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The Era of Global Boiling and What it Means for Golf in Arizona

Exploring the Challenges and Adaptations for Arizona Golf Courses Amid Unprecedented Heat

Author

Terence Daniels
August 27, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

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The Era of Global Boiling and What it Means for Golf in Arizona

Scottsdale National

Changing Climate

It’s official: the term “global warming” is outdated. Scientists are now calling it “global boiling.” July 2023 was the hottest month ever recorded on Earth, and the impact is hitting Arizona hard.

Average summer temperatures in Phoenix have soared to 110°F, with over 90 consecutive days of triple-digit heat. According to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, this extreme heat has caused water levels in reservoirs like Lake Mead to drop to historic lows, directly affecting irrigation and course maintenance for golf clubs statewide.

Impact on Arizona Golf

With these rising temperatures, golf courses in Arizona face unprecedented challenges. The USGA reports that golf courses require 2.5 times more water to maintain greens in extreme heat, a problem for Arizona.

Many courses are shifting to drought-resistant turf, reducing fairway sizes, or closing down during peak summer months. The Sonoran Desert, home to world-class courses like TPC Scottsdale, is seeing an uptick in “heat stress” on both turf and players. Courses are adjusting tee times to early mornings and late evenings, but even that might not be enough if trends continue.

What’s Next?

Adapting to global boiling isn’t just about staying cool but sustaining the game we love. Arizona’s golf community leads with innovations like intelligent irrigation systems, solar-powered carts, and heat-reflective clothing.

Some courses, like Papago Golf Club, experimented with more shaded areas and “cool zones” to protect golfers and staff. But there’s more to do. Golf in Arizona must rethink course design, player habits, and tournament schedules to keep the game thriving in these scorching conditions.

Final Thoughts

The era of global boiling is here, and its impact on golf in Arizona is undeniable. While the challenges are significant, so are the opportunities to innovate and lead. Let’s embrace the changes and ensure the game adapts for future generations.

2024 Overseed Schedule

Arizona golfers know summer is best to take advantage of those wallet-friendly green fees. The only catch? Surviving the sweltering heat. But don't sweat it—literally. With some prep, you can enjoy a great round and still make it to happy hour.

Playing before 7 a.m. saves you from the worst of the sun and gives you the smoothest greens. Bring a cooler with ice-cold towels and plenty of water, and hydrate like it’s your job. Trust me, your game will thank you.

Remember that Fall overseeding is just around the corner, meaning course closures and green fees are rising. So, if you want to squeeze in a few rounds without breaking the bank, now’s your chance. After all, there's no better feeling than walking off 18 knowing you played a championship course for half the usual price.

How do you keep cool while golfing in Arizona’s summer heat?

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Creator Classic

Creator Classic

The Creator Classic, sponsored by Blackstone, will occur at East Lake Golf Club on August 28, the day before the TOUR Championship. Sixteen golf content creators will compete in a unique format featuring eight holes of gross stroke play, followed by a playoff for the top four finishers.

The event will be streamed live on various platforms, including YouTube, Peacock, and ESPN+. Produced with top-tier broadcast quality, it promises exciting coverage and player-generated content and is open to TOUR Championship Wednesday ticket holders.

Read more at PGA Tour

Developing a Scratch Attitude for Better Golf

Ready to Level Up?

If you’re serious about improving your scores and developing the mental edge that separates scratch golfers, check out my new eBook: Developing a Scratch Attitude for Better Golf. Packed with insights on building winning habits, innovative practice strategies, and mastering the mental game, my 8-week email course will help you play your best golf every time you step on the course.

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To read more about my journey and why I started this newsletter, check out last week’s issue: Swinging Through Life: A 20-Year Journey from Bermuda to Phoenix.