PGA National's "Bear Trap" ranks as toughest 3-hole stretch in golf

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. - South African Ernie Els and his fellow PGA Tour players kicked off the Florida Swing at The Honda Classic, recently taking the stage on "The Champ" course at PGA National Resort & Spa.

After two separate rounds of renovations in as many years, The Champ proved to be as formidable an opponent as the players themselves with the course's daunting "Bear Trap" - a series of three holes, starting with No. 15 - continuing to test the game and spirit of the best players in modern golf. At this year's Honda Classic the "Bear Trap" netted an astounding 356 over par, compared with last year's 254 over par, proving the improvements enhanced not only the quality of the course, but also its difficulty.

"We are thrilled with the extensive renovations by Nicklaus Design and Superior Golf Concepts," said PGA National Resort & Spa managing director, Joel Paige. "The combined scores from holes 15, 16 and 17 have shown that our "Bear Trap" offers professional golfers the toughest three-hole stretch anywhere in the world."

Improvements to The Champion Course were part of an extensive, multi-million dollar resort-wide makeover that included a gorgeous new front entrance, lobby bar, steak and seafood grille, stunning freeform zero-entry pool and waterside bar and grill. The Champ's re-shaped and expanded bunkers drew significant attention from players and spectators who commented on the course's demand for a focused game.

Visitors to PGA National Resort and Spa can match their golfing skills against the legendary "Bear Trap." A variety of value spring and summer season packages are available on the resort's website at www.pgaresort.com.

About PGA National Resort and Spa

Opened in 1981, PGA National Resort and Spa is a stunning South Florida vacation and meeting destination. The legendary 339-room resort has recently completed Phase 1 of multi-million dollar facelift that included a completely new front entrance, outdoor pool and pavilion as well as enhanced public areas, restaurants, golf courses and landscaping.

PGA National Resort and Spa offers 90 holes of championship golf, including the famed Champion Course, new home to the PGA Tour's Honda Classic and past host of the 1983 Ryder Cup, the 1987 PGA Championship and a litany of other prized professional golf tournaments. Other distinguishing features include a 42,000 square foot European Spa with 56 treatments areas and the exclusive Waters of the World outdoor mineral pools, a world-class health and racquet club, 34,000 square feet of self-contained conference space and seven on-site restaurants and lounges. PGA National Resort is located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. For more information call 1-800-633-9150 or visit www.pgaresort.com.