We didn’t just build a golf course—we created a destination.
As the only golf course nominated outside the USA, Chhun On Golf Resort, designed by Curley-Wagner Golf Design, proudly ranks among the world’s finest. We are honored to be recognized in Golf Inc.’s Development of the Year 2025. From the heart of Cambodia to international acclaim, our Lakes and Palms courses are redefining the standards of golf excellence.
THIRD PLACE (TIE)
Chhun On Golf Resort
Ponhea Lueu District, Kandal Province, Cambodia
Owner/Developer: Oknha Chetna Chhun
Architects: Curley-Wagner Golf Design
Contractor: In-house
Chhun On Golf Resort sits on a former 495-acre floodplain. Its two 18-hole courses were designed with the goal of helping to establish the area near Phnom Penh as a leading golf tourism spot.
The resort integrates many elements of Cambodian culture into the design. The rumdoul, the national flower, is represented in the shape of the clubhouse. Native sugar palm trees are in abundance on the Palm course and are also featured in the garden-like landscape of the Lake course. Both courses end at the 19th hole, whose island green is in the shape of Cambodia.
Both courses were routed to emphasize north-south hole alignment, taking into consideration the abundant sunlight. The 36-hole complex is located north of Phnom Penh and will soon be easily accessible by way of a new highway.
The floodplain was a challenge to overcome. Substantial dirt moving created 30-feet-deep lakes and generated the fill needed to raise the level of the holes. A diversion channel around the southern perimeter sends water into the Mekong River.
What the judges said:
“This is a well-conceived development on a massive scale. The golf course is attractive with a wide variety of holes and shot options. The golf course routing indicates that the course is well-conceived, and the architect appears to have dealt with the constraints of the expansive floodplain.” – Kevin Norby
“An incredible transformation of wasteland. The design is outstanding, with well-placed bunkers and a layout that impresses at every turn. To top it all off, the clubhouse is insanely cool. This one’s a winner.” – Darryl Bartlett
