Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/130253
iG1304--rev 5/12/13 11:52 AM Page 1 FACILTY PROFILE BY JEFF SUTHERLAND Paradise Canyon Adds To Its Top Notch Facilities Paradise Canyon has a long and enviable reputation as a premier golf resort. It does not take long to realize you are somewhere special as you head down the hill to this special resort. Protected by the hills and cliffs of the Oldman River valley, Paradise Canyon is an oasis. The intense colours of the manicured fairways contrast against the brilliant white sand of the course bunkers and the blue waters of the Oldman River. The piece de resistance is the "badland" effect the coulees provide as a stark backdrop. But that is only the beginning; the course garners praise from all those who tee it up. Golf Canada saw fit to award Paradise the privilege and honour of hosting the Canadian Amateur in 2008. Golf Digest has recognized Paradise Canyon as being among the top sixty courses in Canada and number one rated course in Southern Alberta. The resort accommodations offer luxurious condos and amenities that rival the best in western Canada. When new ownership took place last year people wondered if anything at Paradise could be any better. It did. When new owners, Ron Sakamoto, Clay Leavitt and Mike Fleischhauer took possession there was an immediate change to keep the resort Clubhouse facilities open for the full year. The Clubhouse has been expanded to accommodate 250 people and an ideal venue for weddings, receptions and tournament functions. The inspiration to expand and improve came from Ron Sakamoto who had a vision to further enhance the reputation of Paradise as the jewel of Lethbridge and Southern Alberta. Clay Leavitt was part of the original purchase group in 1998 and says this is a dream come true for him and adds he had been discussing probabilities with Ron for a number of years. Mike Fleischhauer has been resort General for a number of years. Continued On Next Page ALL IMAGES COURTESY FACILITY 76