PGA National Resort & Spa’s acclaimed Champion Course, the Jack Nicklaus-designed host of the PGA TOUR’s Honda Classic and home of the famous Bear Trap, has reopened after a comprehensive re-grassing and renovation of the 14th hole.
Fairways, green surrounds and tees on The Champion Course have been updated with Celebration Bermuda grass. This turf is intended to deliver consistent, high-quality playing conditions for PGA TOUR competitors at the Honda Classic and for resort guests and club members who play the course throughout the year.
“The Celebration Bermuda will provide us with major-like conditions,” says Lukus Harvey, director of agronomy, PGA National Resort & Spa. “The Honda Classic field is perennially on par with golf’s four majors, and now we have the turf to provide similar conditions. Our resort guests and club members will love it because it provides a better year-around product, including upgraded irrigation. The grass is so dense you won’t get a bad lie.”
As part of the renovation, four greens — Nos. 1, 9, 15 and 17 — were restored and expanded to their original sizes while remaining surfaced with TifEagle, a putting grass known for its consistency and true roll. On the redesigned 14th hole, Nicklaus shifted the green 17 yards to the right, bringing water into play on the approach and increasing strategic challenge. The tee was moved back 10 yards, and new bunkers were added in front of and behind the green to strengthen the 465-yard par-4 and enhance shot-making decisions.
The combination of Celebration Bermuda and upgraded irrigation aims to create a durable, year-round playing surface that stands up to tournament conditions and guest play. These improvements are intended to preserve the course’s reputation for championship-quality challenges while improving turf performance and recovery.
Players can expect firmer fairways, consistent lies and reliable green surrounds that complement the TifEagle putting surfaces across the course. The renovation reflects PGA National’s commitment to maintaining a world-class championship venue that supports the competitive demands of the Honda Classic and delivers an exceptional experience for daily play.
With the Champion Course refreshed and the 14th hole reimagined, the resort offers renewed strategy and visual interest while maintaining the original character of Nicklaus’s design. The changes prioritize playability, turf health and long-term durability, ensuring the course remains a top destination for tournament professionals and recreational golfers alike.