Facility Update
THE (KIDD) GLOVES COME OFF
Anticipation is Building at Gamble Sands with Second Course on Schedule for a 2025 Opening
Report by Andrew Penner
Parading high atop arid sage-peppered bluffs above the Columbia River in Northern Washington, the original David McLay Kidd course at Gamble Sands certainly scores high on the “wow-o-meter.” Golfers love the stunning views, the playability, and the relatively subtle and subdued architectural touches. It’s a bonafide jaw-dropper.
Kidd’s upcoming second course? It’s currently well into construction with many holes already shaped. Expect a similar story here. According to the architect, the drama is going to reach a whole new level.
“The site itself has much more elevation change and eye-popping natural features,” he says. “The views are also going to be phenomenal.”
In terms of standout holes, Kidd’s guess is as good as yours. “We keep finding new features to incorporate,” he says. “The holes we thought would be weaker are looking like they’ll actually be the strongest. And the strongest holes, well, they’re still strong! It’s been exciting, to say the least.”
Unquestionably, an early candidate for the “signature” hole will be the short par-3 11th. It will soar high on the aerie ridgeline and the slender green will feature 100-foot drops on both sides. “You won’t want to miss it there,” says Kidd. “That could wreck your day.”
Well, maybe put a little wrinkle in it might be a better way to put it. After all, this is Gamble Sands we’re talking about, one of the finest golf resorts in the entire Pacific Northwest.
