Jim Nantz, the face of CBS Sports for over three decades, is living his boyhood dream. His college friend, Mark Haugejorde, is also achieving his dream by building Tepetonka Golf Club in New London, Minnesota. Nantz has been a supportive friend to Haugejorde, believing in his vision for the golf club. The two friends first met in 1977 when Haugejorde was a senior and Nantz was a freshman on the University of Houston golf team. Their friendship has continued over the years, and Nantz has been instrumental in helping Haugejorde bring his dream to life.
Haugejorde’s dream of creating a golf club in his home state of Minnesota began to take shape after a chance encounter with a piece of land while driving his mother to a golf course. After acquiring the land, Haugejorde consulted with renowned course designers from OCM in Melbourne, Australia, who saw the potential in the property. The construction of Tepetonka Golf Club began, with the designers praising the natural beauty of the land and the ideal routing for the course.
Nantz, being a golf enthusiast himself, was drawn to Haugejorde’s project and decided to get more involved. He purchased a founding membership at Tepetonka and will also be assisting in the design of Hog Heaven, the club’s short course. Nantz has always had a passion for golf course architecture and is excited to help shape the Earth and create a unique golfing experience at Tepetonka.
With construction expected to be completed by the end of 2024, Tepetonka Golf Club is set to open its doors in spring 2026. Nantz envisions a special experience for members and guests at the club, including a downhill one-shotter at Hog Heaven where players can leave their mark on The Rock of Fame. This area will serve as a gathering place for golfers to come together and share in the excitement of the game.
Nantz’s involvement in Tepetonka Golf Club is a testament to the enduring friendship between him and Haugejorde. The two friends, who first met on the golf course 47 years ago, are now working together to bring their dreams to fruition. With Nantz’s support and guidance, Haugejorde’s vision for a private golf destination in Minnesota is becoming a reality, and Tepetonka is shaping up to be a premier golfing destination for enthusiasts from around the country and the world.
