Chimera Golf Club (702) 951-1500
Las Vegas Golf Course Review
NOTE: In 2016 the nines were reversed (IE the back is now the front), with the purpose of providing a better rhythm to the layout, and a speedier pace of play.
Chimera Golf Club (formerly Tuscany Golf Club) in Henderson is the latest championship course to be built in the Vegas Valley. Designed by Ted Robinson, Chimera's claim to
fame is that of a player friendly layout with upscale conditioning and facilities, at prices that make it one of the best golf values in greater Las Vegas. Golfers will be pleased with
the beautiful surroundings and outstanding service and conditioning, as they play a layout that is enjoyable by the novice and experienced player alike.
As evidenced by the photos in this review, Chimera provides a spectacular visual experience, with sweeping scenic views of the Strip in the distance, plus incredible mountain
vistas framing the backdrop on many holes. A generous allotment of of beautiful palms and pines also adds to the aesthetic quality. Lushly landscaped, contoured fairways
provide wide landing areas that lead to mildly undulating green complexes - many tightly guarded by arroyos and bunkers that make good iron play essential to scoring well. Four
sets of tees are thoughtfully interspersed to provide yardages/slopes measuring 6757 yards/124 slope from the Verde tees, 6359 yards/122 slope for men and 132 for women,
5897 yards 118 slope for men and 126 for women, and 5230 yards with a 101 slope for men and 117 for ladies hitting from the forward tees. The tee area are named after
Pegasus, Serpent, Goat and Lion. On course golfers will find that the cart paths are permanently marked at 100, 150 and 200 yards, and sprinkler heads are measured to the
center of the green. Pin placement sheets are located in the front of the lushly upholstered golf carts, which also include ball/club washers plus ice chests.
A group of relatively short par fours create some interesting risk/reward opportunities, affording long hitters a chance to set up for possible eagles and likely birdies. The 292 yard
par four 16thth is reachable off the tee, though a set of deep front bunkers may convince golfers to take a more cautious approach. There also are opportunities to cut distances
with accurate shots over lakes or ponds, on doglegs that require both distance and accuracy. The 436 yard 9th and 402 yard 18th are wonderful finishing holes on each side,
with beautiful water hazards adding character and challenge to their designs. The former doglegs left around a lake with a narrow fairway creating one of the most daunting tee
shots of the day, and the latter turns to the right with an approach over a pond that is fed by a lushly landscaped water fall that cascades just short of the green complex. There
also are a couple holes that feature carries over water off the tee.
As with all great designs, Chimera presents an interesting group of par threes. These four holes measure between 159 and 200 yards from the tips, with the 200 yard 6th a good
challenge as the 11th ranked hole. Hazards in the form of waste areas, sand bunkers and water are highlighted on each of these holes, which for the average golfer (playing from
the GOAT tees) can be played with short or mid irons. Though the putting surfaces are often contoured, the surrounding complexes provide ample opportunities for recoveries.
The par fives are also reasonable in length, and are reachable in two for long hitters.
Our day at Chimera was a special experience. We found the layout to fair yet challenging - and the price is certainly right. It was great to find the course in wonderful shape. The design presents an ebb and flow that allows golfers to get into a rhythm, with the opening holes on each side providing opportunities to get off to a good start. The 34,000 square
foot clubhouse facility provides stunning pools, tennis and basketball courts, play areas and other recreational opportunities. The Chimera residential community opened its first
neighborhood in early 2005. For more info on the golf course and community, visit our page for Chimera (with direct link to their website) on our web catalog of courses to play in
Vegas by clicking here.
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