The Omni La Costa Resort is experiencing a rebirth with its newly redesigned North Course, formerly known as Champions. Collaborating with Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner, the resort unveiled the redesigned course in May during the NCAA Division 1 Golf Championships. With support from Omni Hotels and the University of Texas, the goal is for Omni La Costa to become a permanent championship host for college golf, similar to Omaha’s role in the College World Series.
Dustin Irwin, the Club Director at Omni La Costa, is excited about the potential of the resort becoming a premiere destination for college golf. The feedback from the NCAA Division 1 Golf Championships has been positive, with players having an amazing experience. The resort’s history of hosting the Tournament of Champions from 1969-1998 adds to its allure, with winners including golf legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods.
Hanse and Wagner’s redesign of the North Course focused on creating a challenging yet playable layout for both college players and members. The fairway corridors were widened, bunkers removed, and closely mown green surrounds introduced to enhance the overall playing experience. Features like a barranca and varying tee options further add to the course’s diversity and challenge.
Architect Beau Welling transformed the resort’s practice facilities into a world-class training area, with purposeful short-game areas and improved amenities. The entire resort, including 600 rooms and the spa, has undergone renovations to provide guests with a refreshed and luxurious experience. This revitalization aligns with Omni Golf’s commitment to offering exceptional golf experiences at their properties across the country.
In addition to Omni La Costa, Omni Hotels & Resorts recently launched The Generation Cup, a family-focused golf tournament scheduled at 12 of its golf properties. The event aims to promote camaraderie among golfing families and celebrate the surge of interest in the sport. The format includes two-person teams separated by at least a generation, competing in a modified best-ball “shamble.”
Spencer Cody, Corporate Director of Club and Golf Operations for Omni Hotels and Resorts, believes that playing golf with loved ones is a special way to celebrate the game. The top teams from each division of the Generation Cup will advance to the National Championship at Omni PGA Frisco in May 2025. This initiative showcases Omni Hotels & Resorts’ dedication to creating memorable golf experiences and fostering a sense of community within the golfing world.