### A Golf Landmark Reimagined
The Skins Game has come full circle. Just ten days after being revived, the site of the first-ever Skins Game, Desert Highlands in Scottsdale, Arizona, reopened following a comprehensive renovation valued at $10 million.
### The Legacy of the Skins Game
Desert Highlands originally hosted the inaugural Skins Game in 1983, featuring golf legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Tom Watson. The event became a Thanksgiving weekend tradition, showcasing relaxed competition and player interaction that drew millions of viewers for two decades.
> “Desert Highlands will always hold a special place in golf history as the birthplace of the Skins Game,” said the club’s general manager, expressing pride in restoring that legacy through modern upgrades.
### Modern Enhancements with Classic Spirit
Led by architect David Zinkand, the renovation project refreshed both the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course and the surrounding facilities. Updates included regrassing fairways, rebuilding bunkers for improved playability, and redesigning landscaping to reflect the Arizona desert’s natural beauty.
The clubhouse and fitness areas also received extensive improvements, blending contemporary design with the club’s timeless atmosphere. Members and guests now enjoy upgraded amenities that preserve the original charm while enhancing comfort and functionality.
### Renewed Energy for a Historic Club
Desert Highlands’ reopening symbolizes not just a physical restoration but also a reconnection with golf’s rich cultural roots. By honoring its past and investing in its future, the club reaffirms its role as a touchstone in American golf.
> “We wanted to respect the course’s DNA while making sure it remains relevant for the next generation,” Zinkand noted about the renovation philosophy.
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**Author’s summary:** Desert Highlands, where the first Skins Game was played, reopened after a $10M renewal blending historical respect with modern luxury to revive a legendary golf venue.
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Golfweek on MSN — 2025-11-28