Ohio Golf Journal June 2020

time, he was the founder of the Scandinavian Open and designed several courses, including the first course built in the Soviet Union. “According to Jack Nicklaus, my Dad was one of the greatest athletes he ever met,’’ said Johan. “He was also a real nice dad.’’ Sven, who died in 2011, started Johan in golf at age five. Johan made frequent trips to Florida after his parents moved to West Palm Beach in 1982 and attended college in Palm Beach. When the opportunity to acquire Eagle Marsh surfaced, Tumba and Sabel joined with two investment partners to complete the deal. Tumba is the chief operating officer and has taken a hands- on approach, with every aspect of the renovation. “The course never did close, but it was almost unplayable. I’m hands-on, cutting new lines for the fairways and shaping the course the way I want it, because we want everything to look good. We have a lot to do, but we’re making the course playable again.” The Jensen Beach Golf Club is also updating the clubhouse and the restaurant has re-opened. The multi-colored flags on each green may be the most striking I’ve ever seen. Tom Fazio II, son of Jim Fazio, consulted on the course renovation “We had Tommy here for five-six hours,’’ said Tumba. “He gave me directions on what to do, which I totally agreed with. He sees what a player might see, too. We opened up a lot of the vistas. This year is for cleaning up. In Phase 2 we’ll bring back the original design and start building some cottages. We’re in for the long haul.’’ The final thought from Tumba, “I fell in love with this course. It’s an absolutely beautiful place that just needs some tender loving care. We’re going to polish this gem up and make it beautiful again.’’