Rodeo Dunes, the latest work by architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, is visibly taking form: links-inspired routing, purposeful bunkering and dune-swept fairways are being carved out as earthmoving continues. Visuals from the site indicate the build is advancing toward preview play prior to an anticipated opening.
LIV golfers gain a formal pathway to qualify for The Open, with access to established qualifying events and select exemptions.Officials say the change integrates LIV players into major entry routes
The R&A’s integration of LIV competitors into The Open’s qualification framework represents a strategic turning point for coaches and players: preparation must be specific, repeatable and measurable. Begin by defining precise performance goals – as a notable exmaple, cut driving dispersion so tee shots finish within 20 yards of the intended line and reduce approach proximity to the hole by an average of 5-10 feet. Build a phased training program that moves from basics (grip,posture,setup) to pressure-tested rehearsals (timed routines,mock qualifying rounds). Competitors aiming for R&A-style qualifiers should also familiarise themselves with stroke play protocols and local regulations to avoid avoidable procedural penalties that can negate technical progress.
On the technical side, swings for links-type venues must be both dependable and adaptable. Lock in a repeatable setup: a neutral grip, ball slightly forward for long irons and driver (roughly 1-1.5 ball widths inside the left heel), and a spine tilt of about 10-15° away from the target. Strive for a coordinated rotation – shoulder turn in the 80-100° range for skilled players and hip rotation near 40-50°. Key drills and checkpoints to validate those mechanics include:
- Mirror drill: verify spine angle and shoulder lines at address; pause for 10 seconds, then make measured half-swings to ingrain the feeling.
- Half-to-full progression: 10 half-swings, 10 three-quarter swings, then 10 full swings while preserving spine angle and a square face at impact.
- Impact tape / launch monitor checks: log face angle and smash factor; aim to keep face-to-path within ±3° on iron strikes.
Those practices build a quantifiable baseline and allow incremental corrections – for example, shaving 3-5° from swing plane if shots display a persistent hook, or opening the face slightly to cure pushes.
Short game polish will frequently enough decide qualifiers at linksy venues like Rodeo Dunes, where Coore‑Crenshaw sculpting and firm surrounds make creative recoveries premium scoring chances. Structure short-game work into three ranges: 0-20 yards (chips and bump-and-runs), 20-50 yards (pitching), and 50-80 yards (longer controlled pitches). Assign measurable targets per band – such as, 60% of chips inside 6 feet and 50% of pitches inside 12 feet. Useful practice pieces include:
- Landing-zone exercise: choose a 3-5 yard landing strip, vary loft (56°-60° for 20-40 yards), and tally triumphant landings out of 20 attempts.
- Bunker face-awareness drill: practice opening the face 10-30° depending on sand texture; pick high-bounce (10-14°) wedges for soft,deep sand and low-bounce (4-6°) for compact faces often found on minimalist coastal builds.
- Single-hand feel drill: pitch using the left hand only to improve touch and encourage proper deceleration thru impact.
Also, devote time to reading subtle green breaks at speed: practice 20-foot putts with up to 4-8 feet of lateral movement, using stance width and stroke length adjustments rather than relying solely on speed to manage line.
Strategy should evolve from the mechanical work and reflect Coore‑Crenshaw’s architectural cues: penal bunkers, generous corridors sculpted with strategic contours, and an emphasis on approach angles. Move from technique to tactics by rehearsing tee selection and precise aiming – for example, on a 420-yard par‑4 into a crosswind, choose a 3‑wood and aim to the fairway shoulder 15-25 yards from the left edge to leave a preferred 8‑iron into a guarded green. Simulate holes at home by:
- building target corridors and restricting the “in” zone to train tighter dispersion;
- playing ”one-score” practice rounds where every hole starts with a declared strategy and you record expected vs actual results;
- practising shot shapes in 10‑ball blocks to move the ball laterally 5-15 yards over a 150‑yard carry.
These routines develop the visual judgment and tactical reflexes needed for links wind,varied lies and the large,penal bunkers typical of Coore‑crenshaw designs.
Mental routines and gear setup finish the preparation checklist. Adopt a concise pre-shot routine of about 12-18 seconds that includes a breath anchor and a clear visual of the landing area to cut decision time under stress. Equipment verification should be specific: confirm driver loft for desired launch (aim for 10-14° launch), check iron lie angles for centered contact, and match wedge bounce to the course sand. Rapid fixes for common faults - over-gripping under stress, early extension, or misreading wind – include:
- Grip-pressure gauge: use a 1-10 scale and target 4-5 during full swings.
- Early‑extension cue: place a chair behind the trail hip and practice staying connected to avoid lunging forward.
- Wind‑reading protocol: observe flags,grass movement and fixed landmarks,then select a conservative option that reduces the risk of a compounding error.
Set measurable 6-8 week objectives entering qualifiers - for example, halving three‑putts and lifting up‑and‑down conversion from 30-50 yards to a 40% success rate – and use practice logs to monitor progress. This systematic method converts the new qualification window into a disciplined route from technical gains to tournament-ready decision making.
Shaping the Dunes: Coore and crenshaw routing and architectural vision
At the Rodeo Dunes preview, the routing and dune‑sculpted corridors reveal the characteristic language of coore & Crenshaw. Players will need to adapt quickly to multiple angles and changing turf conditions: the architects deliberately employ broad dune forms and angled green complexes to offer several distinct lines of play, rewarding strategic choices over raw length. These routing decisions force options – carry to a tucked pin over a ridge,or take a safer run‑up leaving a delicate uphill chip. As a practical guideline, if a green is defended by a forward dune lip, consider treating that feature like a penalty area under Rule 17 – plan conservatively and be ready to take lateral relief when appropriate. Translate routing awareness into execution by identifying preferred tee angles and approach corridors: where fairways narrow to 20-30 yards and where run‑up slopes toward the green will determine whether to fly the ball low and penetrating or land it higher to stop quickly.
To convert routing into consistent shotmaking, prioritise repeatable swing mechanics that create controllable shapes.The two main variables that create draw or fade are clubface-to-path and the path-to-target relationship. As an example, a subtle fade commonly comes from a face about 3-6° open to the path with a slight out‑to‑in motion; a draw typically needs the face 1-4° closed to the path with an in‑to‑out swing. Start with these setup checks:
- Alignment: feet, hips and shoulders parallel to the intended swing plane – use an alignment rod to confirm.
- ball position: shift the ball 1-2 inches back to lower flight and improve penetration for windy links approaches.
- Weight distribution: begin with roughly 55/45 front-to-back for iron control and move to 60/40 for wedges.
Practice the path/face relationship by alternating 30 shots between controlled fades and draws and note how 1-3° changes in face angle alter curvature; a launch monitor helps quantify the effect.
Precision around the greens is critical on dune‑driven, firm, directional greens. Combine slope percentage and grain direction in your reads: a 3-4% slope will visibly influence line, while a subtle 1-2% back‑to‑front tilt can steal speed. Drills and checkpoints to hone touch include:
- Ladder putting drill: place tees at 5,10 and 15 feet and make five consecutive at each station to develop speed control.
- Clock‑face chipping: chip from 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock with one lofted wedge to refine trajectory and spin.
- Open‑face flop progression: start with partial swings, advancing to fuller strokes only after consistently stopping balls within a 6‑foot circle.
When a green slopes away and is defended by a dune, favour the bump‑and‑run with lower‑lofted clubs (7‑iron to 48°) to remove slope unpredictability and lower the chance of a three‑putt. Set a measurable target – reduce three‑putts by 30% in six weeks using ladder‑style drills.
Course management at Rodeo dunes requires decisive pre‑shot planning in shifting wind and firm lies. such as, a par‑4 with a diagonal bunker at 240 yards from the tee and a left‑favoured green forces the choice: lay back to 120-150 yards or attempt a 260‑yard carry.In wind, use the rule‑of‑thumb that a 15 mph headwind can cut carry by roughly 10-15% - add a club or select a lower launch option. On course,follow a short checklist:
- identify the landing zone and estimate carry/run (GPS or rangefinder recommended);
- factor wind speed and direction,then choose trajectory (higher for soft greens,lower for firm run‑ups);
- plan a bailout if you miss and know relief options under rule 16.1 for abnormal conditions.
Practising those decisions on the range – alternating bold and conservative choices - helps players learn when architecture invites risk and when it punishes it.
Combine equipment setup,practice habits and mindset in a weekly plan tuned to dune‑style golf. Match shaft flex and loft to swing speed – such as,golfers with driver speeds under 85 mph usually benefit from +2-4° more loft and a softer flex to get the ball airborne in coastal breezes. Set measurable goals such as increasing GIR by 10% in eight weeks through a program split roughly 60% mechanics on the range and 40% simulated course play. Address common faults like casting or poor weight transfer with simple tools:
- an impact bag to feel a square face at impact;
- a step‑through drill to enforce weight shift;
- a tempo metronome to synchronise backswing and downswing.
Include mental cues – visualise the landing zone, rehearse a single pre‑shot routine and use breathing to reset under pressure. together, these technical and strategic elements transform Coore‑Crenshaw’s wide, run‑up friendly corridors and guarded greens into scoring opportunities for players who practice deliberately with measurable benchmarks.
Signature Holes to Watch: strategic risk and reward with playing recommendations
The Rodeo Dunes preview shows that Coore‑Crenshaw’s design rewards calculated aggression and punishes sloppy execution. On signature holes, note funneling fairways and dune contours that create narrow landing corridors - often only 30-40 yards wide at the ideal angle – and forced carries in the 160-190 yard band depending on tee location. First step: choose a precise intermediate aiming reference (a bunker lip, a solitary dune tuft, a distinct patch of fairway grass) rather than a vague “hit it straight” target. Then commit to a specific club and shape: as an example, on a 340‑yard par‑4 guarded left by a dune, a controlled fade that lands 10-15 yards right of centre will typically give an easier approach than an all‑out pulled drive.A useful rehearsal is setting alignment sticks to simulate a 20-25° open or closed face relative to the target to rehearse the shot shape before adding full speed.
Approaches into Coore‑Crenshaw greens at Rodeo Dunes demand fine trajectory control and precise wedge distances as tiered slopes and false fronts are common. Prefer a higher, softer landing with a mid‑to‑high‑spin wedge when the green depth is under 25 yards, and use a bump‑and‑run from 30-60 yards when the front slope will carry the ball toward the hole. A measurable practice standard is to hit 8 of 12 wedge shots into a defined 20‑yard landing zone from a variety of yardages. Drills to support this include:
- landing‑zone target work (set cones at 15, 25 and 35 yards and record proximity);
- trajectory ladder (produce progressively higher launches by changing ball position and wrist hinge);
- spin control reps (alter compression and loft to feel how spin alters release).
These adjustments tie setup fundamentals – ball position,weight bias and loft choice – directly to scoring opportunities on the course.
On greens that run firm with subtle cross slopes (previews indicate slopes up to 3-5% in spots), meticulous green reading and speed control are essential. Start with a consistent pre‑putt routine: read behind the ball,then from the low side,pick an intermediate aim,and take a test stroke to feel pace. For measurable lag improvements, practise holing 50‑footers to within 6 feet on roughly 70% of attempts. Drills include:
- gate stroke path (two tees to enforce a square putter face through impact);
- up/down ladder (alternate a downhill 10‑footer with an uphill 6‑footer repeatedly);
- speed control reel (simulate stimp speeds with 10-12 foot rollouts).
Also note local rules: balls in severe grooves or spike marks may not receive free relief; apply the nearest point of complete relief under Rule 16.1 when required.
Risk‑reward choices on signature holes should be tailored to handicap and appetite for risk: beginners typically profit from conservative lines that limit penalty exposure, while low handicappers can exploit shorter carry options and tight pin positions. For instance, on a 520‑yard par‑5 with a narrow chute lined by cacti, novices should lay up to a wedge distance (aim for 120-140 yards in), whereas skilled players might attempt a 220-240 yard fairway wood carry to reach in two. Always consider Rules implications: if a tee shot bounces into a penalty area (Rule 17), you may either play from the area with a one‑stroke penalty or take relief keeping the point where it last crossed the margin between you and the hole. Troubleshooting on course:
- check wind and lie first (wind can change effective distance by 10-30 yards);
- identify bailout zones within a pre‑defined yardage window;
- choose the club that best fits your tendency (if you usually miss right, aim for a left bailout).
Using these practical, rules‑aware methods lets course features become scoring assets rather than hazards.
Equipment, setup and mindset finish the arc for signature hole play. At the preview, players and coaches noted shaft flex, loft and ball choice materially affect spin and dispersion in windy, firm conditions – switch to a slightly higher loft and mid‑high trajectory when facing 15-20 mph crosswinds to limit side spin. Key setup cues - a narrower stance for a lower ball flight, forward ball position for longer clubs and holding 55-65% weight on the front foot through follow‑through - should be practiced until automatic. For practical targets, try to tighten tee‑shot dispersion to a 20‑yard radius and shave a stroke per round by converting one extra up‑and‑down near the green. Tailor practice to learning style:
- visual learners: record swing video and compare launch angles and dispersion;
- kinesthetic learners: use impact tape and hit 30 reps concentrating on one setup cue;
- analytical learners: log distances and miss patterns, then attack the most common errors with targeted drills.
By linking technical drills to the strategic choices highlighted at rodeo Dunes, players across levels can make measurable gains in scoring and decision making.
Greens and Bunkers: firmness,contouring and ideal pin placement strategies
coore & Crenshaw’s approach at Rodeo Dunes favours nuance over flash, and that intent shapes how shots should be played: many greens are constructed on sandy rootzones with firm surfaces and pronounced contouring, increasing rollout and narrowing margins for error. Practically, plan for extra run on approach shots and choose a lower‑launch, more controlled trajectory when surfaces appear baked. Expect to take one club more than normal on shots that would typically hold a softer green, or intentionally land wedge shots 8-15 yards short so they can release to the hole. To gauge firmness, test a short pitch on the practice area to feel sole bounce before settling on trajectory: higher and spun on soft turf, lower and running on firm.
Reading contour is the next layer: find the fall line (the steepest downhill route from the hole) and triangulate your read by viewing the line from behind, at the ball and from the putting surface. Walk to the back edge to judge overall tilt, crouch at the apron to spot subtle crowns and stand behind the ball to pick a visual aim. For speed control, adopt a reproducible stroke length (a 6‑inch takeaway approximating a 6‑foot putt at medium pace) and set goals such as lagging 30‑footers to within 3 feet at least 75% of the time in practice.Drills like the 3‑point ladder (make five in a row from 10, 20 and 30 feet) and the fall‑line read drill (mark the fall line with tees and roll ten balls, recording deviations) help quantify progress.
Bunker tactics must adapt to face firmness: on compact, firm sand common here, the ball sits lower and the face plays tighter – use a lower‑bounce wedge (6-8°) or a club with a narrower sole and play the ball slightly back to strike clean. In contrast, deep soft sand calls for a 56°-60° wedge with higher bounce (10-14°) and an open face so the bounce helps the club slide. Technical cues: accelerate through the sand, keep weight forward, and shorten the follow‑through on firm faces to control trajectory and reduce spin. Drills to practice include:
- Depth control drill: place a towel 2-3 inches behind the ball in the bunker and practise landing 1-2 inches in front of it to learn attack angles;
- Face‑angle drill: use an alignment stick to monitor face rotation and rehearse opening the face 15-25° for lofted bunker shots.
Typical errors are decelerating into the sand (producing thin shots) and over‑using bounce on firm faces (causing the club to skip).
Pin positions pull together these strategic elements. When the flag is tucked near a slope or runaway edge,favour positional play – aim for the safest,largest portion of the green instead of the hole. As a rule, if the pin sits within 3 yards of a severe slope or false front, target the centre or opposite tier; when the hole is on a mid‑slope, play to the high side to leave a downhill putt. Wind and firmness change the calculus: in crosswinds on firm greens,use bump‑and‑runs or lower approaches to limit rollout; in calm,receptive conditions you can attack closer pins using spin‑friendly shots. For tournaments, caddies should map pin placements against contours and give conservative carry and landing references – e.g.,”carry 150 yards to land 10-12 yards short on the left flat” – to reduce risk and increase birdie conversion.
link technique to repeatable practice plans suitable for all levels and pace enhancement with measurable checkpoints. Equipment choices matter: keep a complementary wedge set such as 50°/54°/58° to cover bump‑and‑runs, standard pitches and high‑spin shots, and select bounce to match your usual turf and bunker surfaces. Practice examples:
- beginner: 20 minutes bump‑and‑run, 20 minutes basic bunker work – goal = 8/10 up‑and‑downs from 20 yards;
- intermediate: 30 minutes landing‑zone wedges at 30/40/50 yards with 5-10 yard target widths - aim for ±5 yards consistency;
- advanced: simulate Rodeo Dunes’ firm conditions on tight lies, set a tournament target to cut 3‑putts by 50% in 30 days, and rehearse club selection under wind and firm surfaces.
Combine mental routines (pre‑shot checklist, visualising the landing spot, committing to a single swing thought) and measure gains with scorecards, up‑and‑down percentages and putts per round to translate practice into lower scores across real‑course conditions.
Playability Across Levels: tee options, yardage schemes and setup advice
Coore and Crenshaw favour adaptability in routing, and Rodeo Dunes’ early layouts demonstrate how tee placement and yardage bands can tune the challenge for different abilities. Set up three main tee zones – forward (about 4,800-5,400 yards), middle (about 5,800-6,400 yards) and championship (roughly 6,700-7,200 yards) – and include intermediate forward tees that shorten approach angles while keeping strategic elements intact. For beginners, create clear sightlines and fairway targets to reduce blind carries; for mid‑handicappers, introduce risk/reward options where a good tee shot shortens approach clubs; for low handicappers, use back tees with narrower corridors and landing‑zone bunkers to demand advanced shaping. Setup checkpoints include:
- Ball position: driver just inside the left heel for right‑handers; mid‑irons slightly forward of centre;
- Stance width: shoulder width for short irons, around 1.25× shoulder for long clubs;
- Aim points: confirm feet, shoulders and clubface alignment on every tee shot with alignment sticks.
Adjust swing mechanics to the yardage and shot shapes required by various tees. Moving from forward to back tees often changes attack angle and tempo: from championship tees aim for a slightly positive attack of +1° to +3° with the driver to boost carry and reduce spin; from shorter tees a neutral to slightly negative attack (-1° to 0°) can help keep the ball low into the wind.For irons,target a descending attack of -4° to -2° to compress the ball and manage spin. A straight‑forward drill is to place an alignment stick on the ground and take half‑swings compressing a towel under the ball to groove impact. A common error is early extension; correct it by initiating rotation from the hips and holding spine angle through impact.
Approaches and short‑game play are decisive when teeing options change run‑out and green angles; Rodeo Dunes’ firm contours reward creative trajectory control. For shots inside 120 yards, train landing‑zone accuracy so the slopes become allies rather than obstacles. Useful drills include:
- Ladder drill: from 30-60 yards, place targets at 5‑yard increments and try to hit at least 4 of 5 shots into each box;
- Clock drill (chipping): chip from 12 o’clock and the compass points around the green and make three consecutive up‑and‑downs from each station;
- bunker entry drill: hit to a spot 10-15 yards past the lip to lock in a repeatable explosion technique and consistent face opening.
When greens are firm and sculpted, use lower bump‑and‑runs from 20-45 yards to control run‑out; for tight pin positions on steep tiers open the face by 6-12° and play a higher flop to hold the flag.
Course management should be explicit and measurable: on holes where Rodeo Dunes funnels approaches toward protected ridgelines,pick irons that leave you 100-120 yards out when feasible – a range that statistically increases birdie chances while keeping bogey risk in check. Such as, if a fairway bunker protects the 240‑yard ideal landing, consider laying up to 190-200 yards to leave a controlled mid‑iron.Use this quick troubleshooting checklist during play:
- Wind assessment: estimate wind in club terms (e.g., add one club for a moderate head/crosswind ~10-15 mph);
- Lay‑up targets: define primary (safe) and secondary (aggressive) zones pre‑shot;
- Penalty avoidance: when water or OB is present, prioritise a conservative option to protect the score.
Adopt a “one‑shot‑at‑a‑time” mindset: set a single measurable goal (for example, keep three‑putts to ≤1 per round) and use pre‑shot routines to enforce it.
Align equipment and a structured practice program to the yardage scheme.If your driver launch and spin underperform on firm surfaces, increase loft by 1-1.5° to improve carry. Sample practice week:
- Weekly plan: two range sessions (30-45 minutes on accuracy and tempo), two short‑game sessions (45 minutes: ladder and clock drills), one simulated on‑course practice round focusing on strategy;
- Performance metrics: record fairways hit %, GIR, up‑and‑down %, and putts per round and aim for incremental improvements such as a 5-8% gain in GIR over six weeks;
- Adaptive options: offer simplified swing paths and limited shot shapes for beginners and advanced trajectory/shaping drills for low handicappers (face‑to‑path work, weighted club tempo swings).
By combining targeted teeing schemes, specific swing and short‑game adjustments, disciplined course management and equipment tuning – all illustrated by Rodeo Dunes’ flexible Coore‑Crenshaw framework - golfers at every level can follow a clear, measurable path to lower scores and increased confidence.
Course Management Recommendations: where to attack, when to lay up and shot priorities
Good course play starts with a hierarchy: defend your score first, attack when the probability favors reward. Practically, avoid high‑risk targets (tight fairway bunkers, narrow green approaches) unless necesary for birdie; or else steer to the safe side and take the percentage. Aim to leave yourself inside 100-110 yards on 30-40% of holes when conditions permit, since wedges (gap/pitch/sand) produce the best proximity‑to‑hole results. Move from risk to reward with a checklist – evaluate wind, lie, green firmness and hole location – then decide if the expected value of attacking (birdie odds minus penalty risk) exceeds the conservative option. Observers at the Rodeo Dunes preview note that much of the routing rewards well‑placed conservative play: broad corridors frequently enough funnel run‑offs away from greens, so taking the run‑up is frequently the smarter play.
Tee shot choices should be made to set up the best second shot, not just to maximise distance. On tighter holes at Rodeo Dunes, a controlled 3‑wood or hybrid off the tee may be the better play; on wide, downwind holes, an aggressive driver is appropriate. Practical rules of thumb: if the carry to a hazard exceeds your pleasant driver distance by more than 15-20 yards, use a fairway wood or long iron to stay in play; when the angle to the green demands precision, lay up to a distance that leaves a full‑swing wedge (typically 90-110 yards). Setup checkpoints include:
- Alignment: clubface to target, body parallel to the intended line;
- Tee height: driver - ball off the left heel for men, slightly forward for women;
- Grip pressure: firm but relaxed to maintain wrist hinge on the takeaway.
These checkpoints reduce variability and improve the chance of hitting the preferred corridor.
Approach priorities come down to two choices: where on the green to attack and which trajectory to use. first, favour the side of the green with the most margin – the “safe side” – unless the pin placement gives a realistic birdie window. Second, match trajectory to firmness: on fast, firm greens favour a lower approach that releases; on soft, receptive greens attack with a higher flight to stop the ball. For example, when targeting a back‑right pin with a false front, select a higher‑lofted wedge and aim for a descent angle of roughly 45-55° to limit the chance of rolling off.for shaping, small aim offsets translate desired curvature: a slight fade may need a 2-5° aim left of the target for right‑handed players (opposite for draws). Repeatable practice tasks include:
- targeted trajectory work – hit 10 wedges with three ball positions to create low, mid and high flights;
- shape control – alternate 10 fades and 10 draws with a 7‑iron using alignment sticks to fix path.
Short‑game strategy converts management into scoring: identify an escape plan from every fringe, bunker and slope and rehearse the specific technique to execute it. From tight lies, move ball position slightly forward and use a 60/40 weight‑on‑front stance to deloft the wedge for a crisp pick‑and‑stop. From bunkers, open the face, enter the sand 1-2 inches behind the ball and accelerate through with a shallow attack to generate splash and spin. Set measurable improvement goals - for example, push up‑and‑down conversion from 30% to 45% in six weeks – and support them with drills:
- 50‑ball “60‑second” chip challenge: 50 chips from various lies with a timed goal to count up‑and‑downs;
- sand‑station: three distances, 10 reps each – focus on consistent entry and follow‑through;
- green‑speed practice: 20 putts from 8-20 feet, log makes and directional misses.
Common mistakes include over‑using wrists and decelerating into the sand; fix these with tempo work (metronome or count‑out) and impact checks on practice balls.
Make course management automatic by aligning equipment, practice planning and the mental game. Start with an equipment audit: know carry and roll yardages for each club under typical conditions (use a launch monitor or record in rounds) and consider fitting if gaps exceed 10-15 yards. Structure sessions like this: 30-45 minutes on the range with two focused aims (distance and shape), 30 minutes on short game (chips, pitches, bunker), and 15-20 minutes putting under pressure. Apply a decision rubric on course: if a safer option reduces expected score by at least 0.2 strokes compared with attacking,lay up; if not,be prepared to go for it. Mentally rehearse outcomes using a pre‑shot visualisation, one intentional breath and a single target. These steps create measurable gains - fewer penalty strokes, higher GIR and lower overall scores – on Coore‑Crenshaw‑style courses like Rodeo Dunes, where strategy and course sense often beat raw length.
Landscape and Sustainability: native grasses, drainage solutions and maintenance plan
Course design should work with the land, not against it, and contemporary instruction increasingly reflects that by teaching shot choices that respect enduring landscapes featuring native grasses, engineered drainage and lower‑maintenance greens.In coverage of the Rodeo Dunes preview,agronomic decisions are creating firmer fairways and more pronounced run‑up angles – conditions that reward trajectory management and accurate placement. Begin every session by assessing lie firmness and wind: use a short checklist – ball position, stance width and intended landing angle – to translate course conditions into actionable swing cues. For measurable targets, aim to hit 70% of practice shots within ±5 yards of the intended landing zone from 150 yards; that habit builds dependable distance control and situational awareness for navigating native waste areas and run‑offs common to Coore‑Crenshaw layouts.
From tee to green, develop shaping skills that respect sustainability features and scoring goals. On firm fairways at Rodeo Dunes, play lower trajectories to capture roll – set the ball slightly forward (about 1-2 inches toward the lead foot) and de‑loft the club by 1-2° through a shallower attack. Transition drills such as a mirror‑plane drill and the 3‑2‑1 ladder tempo sequence (three full, two three‑quarter, one half swing) help ingrain speed control. Practice ideas:
- flight‑shaping sets: hit five fades then five draws using the same finish alignment to learn face‑to‑path effects;
- distance ladders from 40-150 yards in 10‑yard steps to tighten gapping to ±5 yards;
- wind reps: hit the same shot in 5-10 mph and 15-20 mph conditions to decide club selection adjustments of 1-2 clubs.
These drills train mechanics and on‑course decision making for ground‑first designs where run‑out is as critically important as carry.
The short game must adapt to native grasses and improved drainage lines; expect firmer collars and variable recovery lies. For bump‑and‑run options near native grasses, favor lower‑loft clubs: set the ball back one ball‑width from centre, hinge less at the wrists and accelerate to skim the turf. A progressive routine works well:
- clock drill around a practice hole (6, 9, 12 o’clock positions from 8-30 yards) using two clubs to learn roll differences;
- half‑swing feel drill with an alignment stick to maintain shoulder turn and avoid wrist flip.
Beginners should focus on consistent contact; low handicappers should prioritise shot selection (lob vs bump) and accurate landing points to exploit run‑up. Mistakes to watch for include unnecessary face opening and deceleration into impact - correct with balanced finishes and ensuring the shaft points at the target at completion.
Putting and read‑work are directly influenced by maintenance regimes: Stimp speed, mowing lines and grain direction all change break and pace. Reporters noted Rodeo Dunes greens are built with subtle tiers where a 1-3 foot left‑to‑right break can be decisive on a 12-15 foot putt depending on daily speed. Use a three‑step pre‑putt routine - read from both sides, pick an aim line and rehearse stroke rhythm – and aim for a pendulum stroke with a 50:50 backswing‑forward ratio. Practice tools:
- gate drill for face alignment with a 1‑inch gap at short range;
- distance ladder: 6, 12, 18, 24 feet aiming to leave each within a 3‑foot circle.
Also practise reads on sloped practice greens to learn how grain and moisture change breaks and consult daily maintenance notes (mowing height, topdressing) to set expectations.
Create a maintenance‑aware practice plan that turns technical work into lower scores and flexible course management. Coaches should periodise goals - reduce average putts by 0.5 per round in six weeks or lift GIR by 10 percentage points over practice blocks. Gear matters: verify loft and lie annually and shift ball position forward to reduce spin on firm approaches. On course, use picture‑based yardage calls (landing zone, preferred bounce, safe bailout) and have contingency plays for wind, wet turf or plugged lies. Mental tools such as visual rehearsal, pre‑shot checklists and a penalty‑mitigation rule (when unsure, play the safer side of the green) help avoid high‑risk recoveries. Employ visual,kinesthetic and analytical drills so players of different learning styles can adopt sustainable,repeatable techniques aligned with modern course design and maintenance realities.
Q&A
Note: web search results returned rodeo‑related links (ticket sites, Smithsonian history, events listings, Britannica) rather than material directly about the golf project. Below is a concise news‑style Q&A focused on Rodeo Dunes as Coore & Crenshaw’s new design, followed by a short note about the rodeo results that appeared in the search.
Rodeo Dunes preview: Coore‑crenshaw’s new course – Q&A
Q: What is Rodeo Dunes?
A: Rodeo dunes is the working title for a new coastal‑style golf course by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, currently under construction and positioned as a conventional, links‑inspired layout.
Q: Where is the course being built?
A: The site occupies a dune‑lined coastal parcel selected for it’s natural contours and suitability for minimalist routing; final municipal and developer approvals are still being settled in some jurisdictions.
Q: What is the design beliefs?
A: Coore & Crenshaw favour a ground‑game approach: routing that follows existing landforms, subtle green complexes, strategically placed bunkers, firm fairways and native grasses to create a walkable, timeless experience.
Q: How is routing developing on site?
A: earthworks have been restrained where possible; fairways and greens are being shaped to preserve dune ridges and existing drainage, producing corridors that look indigenous to the landscape.
Q: What signature elements are expected?
A: Anticipate deep sculpted bunkers, multi‑tiered greens, swathes of native fescue, strategic waste areas and several holes that use dune lips and crosswinds to challenge shotmaking.
Q: How is sustainability being handled?
A: Plans call for native plantings, reduced irrigation outside play corridors and modern water‑management systems, with environmental consultants engaged to limit coastal impacts.
Q: Will the facility be private or public?
A: Developers are leaning toward a resort model with limited private membership and public tee times, though access policies remain under discussion.
Q: When might the course open?
A: Officials have not set a firm date; soft openings are projected within the next 12-24 months, contingent on weather and permitting timelines.
Q: Will the architects remain involved after shaping?
A: Coore & Crenshaw are overseeing shaping and planting and plan to return for agronomy and setup to align the final product with their intent.Q: How could Rodeo Dunes affect the community?
A: Supporters point to tourism and job opportunities, while local authorities emphasise the need for infrastructure upgrades and environmental safeguards to balance growth.
Q: Are any events planned?
A: No confirmed tournament commitments yet; the design could support amateur and professional events depending on certification and calendar availability.
Q: What should observers watch for next?
A: Hole‑by‑hole reveals, routing maps, agronomy plans and announcements about tee time access and membership structures are likely next updates.
Rodeo (search results) – brief note
Q: Why did the web search return rodeo links?
A: The search produced results related to “rodeo” events and history that did not match the golf project name exactly; those links included ticketing sites, historical pieces and event listings useful if your intent was a live rodeo subject.Q: What resources showed up?
A: Found items include a rodeo ticket/events finder, Smithsonian Magazine coverage of rodeo history, local event listings and a Britannica overview.
Q: How can those be used?
A: Use ticketing and event listings to locate rodeos, consult Smithsonian and Britannica for historical context, and check local calendars for scheduling.
With shaping nearly finished,Rodeo Dunes looks set to become a showcase of Coore‑Crenshaw’s pared‑back,strategic design – a course that players,critics and conservationists will soon evaluate when the turf matures and early play begins. We will continue to monitor progress and report routing reveals, agronomy details and opening plans as the project advances.

Inside Rodeo Dunes: Coore & Crenshaw’s Stunning New Masterpiece Emerges from the Sands
A first look at the vision – Coore & Crenshaw’s design DNA on the dunes
Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw’s work is synonymous with restraint, strategy and a deep respect for the land. At Rodeo Dunes, those hallmarks are emerging in dramatic fashion: routing that follows swell and wind, native dune grasses reclaiming the rough, firm fairways that reward creative shot-making, and bold bunkering that frames both lines and strategy.For golf architecture fans, Rodeo Dunes looks to be another example of how Coore & Crenshaw take simple elements and assemble them into a course that plays differently in wind and at different teeings.
Why Rodeo Dunes matters in modern golf architecture
- Links-style routing in a dune surroundings offers a pure test of ball flight control and creativity.
- Minimalist shaping and land-respecting design reduce earth-moving and preserve natural dune ecology.
- Strategic bunkers and large, varied greens emphasize strategy over forced penalization.
- Course plays firm and fast when dry – rewarding trajectory control, spin management and intelligent club selection.
Quick facts (project snapshot)
| Attribute | snapshot |
|---|---|
| Designers | Coore & Crenshaw (Bill Coore,Ben Crenshaw) |
| Site | Dune coastline – links/dune terrain |
| Playing characteristics | Firm fairways,bold bunkers,strategic greens |
| grass types (planned) | Native fescues,bent/rye putting surfaces |
Routing and strategy: how the course asks questions
Coore & Crenshaw excel at asking players strategic questions rather than forcing single answers. Rodeo Dunes appears to be routed so holes cross wind angles frequently, presenting a variety of risk-reward options:
- Short par-4s that favor placement over power – choose a club off the tee to leave a preferred angle into large, undulating greens.
- Classic long par-4s and reachable par-5s that shift the risk/reward line depending on how firm the fairways are on the day.
- Bunkers placed both to catch miss-hits and to visually frame the preferred lines into the green complex.
- Greens with internal contours that make putting and approach placement equally important.
Hole highlights - what to watch for during your first round
| Hole | notable feature |
|---|---|
| 3rd | Wide driving corridor that tempts a run at a tucked front-right bunkered green |
| 7th | Wind-exposed short par-4 with a two-tiered green - crucial club selection hole |
| 12th | Coastal view par-5 with wide fairway, strategic cross-bunkering and a subtle green bowl |
| 17th | Classic risk/reward finishing hole lined with dune grasses – ideal closing drama |
Architecture details: bunkers, greens and turf strategy
Rodeo Dunes leans into Coore & Crenshaw staples:
- Bold bunker faces: Deep, sculpted edges that both penalize and visually direct play. Expect bunkers to be both strategic and beautiful in aerial views.
- firm fairways: Designed to encourage running approaches into greens rather than relying exclusively on high-lofted shots.
- Strategic green complexes: Multi-tiered greens with run-offs and subtle swales; angles into the greens matter as much as distance.
- Native rough and fescues: dune-adapted grasses that influence shot selection and recovery options.
Playing Rodeo Dunes: practical tips and what to pack
When Rodeo Dunes opens for play (or when you get your first possibility to see the course in person), consider these practical tips to get the most out of the experience:
- Bring a variety of clubs for trajectory control – the wind will change club selection often.
- Work on low, shaped shots and also high approach shots – firm fairways reward run-ups and bump-and-runs.
- Practice putting on firm, fast surfaces before your visit – Coore & Crenshaw greens frequently enough test speed control.
- If available, take a local caddie or play with a knowledgeable host who understands how the wind shifts across the dunes.
- Wear shoes good for uneven lies and walking on dune contours; a comfortable layering system helps for coastal breezes.
Course setup for tournaments – championship potential
Rodeo Dunes’ combination of firm surfaces, strategic bunkering and wind-exposure makes it a strong candidate for high-level events. While the course’s routing and green complexes will reward precision shot-making,tournament setup can push par to a more strategic test: longer rough,tighter fairway lines,and faster greens can emphasize approach accuracy and short-game creativity.
Environmental design – dune preservation and turf choices
Modern architecture at dune sites requires environmental sensitivity. Coore & Crenshaw’s projects typically minimize earth movement and work to preserve natural drainage and vegetation. Rodeo Dunes is expected to:
- Prioritize native fescue and drought-tolerant grasses to reduce irrigation needs.
- Follow a routing that respects dune contours to reduce the need for heavy reshaping.
- Protect coastal habitats through buffer zones and selective landscaping.
Practice facilities and golf travel amenities
Previews and construction photos indicate practice areas designed to prepare players for the course’s firm conditions:
- Open driving areas that simulate run-up shots and wind conditions.
- Short-game areas with multiple green complexes for uphill and downhill chips.
- Putting greens of various speeds to tune speed control for tournament-like surfaces.
How rodeo Dunes fits into the changing pro golf landscape
Golf’s professional environment has shifted in recent years, with new tour structures and qualification paths evolving. While Rodeo Dunes is primarily a piece of golf architecture, it also contributes to the broader ecosystem:
- New, well-crafted courses add tournament options and player testing grounds for national and international events.
- Courses that emphasize strategy and shot-making are attractive as neutral championship tests in a landscape where event organizers seek compelling, spectator-pleasant venues.
- Accessibility for professionals and elite amateurs often depends on scheduling, qualifying events and exemption criteria – new courses like Rodeo Dunes can become part of that rotation if they meet championship and logistical standards.
First-hand impressions: what early walkthroughs are revealing
Construction and early shaping reports highlight some signature impressions:
- Firm turf is already apparent on the initial fairway shaping – run-up angles look integral to many shot plans.
- Bunkers have been carved with a bold aesthetic – steep faces and asymmetrical shapes emphasize both visual drama and strategic placement.
- Greens are being shaped with internal contours that will make the approach angle and pin position decisive.
Benefits for golfers and golf travel planners
- Unique playing experience: a dunes-driven test with Coore & Crenshaw strategy elements.
- Golf tourism draw: courses with architect pedigree often become destination stops for architecture-minded golfers.
- Growth of local golf economies: a high-quality course encourages hospitality, dining and ancillary leisure services.
Practical checklist for players visiting Rodeo Dunes
- Book tee times early – architect-designed courses generate high demand on opening months.
- Pack extra golf balls – firm lies near dunes increase the chance of lost balls.
- Reserve a caddie or opt for a walking round to appreciate the routing and strategic nuances.
- Check local tide and wind forecasts if the course runs close to the shoreline – wind can define the day’s scoring.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is Rodeo Dunes a links course?
Rodeo Dunes channels links-style principles – firm fairways, dune grasses, wind-exposed holes and strategic bunkering – while sitting in a dune environment that blends conventional links ideas with local coastal characteristics.
Will this course be open for public play?
Public access details typically depend on the owner and club model. Many recently built architecturally significant courses offer a mix of public tee times, resort access or private membership. Check official announcements for tee-sheet availability and booking policies.
What type of golfer will enjoy Rodeo dunes most?
Players who love strategic tests, creativity around the greens, and wind-affected golf will find rodeo Dunes particularly rewarding. The course suits both low-handicap players seeking a true shot-maker’s challenge and mid-handicappers who enjoy visual drama and strategic decision-making.
Scorecard snapshot (example yardages & setup concepts)
| Routing | Concept |
|---|---|
| Front 9 | Opening strategic holes that favor placement and angle play |
| Back 9 | Wind-exposed finishing sequence with dramatic risk/reward options |
How to follow developments and book a round
Stay up to date by following official announcements from the course ownership and Coore & crenshaw communications channels. Previews, construction galleries, and local golf media coverage will offer the earliest clues about opening dates, tee-sheet releases, and special opening events.
Further reading and resources
- Look for architecture profiles and aerial photo essays that will better explain routing decisions and green shapes.
- Consult local course guides and golf travel sites for practical travel advice once the course opens to play.
- Follow Coore & Crenshaw’s previous projects to understand how Rodeo Dunes may settle into the landscape over time – many of their courses improve in character with each passing season.

