Phil Mickelson
Profile
Another celebrity golfer turned 'signature designer', Phil Mickelson worked with architect Gary Stephenson on his first course at the Whisper Rock Club in Arizona. He has since worked with different designers and associates, including Rick Smith and Joe Oebringer at the dreadfully disappointing Acqua course in Yunnan Province, China.
Given Mickelson's popularity it seems certain that more signature projects will come his way in the future. For the sake of the industry one can only hope that the quality improves, and the focus turns from green grass, eye-candy hazards and 320-yard turn points to strategic, original and interesting design. Whether Mickelson has a genuine passion for design, or has simply recognized the earning potential of selling his brand in this way, there is certain to be much scrutiny in the years ahead as he continues to attract new design clients.
From a marketing perspective Phil Mickelson does seem a sound design choice, and he may be a good candidate for your golf course project. Ideally, however, he would be given strong design direction and ideally partnered with a Quality 'independent' course designer.
Developers looking to create genuine top quality golf courses should contact Global Golf Group for advice on how best to achieve their goals and for general information on available course design options.
