The Champion Course at PGA National Resort
The Champion Course at PGA National Resort
The Champion Course anchors the luxurious PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens. This bundled golf community offers world-class amenities for residents and guests. Features include a renowned spa, multiple pools, and fitness facilities. The sports and racquet club provides tennis, pickleball, and more activities. Surrounding neighborhoods blend upscale living with resort-style convenience.
PGA National Resort delivers exceptional dining and wellness options year-round. Six championship golf courses enhance the community’s appeal. Exclusive membership access elevates the lifestyle experience. The area fosters community, fellowship, and luxury in Florida. Beautiful landscapes surround the vibrant resort setting.
The Champion Course Description
The Champion Course is a demanding championship layout in Palm Beach Gardens. Originally designed by Tom and George Fazio, Jack Nicklaus redesigned it. TifEagle grass covers the greens for smooth play. Conditions remain excellent with challenging water and wind. It plays to par 72 with yardage around 7,000-7,081 from back tees.
The course rating reaches 75.4 with slope up to 144. Numerous bunkers and 14 water holes test golfers. Signature holes include the famous Bear Trap trio. Holes 15-17 feature perilous water hazards. The layout balances generous areas with strategic demands.
The Champion Course at PGA National Resort Costs and Fees
Greens fees for resort guests reach around $450 in high season. Cart fees add to the overall playing cost. Forecaddie services may incur extra charges. Membership provides unlimited access to multiple courses. Costs vary by season and player status.
Full golf membership initiation fee is $75,000. Annual family dues total $25,000. Junior executive initiation starts at $16,000. Sports membership offers limited golf at lower fees. Resort social options focus on non-golf amenities.
The Champion Course at PGA National Resort Address
400 Avenue of the Champions, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
Phone: (561) 627-1800
Cognizant Classic at PGA National
The Cognizant Classic is a longstanding PGA Tour event held annually at PGA National Resort’s Champion Course in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Founded in 1972 as Jackie Gleason’s Inverrary Classic, it has undergone several name changes, including a long run as The Honda Classic before Cognizant became title sponsor in 2024. The tournament takes place in late February to early March, drawing top professionals to south Florida’s golf scene. It has been contested on the Champion Course since 2007, adding prestige with its challenging layout.
Past winners include legends like Jack Nicklaus and recent champions such as Nico Echavarria in 2026.The event features the infamous Bear Trap, holes 15-17, known for water hazards and high drama. This stretch, redesigned by Jack Nicklaus, often decides outcomes with its difficulty. The par-71 Champion Course plays around 7,223 yards for the pros, testing accuracy and strategy. The tournament offers a $9.6 million purse, highlighting competitive play in a resort setting. It remains a key stop in the Florida Swing, blending history with exciting finishes.