Although the original layout is still intact , the addition of fluid movement to the fairways , additional distinctive white sand bunkers , brilliant water features , and diverse putting surfaces present a modern contrast that has made Shangri-La the golf destination of the region . The layout of the Legends Nine provides the perfect complement to the magnificent lake views visible from all points on the golf course . With five sets of tees , the golf course will be set up daily to offer all levels of golfers the challenge that suits their game .
“ The Mickey Mantle Hole # 9 ” is the signature hole at Shangri-La . The downhill par five will more than likely be the finishing hole of your round . And you will definitely have some serious decisions to make in order to finish strong . With two green complexes separated by a dramatic and spectacular waterfall feature , the first decision is whether to play to the treacherous island green or to the second green complex that adds an additional 70 yards to the hole . The local rule is for the person holding the honor to select which green to play . No matter which green is chosen , your tee shot will require some serious thought .
The Heritage Course at Shangri-La reopened in May 2013 , and now includes dramatic changes . Architect Tom Clark transformed it into a modern classic . ( Photo contributed )
green unless your confidence is high . Coming up short and left of the green will funnel your shot back into the pond . A properly executed layup shot will leave a final approach from 50 to 100 yards . Just be sure to make your ball come to rest on the correct side of the hole , or a three-putt may be imminent .
The Battlefield , an 18-hole full-length par 3 course , is the newest addition at Shangri-La Resort on Grand Lake O ’ The Cherokees in northeastern Oklahoma . It officially opened in August 2023 and provides one of the nation ’ s most unique full-length par 3 golf course experiences .
The Heritage Nine reopened in May 2013 , and with its reopening , the 18-hole course renovation project at Shangri-La was complete . What started out as a much-needed facelift turned into a total reconstruction of the entire facility . Following a three-year renovation project , the former Old Blue Course at Shangri-La now includes dramatic changes to the new Heritage Nine . Architect Tom Clark has transformed it into a modern classic .
The new par 36 Championship Nine combines the challenge of water , bunkers , and fairway movement with a series of equally challenging undulating greens . With dramatic water features , spectacular views of Grand Lake O ’ The Cherokees , and vast white sand bunkers , the Champions Nine always provides a fun day on a spectacular course .
Hole 1 on the Champions Nine , a par 5 , starts your round at Shangri-La with an easy hole , one that provides a smooth transition from the driving range to the first tee . However , be careful , one errant shot can cost you several strokes on your scorecard . Although # 1 is not unusually long , it plays into the prevailing wind . The large fairway bunker in the driver landing area protects the go-zone on the right side of this reachable par 5 . With large trees lining the left side of the approach shot , hitting your tee shot down that direction will force you to lay up every time . Don ’ t be tempted to carry the pond protecting the left side of the
The new Battlefield 18-hole full-length par 3 course is not your typical par 3 course . The terrain is rugged — like a World War II battlefield set in a wooded area with dramatic elevation changes . You ’ ll use every club in the bag . ( Photo contributed )
At first glance , the par-3 2nd hole looks straightforward . The beautiful view of Grand Lake can be a major distraction as you stand on the tee , but stay focused and judge the wind properly , or you may end up shortsiding yourself left of the green . The lake on the right doesn ’ t look to be in play from the tee , but when playing away from the large bunker left of the green , take care not to hang your shot too far to the right , or you may end up wet .
The course is not your typical par 3 course . The terrain is rugged — like a World War II battlefield set in a wooded area with dramatic elevation changes . The facility has its own clubhouse , turn-house concessions , and golf carts . It also has a short warm-up facility and an expansive practice putting green . The full practice facility and driving range remain adjacent to the main Shangri-La clubhouse .
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