But how did the remnants of a peanut farm in the heart of the Red River Valley become one of Oklahoma’s most sought-after golf destinations? To understand that, you need to get in the minds of former PGA TOUR professional and renowned golf course architect D.A. Weibring and his design partner, Steve Wolfard.

As WinStar World Casino and Resort continued to grow into one of the world’s premier gaming and entertainment destinations, the team discussed the possibility of adding golf to their roster of amenities. WinStar landed on Weibring-Wolfard Golf Design, led by the five-time PGA TOUR winner. The firm’s portfolio is rich with projects all around the world, including Byron Nelson Japan and TPC Deere Run, the host of the PGA TOUR’s annual John Deere Classic.

Taking philosophies from historic golf course architects like Donald Ross, A.W. Tillinghast and Allister MacKenzie, Weibring and Wolfard set out to create a destination for golfers of every skill level.

“We wanted to build a golf course that was not only visually striking, but that was good for everybody,” Weibring said. “Our philosophy is to build a playable golf course for every skill level. We want golfers to be able to bounce the ball onto the green and play golf on the ground. But I wanted it to have a balance and not only be attractive for the beginning golfer, but also a better player as well.”

WinStar Golf Club wasn’t always the grand property with two championship 18-hole courses you see today. Before Scissortail and Redbud, the golf courses came in stages. The team built an original 18 holes in Phase One, followed by nine more a few years later and a final nine completed in 2018. Focusing on a classic design, Weibring-Wolfard utilized the natural features of the property to complement its routing.

“One of the things we did with this property is highlight one of Oklahoma’s most unique features – the red dirt in some of the waste areas,” Weibring said. “In general, we try to build the golf course into the property rather than on top of the property. Of course, you have to move some earth when you’re in a flat river valley for some contrast, but we aimed to focus on the idea of a resort look.”

Oklahoma is no stranger to strong golf course design. Classic examples of some of the world’s greatest architects – including the aforementioned MacKenzie, Pete Dye and Perry Maxwell – dot the Oklahoma landscape. And with a nearly four-decade career playing the world’s greatest golf courses including Augusta National, Pebble Beach and Pinehurst No. 2, D.A. offered inspiration from some of his past playing and design experiences.

“I grew up in Illinois and played a lot of public golf, but getting on TOUR and getting to play the best golf courses in the world certainly was an influence for me,” Weibring said. “I’ve always believed that because of these influences, I’ve erred toward the ‘golf on the ground’ concept. It’s easy to build a hard golf course, with long, tight fairways and ridiculous contours on the greens. The challenge is to build a course that has a nice variety for every level of golfer. When you build something that can challenge both a low handicapper and still give a beginner the chance to get around the golf course, I think you really have something.”

If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, then Weibring’s vision has come to life in south-central Oklahoma. Proper routing was priority number one for the design team, ensuring a mixture of wind variance into par threes and par fives. Tee box selection allows the courses to play less than 5,000 yards or more than 7,200 yards. Short grass around the greens gives every player the chance to score.

“We have a balance chart we use to make sure there’s no redundancy on the golf course,” Weibring said. “When you play professionally for 40 years, you learn what works and what doesn’t. Our goal is to find that balance and give them an option.”

With two championship-level golf courses, a state-of-the-art golf academy and the same first-class amenities you’ve come to enjoy at WinStar World Casino and Resort, it’s no wonder why it’s become a destination for golf enthusiasts around the world.

“People who have come up to play WinStar Golf Club have come back and told us, ‘wow, I didn’t know that golf course was this good,’” Weibring said. “That was the goal – to build a property that fit the eye of golfers at every level of the game. When you create a track that challenges them to commit to every shot, then you know you have something.”

The post Gaming Goes Golfing appeared first on WinStar.

10. World Long Drive

Perfect nights and long bombs off the tee made for one epic showdown that saw three new champions crowned at the World Long Drive Championship at WinStar Golf Club. Jeff Crittenden took home his second Masters Division belt, while Chloe Garner and Kyle Berkshire both earned their first titles in the Women’s and Open divisions, respectively.

9. River Poker Series

We celebrated Labor Day with the River Poker Series. This action-packed poker tournament is a favorite for both veteran pros and amateur players. Our Labor Day series was one for the books with multiple events, thousands of runners, and millions on the line.

8. 16 Days of Giveaways

Our 16^th birthday brought fun for everyone, as we gave away thousands of dollars in free play, spa packages, event tickets, Dallas Cowboys swag, gift cards and partnership packages. You know we love giving you prizes, so follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the chance to win.

7. Vroom, Vroom

It was a year of exclusive car giveaways, with lucky winners driving away in brand-new Mercedes, BMWs and other fancy four-wheeled vehicles. But we’re not done yet – play in our Drive into 2020 giveaway for your chance to drive home a new ride!

6. New Members Win… BIG

We refreshed our benefits to new Club Passport members, offering up to $350 worth of benefits on your first night. Not a member yet? Sign up today.

5. Swing Away

WinStar Golf Club got a new look in 2019 new bunkers and an enhanced aesthetic on our Redbud course. Take a peek at all the fun things happening at south-central Oklahoma’s premier golf experience.

4. Stars on the Big Stage

It was a year of epic entertainment at the Global Event Center. We saw dozens of world-renowned entertainers, including Pitbull, Jerry Seinfeld, Brad Paisley and more. Our 2020 entertainment lineup is heating up, with Jason Isbell, Pitbull and The Beach Boys already on board. Stay tuned for more announces coming soon!

3. Go, Team, Go!

We were proud to partner with some of the world’s leading brands in sports this year. From the PBR Global Cup at AT&T Stadium to fútbol with FC Dallas and cheering on both the burnt orange and crimson at the Red River Showdown, it truly was a year for big wins. Which brings us to…

2. America’s Team

The iconic star and WinStar – a match made in heaven. To celebrate our groundbreaking partnership as THE Casino of the Dallas Cowboys, we gave you the opportunity to win some exclusive Cowboys prizes, including VIP game day experiences and one-of-a-kind memorabilia.

1. Looking Forward to 2020

We’ll never forget all the amazing things that happened around here this year, and we’re sending 2019 out with our biggest New Year’s Eve celebration ever. Join us to be a part of it and stay tuned to hear about even more happening in 2020!

The post Top 10 for 2019 appeared first on WinStar.

Born from the remnants of a peanut farm along the banks of the Red River, WinStar Golf Club is truly the premier golf oasis of the Eastern Cross Timbers. Boasting more than 350 acres of well-shaped turf winding through a maze of native grasses, our two golf courses offer a true test for every level of golfer. Designed by PGA Tour professional D.A. Weibring and chief architect Steve Wolfard, WinStar Golf Club offers two 18-hole courses of championship golf, inspired by historic Oklahoma tracts with the intention to bring resort-style amenities to the course.

As the temperatures mellow and leaves begin to turn, there’s no better time to book a round at WinStar Golf Club. Beginning Nov. 1, enjoy a tee time for just $55, including weekends. If you’re looking for an extra layer to stay cozy out on the course, swing by the Pro Shop and browse leading brands like Titleist and FootJoy, Travis Mathew and more.

Our hours of operation are changing, too. Beginning Nov. 1, all facilities – including the Clubhouse, Pro Shop and Legends Bar & Grill – will be open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

While many will put their clubs into hibernation, autumn is the perfect time for you to join us for a round at WinStar Golf Club. Book your next tee time today at 580-276-4229 and enjoy the Red River Valley’s premier golf experience.

The post Autumn is Golfing Weather appeared first on WinStar.

16. Winning Picks Coffee Shop

Everyone loves a fresh cup of java. At WinStar’s Winning Picks Coffee Shop, you can enjoy made-to-order Starbucks beverages to get your day going. Grab a quick bite, an extra shot of espresso and get back to winning!

15. Princess Parking

You know the feeling. One pass along the front row of the parking lot and there it is—a spot right by your favorite gaming entrance. Some of our favorite princess parking spots are outside the Madrid entrance and just inside the parking garage.

14. Complimentary Drink Stations

Whether your go-to is a hot cup of joe or an ice-cold soda, you can enjoy all-you-can-drink non-alcoholic beverages at any of our 11 complimentary drink stations across the gaming floor.

13. WinStar’s Resort Pool

Long, hot days are better spent poolside. Relaxing, in-water lounges, poolside service and private cabanas are just a few of the luxurious amenities you’ll enjoy while you work on that golden tan.

12. Travel Around the World

Beijing, New York, Paris, Rio, Rome, Vienna, Cairo, London and Madrid. When you’re with us, we can offer you the world.

11. Knowledgeable Staff

Have a question or need some direction? With the friendliest staff on earth, we’d love to chat. Plus, when you level up on your Club Passport card, you’ll earn exclusive access to our world-class casino hosts.

10. Valet

If the front row is princess parking, then valet is fit for a king or queen. Simply drive right up to the Grand Entrance outside the Rome Gaming Plaza or the Pool Tower entrance, toss us the keys and let us take care of the rest.

9. ONYX

Fendi, Gucci and Swarovski are just a few of the luxury brands you can shop at ONYX Boutique. Plus, grab your blue and silver Cowboys gear to rep America’s Team. You didn’t choose the boujee life. The boujee life chose you.

8. Relaxing and Refreshing in Style

Plush bedding, state-of-the-art amenities and complimentary Bedré Fine Chocolate on your pillow are just a few of the luxuries you’ll discover when you stay at the WinStar World Casino Hotel.

7. Epic Entertainment

On any given night, you could find Grammy winners, comedic icons or some of the world’s finest athletes at WinStar’s Global Event Center.

6. Awesome Views

While we’re moving on up, we’ll show you the finest views in the Red River Valley! Look outside your window for some spectacular views of our beautiful surrounding landscape.

5. Championship Golf

Acres of lush fairways and pristine greens await at WinStar Golf Club. Discover the newly-renovated Redbud course, complete with new white sand bunkers. But trust us, they’re a lot more fun to look at than play out of.

4. The Best Partners

We take our friends seriously. That’s why we’re proud to partner with the Dallas Cowboys, Outdoor Powersports, COOP Ale Works and My Bariatric Solutions. 

3. 1,500 Rooms

Three lavishly-appointed hotel towers, more than 100 rooms at The Inn and 160 spacious sites at Fun Town RV Park at WinStar allow you to take your pick of your favorite accommodations.

2. More Games Than Anyone

More than 8,400 electronic games and favorite table games like craps and roulette across a mile of gaming floor? That’s what we call options.

1. We Give Away Lots of Money

CHA-CHING. When you pay out more than $74 million in jackpots each month, you know there’s always a chance for a pay day.

There you have it. Sixteen of our favorite things we’re proud of on our birthday. And with thousands of chances to win big this month, we hope you’ll join us for all the festivities!

The post A Few of Our Favorite Things appeared first on WinStar.

The biggest update on the course was our bunker project. We restructured half of the existing bunkers on Redbud and added several new traps, providing additional challenges on nearly every hole. We added new liners and premium crushed white marble sand to all bunkers, dramatically improving the overall aesthetic of the course. The next time you come out for a round of golf, you’ll find pristine new bunkers on holes 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17 and 18.

To further beautify the landscape, we planted 45 new redbud trees on the course. This not only pays tribute to the course’s namesake, but will provide a variety of exciting challenges for years to come.

After many days of hard work, we’re thrilled to announce that Redbud is back open for play. Book your next tee time today at 580-276-4229 and see for yourself why we’re the Red River Valley’s No. 1 golf destination.

The post Redbud Gets A Facelift appeared first on WinStar.

Here at WinStar, we’re all about summertime. From warmer weather to enjoy by the pool or on the golf course to endless nights of fun and entertainment, we’ve been patiently waiting and now it’s time to celebrate summer the WinStar way. See what’s happening here this summer at the WinStar World Casino and Resort.

When you’re a guest at the WinStar World Casino Hotel, access to our glistening pool is just steps away. Featuring exotic landscapes and first-class amenities, you have everything you need for a day of relaxation. Soak away your stress with a dip in one of our two hot tubs. Relax with a craft cocktail in hand, courtesy of the Pool Bar. Enjoy the exclusivity of your very own private oasis with one of our cabanas located around the pool’s perimeter.

If you’re looking to be a bit more active, we suggest a round at WinStar Golf Club. Featuring two world-class courses and dozens of top-notch amenities, the golf club offers a true test for golfers at every level. Looking for something a little less competitive? Take a few hacks on the range before retiring to Legends Bar & Grill for an ice-cold refreshment on the patio.

After a day of fun in the sun, you’ll want to heat up on the gaming floor. With more than 8,400 of the most popular table and electronic games, your new jackpot could be right around the corner. There’s something for everybody, from classics like roulette and blackjack to our Hot New Games area. And with millions awarded in promotions each month, you’re definitely going to want to play with your Club Passport card to make the most of every spin, roll or turn of the card.

What’s there left to do, but enjoy some of the finest entertainment acts on the planet? At the Global Event Center, you’ll find some of the hottest names in music and comedy, like Jerry Seinfeld, Sugarland and Nick Offerman. You might even catch a prize fight when Bellator MMA comes to town.

One thing is certain: there’s no shortage of heart-pounding action happening this summer. Ready to join the fun? Book your stay today and see for yourself why WinStar World Casino and Resort is the place to be for all the summer fun.

The post Summertime, and the Livin’ is Easy appeared first on WinStar.

June 16 is Father’s Day and at WinStar World Casino and Resort we’re pulling out all the stops to treat the big guy to the best day ever. See what’s happening and make your plans to join us this Father’s Day.

Hit the Links

There’s nothing like hitting the links with your pop for a little bonding time. Snag a tee time at one of WinStar Golf Club’s championship courses and enjoy velvety-smooth greens, gently-rolling fairways and a day you won’t soon forget.

Enjoy a Steak

From a fine Roquefort Filet to a Prime “Cowboy Cut” Ribeye, your dad will enjoy pure bliss with the mouth-watering chops from Kirby’s Prime Steakhouse. Pair your steak with premium a’ la carte sides like Susie’s Famous Mashed Potatoes or Blistered Brussels with Bacon and Onion.

Smoke a Stogie

Discover the world’s finest hand rolled cigars at The Ring Tobacco Shop. Not sure what you’re looking for? Ask one of our tobacconists for their recommendation based on your preferences.

Win in a Big Way

It wouldn’t be Dad’s Day at WinStar without the opportunity to win big money! Join us for our Father’s Day Bingo Special, where all eligible male patrons will receive one free Father’s Day Special 3-On Bingo card and a dauber. Win the game and you’ve got an extra $500 in your pocket.

With so much to do this Father’s Day, there’s no reason to celebrate your dad anywhere else!

The post Dad is King this Father’s Day appeared first on WinStar.

With two championship-level, 18-hole courses laid out across 225 acres nestled in the Red River Valley, WinStar Golf Club offers a fun challenge for golfers at any level. Complimenting the area’s natural setting, the courses feature native prairie grasses and natural sandy areas, combined with immaculate TifSport fairways, MiniVerde Bermuda greens and world-class resort-style amenities. See why WinStar Golf Club is the place to be this spring.

Look like a Pro, Play like a Pro
The WinStar Golf Club Pro Shop is stocked with the finest apparel and cutting-edge equipment to get you geared up for your next round, including new Nike, FootJoy and TaylorMade products.

Grip it and Rip it
All eyes in golf turn to The Grid under the bright lights when the Volvik World Long Drive Championship returns to WinStar Golf Club in September, but the fun doesn’t start then. Get in on all the long drive action by playing our VIP Long Drive Championship giveaway. Select golfers in each competition this season and score points to earn a VIP trip to the championship.

With tees ranging from 4,800 to more than 7,100 yards, our two tracts offer an adequate challenge for the beginning golfer and the scratch golfer alike. See for yourself why WinStar Golf Club’s championship experience truly is the gem of the Red River Valley.

The post Golf is Good for the Soul appeared first on WinStar.

That’s what you can expect (and more) when you’re a VIP at the Volvik World Long Drive Championship.

In fact, when you play the 2019 World Long Drive VIP Challenge, you have the chance to win a one-of-a-kind prize package to experience the championship like never before. One winner will earn a two-night stay at WinStar World Casino Hotel, unprecedented access to the 2019 Volvik World Long Drive Championship with two VIP badges, a one-on-one lesson with a WinStar Golf Academy instructor, one round of golf for two at WinStar Golf Club, a World Long Drive prize pack and a $100 gift card to Kirby’s Prime Steakhouse.

But what’s it really like to be a VIP at the Volvik World Long Drive Championship? When we asked Jeremy W., last year’s winner, he said, “It was a wonderful experience! We played plenty of games and ate at several of the restaurants inside the casino. The actual event itself was awesome to attend. The VIP perks were definitely a plus!”

So how do you become a Volvik World Long Drive Championship VIP? It’s simple. Just enter the competition by selecting hitters who you think have the best chance to win the upcoming tournament during the 2019 World Long Drive season. When your selections win, you earn big points. The individual with the most points at the end of the regular season will be headed to the 2019 Volvik World Long Drive Championship. Remember, you can earn points for every regular season tour event, don’t forget to make your picks!

The post VIP Status at the Volvik World Long Drive Championship appeared first on WinStar.

But have you heard about our world-class staff? Here at WinStar, we’ve teamed up industry-leading teaching professionals from around the globe to bring elite instruction to the Red River Valley. We sat down with a few of our professionals to get to know them a little better.

Scott Bishop, our Golf Operations Director, has been with us at WinStar for four years. He has more than 35 years of experience in golf at the amateur and professional levels.

What’s your favorite professional golf experience?
I had the opportunity to caddy for Lee Trevino in a Champions Tour event for five days in 1997.

Who are your favorite current and all-time professional golfers?
I really like Jordan Spieth currently. Arnold Palmer is my all-time favorite.

What club do you reach for when you need to make par?
My putter!

What is the most prominent course you’ve played?
Pebble Beach

Bill Knodle has been a teaching professional at WinStar for the last seven years. Prior to joining our team, he was a police officer in South Florida and had teaching stops at PGA National and Floridian Golf Club.

What’s your favorite professional golf experience?
When I was 16, I played two holes with Jack Nicklaus at the Loxahatchee Club in Jupiter, Florida. It was the most excited and nervous I’ve ever been standing over a golf ball, but he was very nice and made me feel as comfortable as I could have expected to be.

Who are your favorite current and all-time professional golfers?
Rickie is my favorite current professional. My all-time favorite is Ben Hogan because of his determination. He struggled for years with his game, almost quit, changed his swing, survived a life-threatening car accident and came back to become one of the greatest ball strikers in the history of the game.

What club do you reach for when you need to make par?
The club that saves par most for me is my Lob Wedge (or 60 degree, as we call it). I use it for a variety of difficult shots around the green and it’s one I’m most confident in.

What is the most prominent course you’ve played?
St. Andrews in Scotland. After graduating college, I took a week-long trip with my dad to play St. Andrews, Carnoustie and a host of other great courses.

Elliott Sullivan is the newest member of the WinStar Golf Academy team. He’s been playing golf more than half his life and has an expertise in both putting and full swing.

What’s your favorite professional golf experience?
I had the opportunity to play a round with Greg Norman on my home course in Australia, which he designed.

Who are your favorite current and all-time professional golfers?
It’s a tie between Adam Scott and Jason Day, but my favorite of all-time has to go to Adam Scott. First Aussie to win The Masters!

What club do you reach for when you need to make par?
My putter.

What is the most renowned course you’ve played?
Royal Melbourne Golf Club in Australia.

With a complete lineup of teaching professionals that boast more than 100 years of combined experience, it’s no wonder why we see some of the world’s finest junior and professional golfers hone their game at the WinStar Golf Academy. Get a leg up on your buddies back home with personalized instruction from our award-winning team of professionals. Call the WinStar Golf Academy at 580-276-1754 to schedule your swing consultation today.

The post Golf is a Science, the Study of a Lifetime appeared first on WinStar.