
Devil's Claw Course
Whirlwind Golf Club

About this course
Devil's Claw, at Whirlwind Golf Club, is a monument to Gary Panks and Cory Schrelber's desert golf architecture. Its design capitalizes on the Gila River Indian Community’s land and natural washes. Built in the modern desert style, the course presents a challenge of navigating undulating fairways framed by indigenous flora. Length and calculated risk taking is favored, not penalizing the wayward tee shot as severely as a traditionally-cut course. The fairways, while ample, feed into strategic green complexes demanding thoughtful approach shots. Located southeast of Phoenix, near Chandler, Whirlwind's Devil's Claw hosted the Arizona Intercollegiate, showcasing collegiate talent on a demanding layout. While it doesn't boast a history steeped in professional tournaments, its design offers a stern test for all skill levels. It is noted as a good place to play some non serious but challenging golf, a respite from the more traditional fare in the valley. The club is renowned locally for its casual atmosphere and a membership comprised of avid golfers rather than socialites. There is a noticeable sense of community, drawn together by a shared love for the game and the unique playing experience. And while the golf is the draw, the post-round fare, in particular, the club's fry bread, is another major element of the overall Whirlwind experience.
Rankings
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Best in USA
Best in AZ
Quick facts
- Location
- Chandler, AZ, USA
- Access
- Public
- Year built
- 2000
- Holes
- 18
- Designer
- Gary Panks
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 7,029 yards
- Difficulty
- 72.7/127
- Course Vaults score
- 7.4
Getting there
Whirlwind Golf Club sits just thirty minutes south of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), accessible via a straightforward drive through the Sonoran Desert that shifts from urban sprawl to open scrubland as you approach Chandler. Private aviation clients will find Chandler Municipal Airport (CHD) mere minutes from the club's gates, offering a more intimate arrival for those traveling by charter. The final stretch unfolds across desert floor dotted with native saguaro and creosote, the landscape growing more serene as you turn toward the club's entrance - a transition that marks your passage from the valley floor into one of Arizona's most meticulously crafted golf destinations.

FAQ
Common questions about Devil's Claw at Whirlwind Golf Club
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Devil's Claw at Whirlwind Golf Club has a Course Vaults score of 7.4 out of 10 based on 53 logged golfers.
Devil's Claw was designed by Gary Panks.
Yes. Devil's Claw at Whirlwind Golf Club is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Devil's Claw is 72.
Devil's Claw plays 7,029 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Devil's Claw is 127.



