Designed
by “The King” Arnold Palmer, The Legend Golf Course at Shanty Creek Resorts in
Bellaire helped launch Northern Michigan as a legitimate golf destination in
the mid-1980s. Accolades earned included being named among the “Top 50 Resort
Courses in the Nation” and The Legend remains ranked among the top courses in
Michigan with a 4½ stars rating by Golf Digest. It has also earned the
distinction of being named the 2014 Golf Course of the Year by the Michigan
Golf Course Owners Association.
“We
are thrilled and honored to be selected and proud of our staff and management,”
Pete Bigford, the general manager, said.
The
Legend has hosted several tournaments including the prestigious Michigan PGA
Championship. For guests of Shanty Creek, The Legend is half of the outstanding
one-two punch with Cedar River Golf Course that has become a bucket list golf
destination.
“With
a long list of accomplishments, along with community contributions and
exceptional management, the beautiful northern Michigan property was an easy
choice,” MGCOA Executive Director Kate Moore said. “The golf course exemplifies
what the consumer of golf in our state is looking for: exceptional service,
quality golf course, reasonable rates in a friendly atmosphere.”
Under
the direction of Director of Golf and PGA Professional Brian Kautz, Shanty
Creek Resorts continues to deliver on its promise to promote the game and
establish “Grow the Game” initiatives to make golf more approachable and easier
for beginners and less experienced players. The Legend’s head superintendent
Mike Richards follows the mission of the Michigan Turfgrass Environmental
Stewardship Program: to advance the environmental stewardship of Michigan’s
golf industry, including fish and wildlife habitat, indigenous vegetation, and
protect water resources with buffer zones on golf course properties.
“Once
you play it, you will find yourself wanting to return again,” Moore said.
“Shanty Creek has a long heritage of providing quality golf at affordable pricing
with great hospitality.”
The
property will be recognized at the Michigan Golf Business Conference and Vendor
Fair, Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the Soaring Eagle Resort in Mount Pleasant.
