New Golf Entertainment Complex At Saint John’s Resort To Open On June 22

Written By: Sara Alhariri

Sara Alhariri

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June 19, 2024 11:31 PM

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Saint John’s Resort launches Detroit’s first high-end public golf facility in 20 years, featuring The Cardinal 18-hole course, Little Cardinal Par 3, and Doyle’s Irish Pub.

Saint John’s Resort, Metro Detroit’s premier destination for lodging, conferences, and recreation, is set to unveil its new 18-hole championship golf course, The Cardinal, designed by Raymond Hearn, on June 22. Alongside this, the resort will introduce the Little Cardinal Par 3 short course, the Cardinal Putting Course, and Doyle’s Irish Pub, establishing a comprehensive golf entertainment complex. This project marks the region’s first upscale public golf development in over two decades and is a component of a $50 million resort transformation initiated in 2021 by the non-profit Pulte Family Charitable Foundation, the property’s owner.

“We are very excited to be opening this new championship golf course, Par 3 course, and putting course. It has been over a year in the making, and everything has been meticulously maintained for the past six months. The course conditions are the best I have seen for a new course opening,” said Stan Witko, Executive Director of Golf for Saint John’s Resort. “This new championship golf course, combined with the short course and putting course, creates the perfect golf entertainment venue for golfers of all abilities, golf groups, and families to enjoy together. The facility serves as a foundation for building a passion for the game, offering a welcoming entry point into the world of golf. On top of that, 100 percent of the profits from the resort, including golf, goes to charity.” 

Detroit’s first upscale public golf facility in over two decades, The Cardinal at Saint John’s Resort, spans 200 acres of picturesque terrain. The previous 27-hole layout was completely revamped to create this new course, offering a unique experience with each hole designed to be distinct in appearance and play. The routing considers elevation changes, wind, terrain, and scenic beauty to enhance strategic shot values. The course integrates the natural flow of the land and preserves the majestic 100-year-old trees, which now elegantly frame many holes, embodying a classic design aesthetic from the golden age of golf course architecture. Several holes also feature traditional Golden Age green contours and bunkering.

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“The land was a perfect setting for me to draw on my inspiration from previous Donald Ross, Tom Bendelow, and Willie Park Jr. projects and one of my favorite courses, The Old Course at Sunningdale by Willie Park Jr, which I implemented on both the championship course and the short course,” said Hearn. “Our goal was to create a fun golf experience. I believe we have achieved that, and then some, with this project.”

Metro Detroit’s First Par 3 Short Course and Putting Course Unveiled

Saint John’s Resort has launched The Little Cardinal and Cardinal Putting Course, the region’s inaugural seven-hole short course and two-acre putting course, aligning it with prestigious golf destinations like Bandon Dunes, Pinehurst, Streamsong, and Sand Valley.

Designed by Raymond Hearn, The Little Cardinal course spans 7.5 acres of scenic parkland, offering golfers a series of engaging short shots into creatively designed green complexes. The holes, named Punchbowl, Volcano, and Postage, range from 44 to 112 yards, providing a unique experience for players of all ages and skill levels. To enhance playability, the course features innovative synthetic turf tee boxes with a shock-absorbing rubber foundation, mimicking natural grass tees and offering a more forgiving surface for shots.

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The Cardinal Putting Course spans two acres and offers an 18-hole layout filled with endless fun and challenges. Inspired by the Himalayas Putting Course at St. Andrews in Scotland, it features a range of exciting humps and swales, though less extreme than the original. The course can be configured in four different setups, adding to its versatility. This lively golfing space also includes food and beverage options, built-in music, and scheduled live music events, making it a perfect spot for social gatherings.

“These exciting golf attractions provide a relaxed environment focused on fun and offering a less intimidating introduction to the game, encouraging newcomers to want to participate, learn, and improve,” said Witko.

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The multi-purpose golf entertainment venue, encircling the resort’s driving range and the renowned national golf retailer Carl’s Golfland, will also debut Doyle’s Irish Pub. This authentic two-story Irish pub and restaurant will be the ideal spot for a meal or drink before or after a round of golf.

Introducing a unique membership to grow the game.

The innovative Shorty Club Membership provides an exceptional opportunity to enjoy The Little Cardinal and Cardinal Putting Course with no green fees, priority bookings, and special rates for The Cardinal. This membership is designed to make golf accessible and enjoyable for families and youth players, offering a way to bond over the sport and become part of a community united by a shared love for golf.

“We wanted an innovative membership model that could attract families and new players to the game in a fun and non-intimidating atmosphere,” said Witko. “What makes the Shorty Club especially appealing is its focus on inclusivity and fun, ensuring that golf is accessible to all. There isn’t a membership opportunity like this anywhere in Metro Detroit.”

A Range of Golf Packages to Enjoy

Saint John’s Resort is set to offer a variety of golf packages tailored for foursomes, couples, groups, families, and corporate outings. Stay-and-play packages will feature resort credit for Doyle’s Irish Pub and FIVE Steakhouse, reduced fees on the Little Cardinal course, and unlimited access to The Cardinal Putting Course. Families can enjoy a unique golf package that includes unlimited use of both the Little Cardinal and The Cardinal Putting Course. Groups of eight or more will benefit from welcome drinks at Doyle’s Irish Pub, group golf instruction, and play on both The Cardinal and Little Cardinal courses, with unlimited access to The Cardinal Putting Course.