Escalante Golf – a boutique owner and operator of luxury golf properties across 17 states – has acquired its 25th property, Canyata, in Marshall, Ill.
Founded by local businessman Jerry Forsythe as an exclusive golf retreat for his family and friends, Canyata opened for 18-hole play in 2005 and quickly garnered acclaim as one of the best private courses in the Midwest.
Molded from 400 acres of rugged, rolling farmland bisected by a deep ravine, the 7,200-yard layout – designed by Michael Benkusky – is best known for its immaculate bentgrass fairways and greens, beautiful water features and sculpted bunkers. The club’s mythical reputation is well-earned, as it is believed only 5,000 rounds of golf have been played at Canyata since it opened.
“It’s an honor to have the trust and support of Mr. Forsythe to build on Canyata’s impressive legacy,” said David McDonald, president of Escalante Golf. “Despite its Top 100 pedigree, the club is the textbook definition of a hidden gem; there’s so much potential for us to further elevate its standing as one of the game’s premier private golf experiences.”
With the acquisition, Canyata will become the home club for Escalante’s Icon Golf, a luxury golf and travel membership. Icon’s offerings will now include a national membership at Canyata as well as playing privileges at eight other Escalante-owned properties. This access to the Escalante network is paired with opportunities for Icon members to participate in an array of annual curated events. They include “Quests” (longer trips to top golf destinations around the world), “Experiences” (3-day, 2-night itineraries at Escalante clubs) and tournaments at places like Pebble Beach and other renowned courses.
The 15th hole at Canyata
“The Icon model is incredibly convenient for our members – all they need to do is book their flights to enjoy authentic golf and cultural experiences with a small group of like-minded travelers,” said Jeff Goodsell, president and founder of Icon Golf. “We’re the only luxury golf travel program combining this level of end-to-end service and attention to detail with no-fee play at a nationwide network of private clubs and resorts. And now with our acquisition of Canyata, we’re enhancing that winning formula by adding a home club boasting a Top 100 golf course.”
Only Icon members and their guests will be able to experience Canyata. This approach will help to maintain the sense of serenity that’s been a Canyata hallmark since its inception. Play will be limited to no more than 40 people per day, allowing the onsite team to introduce a host of small touches that will make the Canyata member experience unique in the world of golf.
“There are exceedingly few Top 100 clubs that are even accepting inbound membership requests, let alone any that offer such incredible value for $25,000,” Goodsell said. “This is an extraordinary opportunity to receive not only club access, but the many other advantages of an Icon Golf membership.”
As this next chapter begins for Canyata, change is already underway. A new general manager, Brent Allen, has been hired, as well as a new superintendent, Brock Burton. By the time member play begins in May, a clubhouse remodeling project should be completed. Landscape architect Randy Hoffacker of Destination Design has been engaged to develop a long-term land plan for the entire property, while celebrated golf artist Lee Wybranski has been retained to establish a fresh brand identity.
Notably, no architectural updates are currently planned for the golf course; instead, work will focus on improving its agronomic profile to encourage a firm and fast playing experience.
“Our team is grateful for the opportunity to bring the legendary Canyata to the American golfing community,” said Jeff Kindred, chief operating officer of Escalante Golf. “What was once a Top 100 myth in the corn fields of Illinois will be transformed into a complete experience to rival the best golf destinations in the world. Beyond remarkable golf, our vision includes a variety of onsite accommodations, a par-3 course, comfort stations, re-imagined world-class practice facilities, lit putting greens, a fish camp, trails and more. Canyata will be a retreat where golfers and non-golfers alike can unwind, share memorable moments and experience a lifestyle that’s as exclusive as it is inviting.”
Feature Photo: Seventh green and eighth tee at Canyata
Photo Credits: Patrick Koenig