Course of the Week: TPC Twin Cities

TPC Twin Cities: Where Golfing Dreams Come True! 

Let us tell you about our incredible experience at TPC Twin Cities. This place is more than just a golf course; it's a golfer's paradise! From the moment you step foot on the impressive 27,000 square feet practice facility, you know you're in for something special. This place has it all: double-ended and double-tiered setup, putting greens that seem to stretch on forever, and bunker and short-game practice areas that make you feel like a pro. The picturesque surroundings only add to the tranquility of the setting. And let's not forget about the amazing teaching professionals who utilize state-of-the-art tools to elevate your game. With video swing analysis, launch monitors, and custom club fitting, they work their magic to help you reach new heights. 

If that weren't enough, TPC Twin Cities has been the proud host of the 3M Open since 2001, including the final championship in 2018. This tournament has become a beloved tradition, drawing enthusiastic crowds year after year. And let me tell you, playing this course in a PGA setting versus regular play is like night and day. The rough around the greens becomes a daunting challenge, as thick as a jungle. Even dropping a ball straight down, you sometimes can't even spot it! And the rolling and cutting of the greens for tournament play adds an extra layer of complexity. It truly transforms the course into a masterpiece fit for the pros. Oh, and the bunkers! They are meticulously maintained on a daily basis, and trust me, they'll test your sand skills like never before. 

Now, let us take you through some of the standout holes that have left an indelible mark on us. First up, the 18th hole. This dogleg offers a tempting challenge with water to the right of the green. You can't resist the urge to cut it, but beware, it can easily lead to a bogey. On my last play, Mark managed to par it, and I was just a little envious! Then there's the 9th hole, a mighty par 4 stretching 504 yards. With a tough tiered green and water lurking at the edge, it keeps you on your toes throughout the entire hole. But trust me, the feeling of conquering it is unbeatable. 

Hole 14 holds a special place in my heart. The sweeping dogleg-left around Cavner's Cove, home to two majestic Loons (the state bird), is nothing short of magical. It's a favorite among TPC Twin Cities members, guests, and tournament galleries alike. A successful tee shot along the right side of the fairway sets you up for a simpler approach to the unguarded front right portion of the green. The view alone is worth the visit! 

And let's not forget about the 6th hole, a par 5 double dogleg with water. It presents a thrilling challenge for golfers of all skill levels. It's the kind of hole that gets your heart racing and puts your strategic thinking to the test. Be prepared for a memorable experience! 

Now, hold your breath for the infamous par-3 17th hole. This beast gobbled up 118 water balls during the 2019-20 PGA Tour season, making it one of the most challenging holes on the course. Playing 229 yards into the wind across water, it's a true test of skill and nerve. But who doesn't love a challenge? It's just one of the many reasons TPC Twin Cities is so appealing. 

For us, TPC Twin Cities is more than just a golf course. It's an exceptional testament to Arnold Palmer's design legacy and a place where golfing dreams come true. The annual 3M Championship, graced by legendary players like Bernhard Langer, Fred Couples, Tom Lehman, Rickie Fowler, and so many more, only adds to its allure. Yes, it's a challenging course with tough ratings and slopes, but it's undeniably fun to play. The generous rolling fairways provide your tee shot with plenty of roll, but be sure to stay on target, or you might find yourself in the native prairie grass or water hazards that line the fairways. The large, undulating, and fast greens demand precision and skill. Every par on this course gives you a sense of fulfillment, leaving you eager to return for more. In fact, our love for TPC Twin Cities has led me to become an official TPC Member, making this course our golfing home for the 2024 season. And to top it off, the fact that this incredible course is just blocks away from our home is a dream come true. 

TPC Twin Cities is a course that every golfer should experience at least once in their lifetime. From its natural beauty to its challenging yet enjoyable layout, it truly offers an unforgettable golfing experience. So, grab your clubs, head over to Blaine, Minnesota, and get ready to make some incredible memories at TPC Twin Cities.