Since the first edition in 1983, the Skins Game has undergone a long list of changes. Different players. Various sponsors. Various broadcast networks. The locations have also changed. Born in Arizona before moving to the California desert, the event, which was last held in 2008, has now moved again. For Friday morning’s competition (yes, Friday morning! 9am EST) featuring Xander Schauffele, Tommy Fleetwood, Keegan Bradley and Shane Lowry, the backdrop will be Panther National, a new-faced club in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Chances are you’re familiar with the players. Here’s what you need to know about the club.
It’s a newcomer
A relatively new kid on the block, Panther National opened in 2023 as part of a larger residential development that is still rolling out amenities. The club bills itself as the first golf development in Palm Beach County in nearly 20 years.
It is a collaboration with big names
The course is a Jack Nicklaus Signature design, created in collaboration with two-time major champion Justin Thomas. Thomas’ favorite hole is the par-3 8th, which he likes for its attractive green complex.
It is a flexible design
From bite-sized to beastly, the layout can range from 4,500 yards to 8,000 yards, with water in play on several holes and significantly more elevation change than what you’ll find on most South Florida courses.
It has deceptive training grounds
Practice doesn’t make it perfect, but it does make you better. And there are plenty of options for that here. The club’s extensive layout includes short-game areas, an expansive putting course, target greens set to average PGA Tour distances and a range with a 27-metre wide US Open fairway running through it. There is also a practice tee reserved for Thomas when he is in the area.
It will work your wedge game
Short courses are common at top developments these days, and Panther National is no exception. Complementing the championship course, the club has a par-3 layout, PANTHER9, with an island green inspired by the 17th at TPC Sawgrass.
It has a hefty price tag and powerful members
The initiation fee is $500,000 for non-residents and $400,000 for residents. Homes at the club are listed from $3.5 million to $20 million. Members include a mix of professional athletes, with representation from teams like the Phillies, Jets and Avalanche – plus a few NHL Hall of Famers you may have heard of: Joe Sakic and Claude Lemieux. The club has also assembled a tour-heavy roster of ambassadors, highlighted by Justin Thomas, Xander Schauffele, Cameron Young, Viktor Hovland, Nick Dunlap, Sahith Theegala, Lexi Thompson, Camilo Villegas and Morgan Hoffmann.
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