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The Ritz-Carlton, Naples adds Greg Norman-designed Tiburo’n

Guests of the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Naples can now add the option of world-class golf to the list of extensive amenities, with the newly opened Tiburo’n, a 27-hole championship course designed by the legendary Greg Norman.

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Tee it up at Tiburo’n

Distinguishing characteristics of this new course are its dramatically contrasting elements, including very deep bunkers and unusual tangerine-colored coquina sand in the waste areas. There is no traditional rough on the course and the highest turf is maintained at a fairway height of one-half inch. By incorporating the natural landscape of the area, there are expansive areas of native habitat bordering the fairways.

The last nine holes, also designed by Norman, will open next year. In addition, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Golf Lodge, a 295-room resort located directly on the golf course, will open in late-2001.

The Rick Smith Golf Academy is another draw to this new course. Under the direction of the nationally acclaimed instructor, who includes Lee Janzen, Vijay Singh, Phil Mickelson, and David Duval among his clients, guests can enjoy the Academy’s advanced technology, including a free-standing video computer that videotapes a player’s swing for analysis. Lucky golfers may also get to work with Smith, who typically works with students three or more times a month during the winter.

Tiburo’n, Spanish for shark, is a five-minute drive from the resort (complimentary shuttle provided). Ritz-Carlton guests have priority tee times and can take advantage of a variety of golf packages (though the course is also open to the public). The temporary clubhouse will be replaced by a large upscale version later this year.

For more information, call (800) 241-3333 or visit The Ritz Carlton (www.ritzcarlton.com) website. To get to Sea Island, use the Expedia.com Flight Wizard to book a flight to Naples Municipal Airport (airport code: APF) or Southwest Florida Regional Airport near Fort Myers (airport code: RSW).