Setting the Standard for World-Class Golf and Practice Facilities
BY MARK PAZDUR, PUBLISHER
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA: Set amidst 2,400 acres of a picturesque nature preserve, Panther National embodies a new generation of luxury and sophistication in private golf club communities. With visionary founder Dominik Senn at the helm, Panther National combines the genius of legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus and the creativity of PGA star Justin Thomas to deliver a golfing experience unlike any other.
From its meticulously designed championship course, known affectionately as “The Big Cat,” to its cutting-edge practice facility designed by Justin Thomas, Panther National has redefined the gold standard for exclusive private clubs.
The Practice Area: A Justin Thomas Masterpiece
The Panther National golf experience begins at its world-class practice facility, designed by PGA Tour star Justin Thomas and a selected group of short game coaches. Every detail reflects Thomas’s vision and the team’s expertise, creating an environment tailored for golfers aiming to elevate their game.
“Designing Panther National’s practice facility was an incredible experience,” shared Thomas. “I wanted to craft a space where every shot mirrors what professionals encounter on Tour. Seeing it come to life and using it to sharpen my game has been exciting—and invaluable for my preparation.”
The facility meets the exacting standards of professional golfers while remaining accessible to players of all levels. “Our goal was to create a space built for pros but beneficial to everyone,” said Dominik Senn, founder of Panther National. “With premium range balls from Callaway, TaylorMade, and Titleist ProV1 and ProV1x, plus expertly crafted target greens, every element ensures a world-class experience.”
The 27 target greens are made with Trinity Zoysia turf to replicate a putting green. Each target green is specifically sized based on PGA Tour statistics for the shot’s yardage, offering very challenging, realistic scenarios for approach shots.
A 27-yard-wide “fairway” replicates U.S. Open-level difficulty, presenting a diverse array of tee-shot challenges. For short-game enthusiasts, “The Cub”—a 33,000-square-foot putting course inspired by the iconic Himalayas Putting Course at St. Andrews—provides a fun yet demanding way to hone putting skills.
“Justin’s feedback shaped every aspect of our unmatched practice facilities,” added Tom Dyer, director of golf. “His passion for precision and creativity is evident in every detail.”
The Big Cat: Panther National’s Championship Course
Panther National’s 18-hole Championship Course, nicknamed “The Big Cat,” is a testament to the collaboration between Jack Nicklaus and Justin Thomas.
Defined by steep elevation changes, dramatic vistas, and a masterful design that reflects Dominik Senn’s vision of natural landforms.
Playing up to 8,000 yards from the tips and as short as 4,500 yards from the forward tees, it’s an inspiring playground for any golfer.
“Jack’s fingerprints can be found all over the golf course,” revealed Dyer. He also noted that Nicklaus, who lives just minutes from Panther National, visited the construction site over 20 times to ensure the course matched his high standards.
One of the standout holes on the course is No. 11, a masterful creation by Justin Thomas. This risk-and-reward par-5 challenges golfers to play bold. A perfectly placed tee shot can catch a steep downhill slope, gaining an extra 100 yards or more, potentially setting up a chance to reach the green in two. For those playing it as a three-shot par five, strategic placement is crucial; the second shot must be aimed at the right-center of the fairway to avoid trouble and position for the elevated approach. The green itself sits 35-40 feet above the fairway, demanding precision and one extra club for the uphill approach.
A perfect complement to the championship course, Panther9 is a stunning Par-3, a nine-hole golf oasis designed to challenge and inspire. With holes ranging from 90 to 150 yards, the course features diverse greens, each uniquely sloped to test a variety of approach shots. Its design makes it excellent for pros honing their short game while providing an ideal setting for beginners learning the fundamentals of golf. Among its highlights is an iconic island green, inspired by TPC Sawgrass’s legendary 17th hole, adding a dramatic and unforgettable touch to this exceptional course.
This diversity in design ensures that every round at Panther National offers new challenges. “The course runs in eight different directions on the compass,” explained Dyer, “so no matter the wind, you’ll face multiple playing conditions—from headwinds to crosswinds and tailwinds—all requiring adjustments to your game.”
More Than Just Golf
“From the start, the vision was clear to create a golf experience unlike any other in South Florida,” said Jack Nicklaus.
Dominik Senn’s dream of combining modern architecture, unmatched privacy, and decades of golf expertise has come to life in spectacular fashion. Every detail, from the pristine turf to the panoramic views, reflects the dedication to delivering the best that Palm Beach has to offer.
Beyond the fairways, Panther National is a hub of activity and camaraderie, providing members with a sanctuary of luxury and sophistication. From the expansive clubhouse amenities to curated events, every aspect of Panther National is designed to enhance the lifestyle of its members. As Justin Thomas succinctly put it, “It is destined to be one of the top private courses in Florida.”
For golfers and purists alike, Panther National is more than a club; it’s a community and a lifestyle.
Panther National represents the pinnacle of private golf club living, seamlessly blending tradition and innovation. From the cutting-edge practice areas to the masterfully crafted championship course, it offers an experience that resonates with its members. Tom Dyer concluded, “When you combine our privacy, sleek architecture, and a team with decades of experience across their respective fields, I can safely say we deliver the best that Palm Beach offers.”
For more information, please visit PantherNational.com.