LV Country Club presents a stiff challenge

Monday, Oct. 20, 1997 | 4:18 a.m.

One of Las Vegas' more picturesque golf courses, the Las Vegas Country Club stretches some 7,162 yards and is highlighted by one of the finest finishing holes in the city.

The LVCC served as the host course for the Las Vegas Invitational from its inception in 1983 until 1991 and was the site of three exciting LVI sudden-death playoffs. The Country Club was used as a satellite course for the LVI from 1992 to 1995 and returns to the three-course rotation this year after a one-year hiatus.

Designed by Edmund Ault in 1967, the Las Vegas Country Club later underwent considerable changes by golf course designer Ron Garl. Garl brought water into play that more strategically enhanced the beauty of the course with its rolling fairways, well-guarded greens and acres of olive trees.

The course features bent grass greens and hybrid Bermuda fairways. The 42,000-square-foot clubhouse includes a pro shop, three restaurants, a members lounge, banquet facilities and locker rooms.

Prior to the 1992 LVI, the course underwent some additional changes. The first hole was converted to a 440-yard par 4 while the second hole became a 470-yard par 5 that plays over water.

The first private, member-owned club in Las Vegas, the country club features several holes that represent a stiff test of golf to even the most seasoned professionals.

At the seventh hole, golfers must contend with a heavily bunkered fairway with a narrow landing area. The green is bunkered on both sides.

The par-3 17th hole is one of the toughest and most beautiful holes on the course. With the Las Vegas Hilton serving as a backdrop, swirling winds off the building make it almost impossible to judge the direction of the wind.

One of the most impressive holes in Las Vegas is the LVCC's 18th hole, a demanding 524-yard par 5. the hole proved to be decisive in the 1983, 1985 and 1987 LVI championships. In 1987, Paul Azinger reached the green in two and sank a spectacular eagle putt to break a three-way tie and earn the victory.