A Vision Shaped by the Land
Set within the natural landscape of the Gila River Indian Community, Whirlwind Golf Club—home to the Devil’s Claw and Cattail courses—anchors a world‑class resort destination. Developed in collaboration with renowned resort planner WATG, the project was envisioned as an authentic desert retreat that reflects both the character of the land and the heritage of the community.
During the routing of the Cattail Course, Gary toured the property with Tribal Elders to better understand the cultural significance of the native vegetation. Those conversations informed a comprehensive salvage and mitigation plan designed to respect and preserve the landscape. One story in particular has stayed with him: a large mesquite tree once served as a place where community members would hang their sport coats before traveling into Phoenix—a quiet reminder of the land’s connection to daily life and tradition.
