October 22, 2017

MYRTLE BEACH, SC — The Captains Club announced today that South Carolina and Legends Resort in Myrtle Beach, SC will host the 2018 Carl Spackler Open. The decision to return to Myrtle Beach after 17 years was an opportunity for the ages.

"We have put together a rare package without the traditional feel," said Chairman of the Captains Club Greg Long. "I would ask everyone who has participated year after year to fully understand the registration information immediately. The more senior the participant, the more important they understand the changes for 2018."

Legends Golf Resort will offer three of the best championship golf courses available in the Myrtle Beach and surrounding area. Centrally located just off Highway 501 in Myrtle Beach, the Heathland and Moorland courses nestle within the Scottish-inspired Legends Golf Resort facility.

Long added, "The choice of venue includes a gigantic practice facility, condos on the property, and indoor/outdoor bar with swimming pool. It is quite a setup just 15 minites from Myrtle Beach International Airport."

The par 71 Heathland Course, designed by Tom Doak, is a return to the grand 'Old Country' traditions of the game. It has been distinctly molded in the image of the British Isles links courses, with holes reminiscent of familiar links like St. Andrews. Most of the holes are without high vegetation, providing  visual presentation. The challenge and difficulty of this course comes primarily from the unobstructed breeze that wafts constantly over the course, and the strategically placed bunkers and lush, deep rough that closely border all fairways. Many of the greenside bunkers are deep and require creative shots to make an escape.

Justin Gorby and Long boys all played the Moorland course this summer. It would be the most difficult golf course since Thunder Hill in 2003.

"There are many concerns we have this year," says Dave Osborne. "Getting people to understand the strict registration process, lack of bag storage, what is included, and unnecessary personal vehicles are important communications. There is a cap this year. We have 80 beds and the 81st bed is no longer available."

Considered one of the greatest challenges on the East Coast - a par 72 triumph - Moorland was designed by noted golf architect P. B. Dye. Large expanses of natural growth, sand, water and waste areas combine with extraordinary undulations and bulkheads to present a course reminiscent of the PGA West Stadium Course. This controversial course is definitely a 'target' golf course. Created in the Dye tradition, Moorland will cause golfers to rise to incredible heights on the sculpted terrain, sink to considerable depths in the bunkers, and constantly use every ounce of skill and luck in their possession.

"It is a very difficult test," said Justin Gorby. "One of the most difficult that I have come across. A course like this will crown a true champion."

The 2018 Carl Spackler Open will be held at Legends Golf Resort in Myrtle Beach, SC. There is a strict registration deadline of January 31. There are 64 participants expected for the 18th annual event.