The Buzz: “The DW,” as locals know it, has experienced a resurgence since undergoing a renovation project in 2007, which dramatically improved conditions, turning it into one of the state’s more popular municipal courses. The front nine, built in 1978, was the first design of project of Gary Panks, who has become one of Arizona’s most successful course architects, and the back nine was added in 1988 under the direction of Arthur “Jack” Snyder, who fits that same description. As a result, the two nines have a somewhat different feel with the front being a straightforward, parkland layout and the back being more of a risk-reward experience with par-5s that are reachable in two shots if you dare. Combined, they play to par-72 at 6,651 yards from the back tees on a relatively flat, open course with greens that are contoured, fast, well-bunkered and well-conditioned. The renovation project included a new irrigation system, pump stations and grooming equipment, which have made a significant difference and that, along with a friendly atmosphere and affordable green fees, give “The DW” plenty of appeal. “It has made a big difference, but I think the thing that our golfers really enjoy is the interaction with the staff and with fellow golfers,” golf director Bob Bauer said. “It really is a friendly atmosphere that everyone notices within a few minutes after they walk in. It’s more like the experience of 40 or 50 years ago at a little public course back in the Midwest.”
The course offers some scenic mountain views and nice water features that come into play on five holes. There are two very good par-3 holes, the sixth at 163 yards and the 14th at 219, where one of those water hazards adds to the challenge. The finish also is strong with two dogleg holes, both at 400 yards. The 18th is a classic risk-reward hole, where you can cut the corner, leaving a wedge shot to the green (provided that you can avoid the rugged desert transition area) or you can take a more conservative path, leaving a mid-iron approach shot.
The course is located within the substantial Dave White Regional Park, which also offers a jogging trail, fitness course, fishing lake, children’s play area, four ramadas, barbecue grills, picnic tables, lighted tennis and racquetball courts, lighted sand and grass volleyball courts, a basketball court and open space area. Casa Grande, named after the nearby Hohokam Indian Ruins, is the largest city in Pinal County, about halfway between Phoenix and Tucson, and there is plenty of dining and lodging nearby. Those Hohokam ruins, by the way, are well worth a visit if you have the time. The more adventuresome might want to check out “The Domes,” which are further down Thornton Road, where it takes on a washboard surface in a remote area. The Domes are a conglomeration of kiva-like buildings, including one that looks like a flying saucer, originally built as an electronics assembly plant that never opened. It is widely rumored to be haunted and people have reported seeing a “shadowy figure” moving from dome to dome. There also are reports of whispering, strange vibrations and tapping noises on visitors’ cars. Some say the domes are used in black magic, resulting in unsavory activity. Others think it is simply a respite for transients, looking for a place to sleep and trying to remain inconspicuous. Enter cautiously, and you might want to keep a 9-iron handy.