Clark Dennis: “A Happy Golfer is a Better Golfer”

By Giorgos Tsiros

For the second consecutive year, the Legends Tour Trophy returns to Costa Navarino from June 12-14, bringing together former Major champions, Ryder Cup legends, celebrities, and amateur golfers for a unique blend of top-level competition, fun, and world-class hospitality. With courses designed by Bernhard Langer, José María Olazábal, and Robert Trent Jones II, the event offers thrilling golf in a breathtaking setting, along with the warm welcome and five-star experience that make Costa Navarino truly special.

Last year’s champion, Clark Dennis, secured his sixth Legends Tour title with three stellar rounds. As he prepares to return, we caught up with him to discuss his win, the Costa Navarino experience, and what makes the Legends Tour so unique.

Clark, where are you at the moment?

I’m in Texas right now, and it’s quite windy. We’ve had cold days, warm days, and now the wind is picking up—it’s typical for March here. But soon, the weather will settle, and it’ll be much nicer.

Do you get to play regularly between tournaments?

I do, though my home course has been closed for renovations since October and won’t reopen until later this year. So, I’ve had to find other places to play. But I play enough tournaments throughout the year that I don’t need to spend too much time on the course when I’m home.

Will you be returning to Costa Navarino this year for the event?

Absolutely! I’m really looking forward to it. It’s a beautiful place. My family was there last time—my son caddied for me, and my wife joined us—and we had an incredible experience. I think we’ll do it again.

Was last year your first visit to Greece and Costa Navarino?

Yes, it was my first time in Greece, and it was absolutely beautiful. The resort at Costa Navarino is amazing. We also spent a few days in Athens, which was fantastic. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to explore more of the country, but maybe this year we’ll dedicate some time after the tournament to see other parts of Greece—there’s so much to experience.

Were you surprised to find such a world-class golf destination in Greece?

Yes! Seeing Costa Navarino, with its four spectacular courses overlooking Navarino Bay, was incredible. My son, who’s a history buff, was telling me all about the Battle of Navarino and the historical significance of the area. The resort itself is stunning, and the way they’ve developed the golf facilities is truly impressive.

That’s high praise coming from someone who has played all over the world!

I’ve played just about everywhere, and as a golfing destination, Costa Navarino is right up there with the best. I think it’s only going to grow in popularity. It’s more affordable than many other European golf destinations, the food is fantastic, and they’ve done an incredible job designing and maintaining the courses. I really believe it’s going to become a must-visit spot for golfers in the coming years.

Many European golfers visit Costa Navarino, but would you say it’s worth the long trip from the U.S.?

Definitely. I’ve told a lot of my friends about it. There are direct flights to Athens from Chicago, Philadelphia, and other U.S. cities. I fly American Airlines since I’m based in Dallas-Fort Worth, but I know Delta also has nonstop flights to Athens. The journey isn’t as difficult as people might think, and from Athens, it’s a very easy drive to Costa Navarino—just three hours on a beautiful toll road. I would absolutely recommend making it a golf destination.

When competing on a new course, is it difficult to go up against players who may have had more time to familiarize themselves with it?

As professionals, we’re used to that. I often play courses for the first time in a tournament setting. You map it out, study the layout, and trust your game. If you’re playing well, you’ll perform well, whether you’ve played the course once or a hundred times. That said, having experience on a course does help. For example, I grew up in Fort Worth and played the PGA Tour event at Colonial for many years, which was always an advantage for me. But overall, professionals adapt quickly.

Does the beauty of a location influence a golfer’s performance, or is it purely a mental game?

It’s always more enjoyable to play in a stunning place like Costa Navarino, with the ocean views and great scenery. But when it comes to performance, it’s really about how you’re playing that week. Whether it’s a beautiful location or not, as a professional, you have to focus on your game. That said, if you’re not playing well, at least you can still appreciate being in such an amazing place!

Does having your family with you on tour make a difference in your game?

Absolutely. A happy golfer is a better golfer. When you have your family there, it helps you feel more balanced and supported. I’ve spent plenty of nights in hotel rooms alone, wondering what my family was doing, and that can make it harder to perform well. Having them with me makes a big difference.

Is the Legends Tour a close-knit community?

Yes, definitely. I’d compare it to a traveling circus—we’re a group of people who meet up in different parts of the world, and we’ve become friends over time. I played on the PGA Tour, and most of the guys on the Legends Tour played on the DP World Tour, so we had different career paths. But at this stage in life, it’s about enjoying what we do. We’re still competitive, but there’s a camaraderie. We celebrate each other’s successes, and it really feels like a family.

What makes the Legends Tour so special compared to other pro-am events?

It’s unique because it brings together professionals, celebrities, and amateurs in a way that allows people to experience what we’ve done our whole careers. The venues are world-class—whether in Greece, Ireland, or England—and the atmosphere is different from the PGA Tour, where it’s all about competition. At this stage, it’s about the experience, meeting new people, and making friendships. I’ve met some great people—celebrities like Brian McFadden, Keith Duffy, and DJ Locksmith, who I wouldn’t have known otherwise. It’s a truly special experience.

Golf clearly runs in your family. Did your parents play as well?

Yes, my dad was a golfer, and I have four brothers—we all played. My dad wasn’t a great golfer, but he was a single-digit handicapper. My mom played too. One of my older brothers played professionally, and my son played in college. He didn’t turn pro, but now he caddies on the PGA Tour. Golf has been a big part of my family for generations.

What do you love most about golf?

Golf is the ultimate individual sport. You can’t rely on teammates—it’s all on you. It builds character, teaches honesty, and creates lifelong friendships. It’s also a great networking tool—whether for business or personal relationships, golf opens doors. It’s the ultimate meritocracy.

Do you feel your game is still improving?

At 59, I don’t know if I’m getting better, but I’m always trying to improve. Golf is a lifelong challenge. Even Gary Player, in his 80s, is still working on his game. That’s what makes it so special—you’re always learning.

Would you recommend golf to someone picking it up later in life?

Absolutely. It’s never too late to learn golf. You don’t have to be great to enjoy it, thanks to the handicap system and beginner-friendly courses. There are also fun options like par-three courses and Topgolf, which make it more accessible.

Outside of golf, what are you looking forward to on your next trip to Costa Navarino?

The food was incredible—we visited some local towns outside the resort, and everything was amazing. My wife and I love sightseeing and history, so we enjoyed exploring Athens. Maybe this time, we’ll spend more time in the Costa Navarino region itself. Since I’m at the tail end of my career, I want to make the most of these experiences.

I hope you have another fantastic experience—and maybe another win!

I hope so too!