Willard Byrd is considered one of the masters of Lowcountry course design, and has made his mark along the Grand Strand with nine area designs – among them noted layouts Litchfield Country Club and International Club to the south, and sister designs Farmstead Golf Links and Meadowlands Golf Club nearby in the north.
But of all of Byrd’s handiwork in the area, his contribution with one of the Legendary Big Cats™ of Ocean Ridge Plantation, Lion’s Paw® Golf Links, not only reflects the culmination of a lifetime of experience, it is considered by many as his finest work.
Lion’s Paw showcases Byrd’s ability to work land that offers a striking diversity with a combination of holes that alternate between those that are enclosed, secluded, and edged by woodlands; and others that are open, windswept and hilly with breathtaking views of a scenic creek valley and adjacent wetlands.
Lion’s Paw presents a formidable test to your game and puts a premium on hitting fairways off the tee as well as precise shot making. It features deep, sugar-sand bunkers and MiniVerde greens, and is visually highlighted by oyster shells that accent the lakes and creeks that extend across several fairways as well as water elements that come into play on all but three holes. The aforementioned wetlands are visible from every hole on Lion’s Paw.
Byrd’s handiwork has been recognized by Golf Digest with four stars in its “Places to Play” Guide, and has also graced the publication’s listing of the “Top 50 in Myrtle Beach.” Shared with sister course Panther’s Run® Golf Links, the Lion’s Paw clubhouse has repeatedly been recognized by Golf Shop Operations Magazine as one of “America’s 100 Best Golf Shops.”
Willard Byrd’s majestic work is ready and waiting to be included in your next Grand Strand golf getaway itinerary. Give us a call at (800) 233-1801 or email us at [email protected], and we’ll help get your plans in motion. We look forward to seeing you out on the links!
