooms, and enhancing the overall aesthetics of the clubhouse.
- Upgrade of the Golf Course: Lake Jovita Golf Course plans to upgrade the golf course with new tees, greens, and bunkers. This will not only improve the playability of the course but also enhance its overall beauty.
In addition to these plans, Lake Jovita Golf Course is also committed to reducing its environmental impact. The golf course has implemented a number of sustainable practices, such as the use of recycled water for irrigation and the implementation of a comprehensive recycling program.
To keep pace with the ever-changing world of golf, Lake Jovita Golf Course will continue to innovate and improve. Its dedication to providing an exceptional golf experience to its members and guests will always be its top priority.
| Future Plans for Lake Jovita Golf Course | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Expansion of the Practice Facilities | 2022 |
| Renovation of the Clubhouse | 2023-2024 |
| Upgrade of the Golf Course | 2025-2026 |
With these exciting plans, Lake Jovita Golf Course will continue to be one of the premier golf destinations in the Tampa Bay area for years to come.
FAQs about Who Designed Lake Jovita Golf Course
Q: Who is the designer of Lake Jovita Golf Course?
The Lake Jovita Golf Course was designed by Tom Lehman and Kurt Sandness.
Q: Is Tom Lehman still involved with Lake Jovita Golf Course?
Tom Lehman is no longer involved with the Lake Jovita Golf Course. He and his team had created an original design and supervised the construction before opening it to the golfers.
Q: What is the design style of Lake Jovita Golf Course?
Lake Jovita Golf Course is a classic Florida golf course featuring rolling hills, dramatic elevations, and beautiful scenery. It has a traditional style that offers an exciting challenge to players of all levels.
Q: What is the size of the Lake Jovita Golf Course?
The Lake Jovita Golf Course is spread over 793 acres with two 18-hole championship golf courses: North and South.
Q: When was the Lake Jovita Golf Course built?
The Lake Jovita Golf Course was built in 1999 and was initially designed to be the centerpiece of the Lake Jovita community.
Q: How can I play at the Lake Jovita Golf Course?
To play at the Lake Jovita Golf Course, you need to book a tee time in advance. It is open to members and public players, and you can book tee times online or by phone.
Closing: Thanks for Enjoying Lake Jovita Golf Course
Thanks for taking the time to read about the designer of Lake Jovita Golf Course. We hope you found the information helpful. If you’re ever in the area, we invite you to come and experience the Lake Jovita Golf Course for yourself. Our two championship courses offer challenges for golfers of all skill levels, and the stunning scenery and friendly atmosphere make for a memorable round of golf. Thank you again for reading and we hope to see you soon!