Golf Courses of the World

Yes, the public is able to book a tee time to play the Players Stadium course at TPC Sawgrass.

As of March 2022, green fees to play the Players Stadium course at TPC Sawgrass (without lodgings) were US$600 per player between September and May (US$400 per player between June and August). This includes a cart, a forecaddie for each group and a warm-up bag of practice balls. There was no recommendation as to the number of balls generally needed to complete the course!

While Copperhead snakes are not found in that part of Florida, Cottonmouth (for the indigenous Cottonmouth snakes) was considered and rejected. The founders wanted a snake name, so Copperhead it was.

Founder, Harvey Jones, formed a company called Innisbrook Associates in late 1967 (he "borrowed" the name Innisbrook from a street sign in Toledo, Ohio). He then worked with realtors in Jacksonville, Miami and Tampa to search for land (500 to 2000 acres) to realise his dream.

On one of many trips to Florida, Harvey was walking some land in Tampa when he asked the realtor about land immediately south, on the other side of a barbed wire fence.

Although told it was "not available" Harvey hopped the fence for a closer look. As they walked through the woods and came upon Bee Pond (The Island Course) Harvey turned to the accompanying realtor and declared “This is Innisbrook”.

Acquiring that land is a story in itself but acquire it they did and they eventually "broke ground" in August 1969.

During construction of what was to become the Copperhead Course a ‘Name the course' contest was set up for the Innisbrook employees. $250 prize money was on offer!

Many names were submitted. One employee, Donny Cosgrove, submitted over 75 names. Donny was in charge of maintaining the fleet of golf carts and his extensive list had many entertaining names including Big Divot CC, Run Gator Run CC, and Skinny Squirrel CC.

Harvey Jones named the course Copperhead and announced Donny the winner not having the heart to tell him that the name was not on his list. Donny died thinking the name Copperhead was on his list.

The Copperhead course at Innisbrook Golf Resort was designed by Mr Larry Packard and opened in 1974.

It was the second of four courses to be built at the Innisbrook Golf Resort.

Larry worked on over 600 golf courses and was a former president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects.

Guest Contributor: Sam Jones.

Sam is Harvey Jones’ son and was with Harvey through the Innisbrook and Copperhead journey, including during the 'Name the course' contest.

Sam loves his golf and is currently a smooth swinging 21 handicapper.

There are 5 par threes on the North Course: the 4th hole is 228 yards (208 metres), the 7th hole is 284 yards (260 metres), the 9th hole is 171 yards (156 metres), the 11th hole is 290 yards (265 metres) and the 15th hole is 124 yards (113 metres) long.

In 2010 the North Course was unveiled after the completion of a five year project to restore George Thomas’ greatest design.

The North Course is hosting the 2023 US Open.

3, The North, South and West Course

The La Manga Club located in the Region of Murcia is regarded as one of the best sports resorts in the world.

The resort is home to three 18-hole golf courses and, in recognition of its 50 years of existence, and thanks to its high quality facilities and wide range of services, the resort's golf club was named ´Real Golf La Manga Club´ in 2017 by The Royal Household of Spain.

From the Back Tees:
North Course: Par 71 / 5,755 Meters / Course Rating 71 / Slope Rating 132
South Cours: Par 73 / 6,499 Meters / Course Rating 74,3 / Slope Rating 138
West Cours: Par 72 / 5,714 Meters / Course Rating 73,5 / Slope Rating 140

La Manga Club´s history dates back to 1972, when the Californian born golfer and businessman Gregory Peters invested in the construction of a complex which was similar to those that already existed in America. Built in less than 11 months, it was a pioneer resort in Spain because it was dedicated almost exclusively to golf. La Manga Club was the first resort in Spain to open with 2 golf courses, courses that opened during a time when golf was practically unknown in the area where it was located.

Peters put the historic golfer Gary Player at the center of the golf courses. He was later followed by Manuel Ballesteros, the brother of Severiano Ballesteros and Víctor García, the father of Sergio García. Over time, more facilities were added alongside these golf courses: a hotel, apartments, football fields and a centre with 28 tennis courts. This Tennis Centre was managed by one of the greatest names in world tennis: Manolo Santana.

Despite having passed through different owners, La Manga Club has always managed to maintain its original essence. It was around this time that the iconic building of the Wellness Centre was built, and it is situated at the highest point of the resort, with the best views overall. The number of apartments also expanded, as did the number of bars and restaurants that were on offer.

Today, La Manga Club, with 560 hectares (which is almost 6 square kilometers of land), continues to be one of the most recognised sports and leisure holiday resorts in Europe.

Facilities

Beyond golf, the resort includes a luxury hotel, numerous dining options, a spa, and a tennis center, making it a comprehensive leisure destination. The Grand Hyatt La Manga Club offers high-quality accommodations and amenities, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

Accessibility

Located just 35 minutes from Murcia International Airport, La Manga Club is easily accessible for international travelers, particularly from the UK, making it a popular choice for golf enthusiasts.

Activities

In addition to golf, visitors can engage in various sports and leisure activities, including tennis, cycling, and football, ensuring a well-rounded vacation experience

lamangaclub.com

There are 7 double greens, leaving only the 1st, 9th, 17th, and 18th greens as single greens.

• In the early days the holes were literally the same for the trip out and back. The players would play from different tees but over the same fairways to the same hole in the ground. Eventually, as popularity and numbers increased, the single holes become two holes and separated by a safe distance.
• If you add the numerical values of each two holes that share a green it adds up to 18 – every time. 2 and 16, 3 and 15, 4 and 14, 5 and 13, 6, and 12, 7 and 11, 8 and 10.
• The average size per putting surface is 22,267 square feet compared to 3,500 at Pebble Beach and 6,435 at Augusta.
• The largest double green – 5 and 13 is an enormous 37,846 square feet. Imagine the house you could build on that footprint!
• Below is a fun short video with Paul McGinley, 2014 European Ryder Cup captain, that gives us some idea of the size of the green. Especially watch from the one minute mark!

Size and Design

Large Greens: The Old Course features some of the largest greens in the world, with an average size of approximately 22,267 square feet. Some double greens exceed 37,000 square feet. This is significantly larger than greens at other famous courses, such as Pebble Beach, which average about 3,500 square feet.

Complexity

Varied Pin Positions: The greens are designed with folds, depressions, and pot bunkers, allowing for a wide range of pin placements. This variability can dramatically affect the difficulty of the course, with certain pin positions making it significantly harder to score well.

Strategic Play: The layout encourages strategic play, as players must consider not only their approach shots but also the potential for long putts and challenging slopes on the greens. This aspect of the course contributes to its reputation as one of the finest in the world.

Disney World Florida has four amazing golf courses.

The four main golf courses at Walt Disney World are Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course, Disney’s Palm Golf Course, Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, and Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course.

The 4 golf courses have garnered praise and prestigious awards for their superlative design, impeccable service, world-class amenities and overall playability throughout the years.

Each golf course has a pro-shop full of Disney golf gear.

There are 3 golf courses in Albufeira, Portugal: Salgados, Pine Cliffs, and Balaia.

There are 3 golf courses in Albufeira, Portugal.

Salgados is the only 18 hole golf course in the region and is situated within a nature reserve, home to many protected species of birds.

Pine Cliffs is a 9-hole golf course, with dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is fomous for it’s par-3 sixth hole. Golfers must carry a drive 200 yards over a dramatic ravine, nicknamed devil's parlour.

Balaia is a family-friendly par-3 golf course available to play without a handicap certificate. It’s the perfect introduction to golf for beginners.

There are more than 1,500 golf courses in Australia.

From traditional links style to championship courses Australia has some of the best golf courses in the world.

The Royal Melbourne West Course is ranked the number one course in Australia.

The National Golf Club in Victoria has over 3250 members. It has the most golf members of any golf club in the Southern Hemisphere. The National Golf club has four 72 hole courses.

Coral Cove Resort and Golf Club has the longest hole in Australia measuring 635 metres. It is one of only two par 6 holes in Australia.

The Nullarbor Links golf course is the longest course in Australia. The 18 hole par 72 golf course spans 1,365 kilometres from Kalgoorlie in Western Australia to Ceduna in South Australia.

According to golfinfo.at (2022) there are 157 golf courses in Austria.

Once played by Prince Edward in 1937 the Golf Club Salzkammergut is one of the oldest and established courses in Austria.

The golf season in Austria begins in most regions in April and ends in November.

Some of the top courses in Austria are: Adamstal (Championship), Schloss Schönborn, Fontana, Colony Club Gutenhof (West), Gut Altentann, Mondsee, Murhof, Diamond Country Club (Diamond), Eichenheim and Dachstein-Tauern.

There are an estimated 2,400 golf courses in Canada.

77% of the courses are located in Canada’s four most populated provinces: Ontario, Québec, Alberta and British Columbia.

The main golf season runs from the middle of April until the end of October.

Some of the top courses in Canada are: Cabot Cliffs, The National G.C. of Canada, St. George's G. and C.C., Capilano G. and C.C., Fairmont Jasper (Alb.) Park Lodge G.C., Cabot Links, Memphrémagog G.C., Tobiano G. Cse., Hamilton G. & C.C., Muskoka Bay Club, Fairmont Banff (Alb.) Springs G. Cse., Shaughnessy G. & C.C., Devil's Paintbrush and The Links at Crowbush Cove.

According to various sources there are around 500 golf courses in China.

Golf was banned in China during the Cultural Revolution and allowed to return in 1985. The first golf course in China was built in 1984.

For the general public golf is considered expensive in China. It is played mainly by rich people and businessmen.

Mission Hills Golf Club near Shenzhen has 12 72 hole courses. Mission Hills is the world's largest golfing complex.

According to Golf Monthly there are around 2,200 golf courses in England.

Founded in 1864 Royal North Devon is the oldest golf course in the country. It can rightly claim to be the cradle of English Golf and is regarded as the St Andrews of the South.

Some of the top golf courses in England are: Royal Birkdale, Sunningdale Old and New, Royal St George’s, Royal Liverpool, Royal Lytham and St Annes, Woodhall Spa - Hotchkin, St George’s Hill, Burnham and Berrow, Walton Heath Old, Hillside, Hankley Common, Ganton, St Enodoc - Church, Hollinwell, Swinley Forest and Formby.

According to Statista there are over 730 registered golf courses in France.

Dating back to 1856 Pau golf course is the oldest golf course in France.

The 2018 Ryder Cup Matches were played on the Albatros Course of Le Golf National in Guyancourt, a suburb southwest of Paris.

Some of the top golf courses in France are: Morfontaine (Grand Parcours), Les Bordes (Old), Chantilly (Vineuil),Fontainebleau, Vidauban, Saint Germain (Grand Parcours), Hardelot (Les Pins), Terre Blanche (Château), Le Touquet (La Mer) and Seignosse.

According to R&A "European Golf Participation Report 2019" there are 1,050 golf courses in Germany.

Germany is one of the largest golfing nations in Europe. Golf is one of the fastest growing sports.

The Homburg Golf Club, which was founded in 1899, is the oldest golf course in Germany.

All golfers wishing to practise their sport in Germany require a golfing licence - “Platzreife”.

Some of the best golf courses in Germany are: Hamburger Falkenstein, Budersand Sylt, Fohr, Gut Lärchenhof, Bad Sarrow, Winston (Links) and Bad Griesbach.

According to the R&A’s Golf Around the World 2019 report there are 494 golf courses in Ireland.

Ireland is home to over 25% of all the natural links courses.

Some of the best golf courses in Ireland are: Royal County Down, Royal Portrush - Dunluce Links, Lahinch Golf Club (Old Course), Tralee Golf Club, Portmarnock Golf Club, European Club, Waterville Golf Links, Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg, Co. Sligo Golf Club, The Island Golf Club and more.

The International Association of Golf Tour Operators named Ireland as the International Golf Destination of the year in 2004.

There are over 250 golf courses in Italy.

Most of the courses are located in the north and central parts of the country.

Francesco Molinari’s victory at the 2018 Open Championship has given Italian golf a boost.

Some of the top golf courses in Italy are: Circolo Golf Villa D'Este, Golf Club Biella, Marco Simone Golf Club, Royal Park I Roveri Golf Club, Acquasanta Golf Club, Verdura Golf Resort (East Course), Castelconturbia Golf Club, Circolo Golf Torino (Blue Course), Bogogno Conte Course and Is Arenas Golf & Country Club.

According to various sources Japan has around 2,500 golf courses.

Golf in Japan is very popular. Japan now has the second largest golf market in the world after the United States.

The first golf course in Japan opened at Rokkosan, Hyogo Prefecture in 1901.

Half of the golf courses in the whole of Asia are in Japan

Some of the top golf courses in Japan are: Hirono Golf Course, Hyogo Prefecture, Kawana Fuji Golf Course, Shizuoka Prefecture, Tokyo Golf Club, Saitama Prefecture, Naruo Golf Club, Hyogo Prefecture, Ono Golf Club, Hyogo Prefecture, Yokohama Country Club, Kanagawa Prefecture, Kasumigaseki Country Club, Saitama Prefecture and Osaka Gulf Club, Osaka Prefecture.

There are around 400 golf courses in New Zealand.

Established in 1895 the The Manawatu Golf Club in the Palmerston North suburb of Hokowhitu is the oldest golf course in New Zealand.

New Zealand has more golf courses per capita than any other country except Scotland.

Some of the top golf courses in New Zealand are: Tara Iti, Kauri Cliffs, Kinloch, Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary, Cape Kidnappers, Jack’s Point, Paraparaumu Beach, Millbrook, Royal Wellington and The Hills.

According to the European Golf Participation Report 2019 there are 106 golf courses in Portugal

The Oporto Golf Club is the oldest club in Portugal, established in 1890 by a group of British players working in the port trade.

The country's warm, sunny Algarve region alone counts for more than 40 golf courses, many of them world famous championship layouts.

Some of the top golf courses in Portugal are: Monte Rei Golf & Country Club, West Cliffs, Troia Golf, Quinta do Lago, The Faldo Course, Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort, Victoria Golf Course – Dom Pedro Golf, Oitavos Dunes Natural Links Golf, Estela Golf Club and Vidago Palace Golf Club.

According to various sources Russia has 32 golf courses.

Russia has a growing number of golf courses, but playing golf is still relatively new and not as widespread as in some other European countries.

The first golf course appeared in 1891 in the village Murino, Saint Petersburg Governorate.

The Moscow Country Golf Club was founded in 1993 and is the oldest golf club in the country. The 7174-yard parkland golf course was built according to the exclusive design of the American dynasty of architects Trent Jones and is one of the best in Europe.

Some of the best golf courses in Russia are: Tseleevo Golf & Polo Club, Skolkovo, Raevo, Pestovo, Gorki, Zavidovo PGA National, Moscow Country Club, MillCreek Country Club, Forest Hills and Peterhof Golf Club.

Scotland has around 580 golf courses.

The first record of golf in Scotland dates back to the 15th century.

The highest number of courses are around Glasgow (94 courses) and Edinburgh (67 courses).

Some of best rated courses are: St Andrews Old Course, Muirfield, Trump Turnberry - Ailsa, Carnoustie - Championship, Royal Dornoch - Championship, Trump International Golf Links, Kingsbarns, Royal Aberdeen - Balgownie, Royal Troon - Old, Castle Stuart, North Berwick - West Links, Nairn - Championship, Gleneagles - Kings, Dumbarnie Links, Prestwick and more ….

"When the Open is in Scotland, there's really something special about it." - Jack Nicklaus

There are over 450 golf courses in South Africa.

The Royal Cape Golf Club established in 1885 is the oldest golf club in South Africa.

Some of the best golf courses in South Africa are: Fancourt Links, Leopard Creek, Royal Johannesburg, Gary Player Country Club, Fancourt Montagu, Durban Country Club, Glendower, Arabella Country Estate, East London Golf Club, George Golf Club Joint, Highland Gate Golf and Trout Estate, Humewood Golf Club, Erinvale Golf Estate, Pearl Valley Golf Estate, St Francis Links, Blair Atholl Golf and Equestrian Estate.

There are over 400 golf courses in Spain.

70 plus golf courses are within the world renowned Costa del Sol, where the mediterranean sea meets the perfectly manicured fairways.

Especially in the southern parts of Spain golf can be played the whole year round.

Some of the top golf courses in Spain are: PGA Catalunya - Stadium Course, Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, Finca Cortesin, Golf Son Gual, Real Club De Golf El Prat Barcelona, Valderrama Golf Club, Parador El Saler, Real Club de Golf Las Brisas, La Reserva Golf Club and Golf Santander.

According to the European Golf Participation Report 2019 Sweden has 662 golf courses.

Established in 1902 Göteborgs Golf Klubb is the oldest club in Sweden.

Some of the top golf courses in Sweden are: Bro Hof Slott Golf Club, Falsterbo Golf Club, Visby Golfklubb, Halmstad Golfklubb Tylosand, Barsebäck Golf and Country Club, PGA of Sweden National, Sand Golf Club, Vasatorps Golfklubb, Ullna Golf Club and Vallda Golf and Country Club.

We could not find an accurate number. According to various sources there are around 15,500 golf courses in the USA.

The USA is the country with the most golf courses.

States with the highest number of golf courses are Florida, Texas, California, Ohio, and New York.

Some of the top rated courses in the USA are: Augusta National, Cypress Point, Pine Valley, Pebble Beach, National G. Links of America, Merion G. C. and Oakmont to name but a view.

There are around 11,500 public access courses.

According to ibisworld.com there are 9,473 Golf Course & Country Club businesses in the USA as of 2022, a decline of -0.7% from 2021.

In 2019 there were close to 39,000 golf courses in the world.

Approximately 80% of all the golf courses are located in just 10 countries: the United States, Japan, Canada, England, Australia, Germany, France, Republic of Korea, Sweden and Scotland.

Golf is now played in 206 of 251 countries. Almost 25,000 of worldwide golf facilities are open to public play.

Number of golf courses per country

• USA - 16,752
• Canada - 2,633
• Japan - 2,500
• England - 2,270
• Australia - 1,616
• Germany - 1,050
• France - 804
• South Korea - 798
• Sweden - 662
• Scotland - 614
• China - 500
• Spain - 497
• Ireland - 494
• South Africa - 489
• New Zealand - 418
• Argentina - 349

Golf courses per capita in 2007

• Scotland (9,379 people per course)
• New Zealand (10,374)
• Australia (11,063)
• Republic of Ireland (14,127)
• Northern Ireland (14,353)
• Canada (15,480)
• Wales (18,321)
• United States (18,514)
• Sweden (21,295)
• England (27,725)

Donald Trump (The Trump Organization) owns 19 golf courses world wide.

Donald Trump is a keen golfer himself. At the time he moved into the White House his handicap was 2.8.

The Trump Organization owns a vast collection of golf courses across the world from United States, Scotland to Ireland, America and Dubai.

Over nearly two decades (as he reported in his 2000–2018 tax filings), these golf courses had combined losses of $315.6 million.

Many of the courses are located in prestigious and scenic locations. For example, Trump Turnberry in Scotland is renowned for its stunning views and historic significance in golf.

Several of Trump's golf courses have hosted major championships and PGA Tour events. Trump National Doral in Miami, for instance, has been a regular venue for PGA Tour events.

Trump's golf clubs are known for their luxurious amenities, including high-end clubhouses, restaurants, spas, and residential communities.

Donald Trump is personally involved in the promotion and marketing of his golf courses. He has often been seen playing golf at his properties and hosting tournaments and events.

Membership at Trump's golf clubs is often exclusive and expensive, catering to a wealthy clientele. Some clubs have initiation fees and annual dues that run into tens of thousands of dollars.

Acquired in 2014, Trump Turnberry in Scotland is one of the most famous courses owned by Trump. It has hosted multiple Open Championships and is considered one of the best courses in the world.

Many of the courses have been designed or renovated by famous golf course architects such as Tom Fazio, Gil Hanse, and Martin Hawtree. Trump is known for investing heavily in course improvements and facilities.

List of Trump Golf Courses

• Aberdeen, Scotland
• Bali, Indonesia
• Bedminister, NJ
• Charlotte, NC
• Colts Neck, NJ
• Doonbeg, Ireland
• Ferry Point, NY
• Hudson Valley, NY
• Jupiter, FL
• Lido City
• Los Angeles, CA
• Miami, FL
• Pine Hill, NJ
• Trump International Golf Club
• Trump World Golf Club
• Turnberry, Scotland
• Washington, D.C.
• West Palm Beach, FL
• Westchester, NY

For the 12 months from April 1, 2022 accommodation at The Lodge starts at $1,045 per night and 18 holes of golf is $595.

As well as The Lodge, Pebble Beach also offers accommodation at The Inn as Spanish Bay from $920 per night and the Casa Palmero from $1,225 per night.

Additional golf related costs may include a cart fee of $45 per person or $15 for a pull cart.

Pebble Beach is a public access course, open to all golfers.

If you are staying at one of the Pebble Beach Resorts properties you can book a tee time up to 18 months in advance. Other golfers can only book 24 hours out and therefore will have less options available to them.

The golf course is located at the Panther National in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

The project is the first golf development to be constructed in Palm Beach County in about two decades.

The 18-hole layout will be a Jack Nicklaus signature design and Justin Thomas’s first attempt at golf course architecture.

Plans also include 218 luxury homes, a nine-hole par-3 practice course and extensive practice facilities.

"I started drawing golf holes on napkins as a kid, so this is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. To begin my golf course design endeavours with someone like Jack Nicklaus is a dream come true." - Justin Thomas.

“I am thrilled Justin has decided to take on this rewarding challenge and I’m confident this venture will serve him well, both on and off the course.” - Jack Nicklaus

How many Majors has Jack Nicklaus won?

How many Majors has Justin Thomas won?

There are 12 eighteen hole courses at Mission Hills Shenzhen.

Founded in 1992 Mission Hills is an exclusive golf resort located in the town of Guanlan in Shenzhen.

Accredited by the Guinness Book of Records, Mission Hills is the largest golf resort in the world.

There are another 10 courses at the Mission Hills group’s Haikou complex on Hainan Island.

Mission Hills Shenzhen has hosted over 100 major international tournaments.

Mission Hills Shenzhen is also the world’s only club featuring designers from five continents.

Mission Hills Shenzhen courses and designers

• World Cup Course: Jack Nicklaus, United States - Jack Nicklaus major wins
• Norman Course: Greg Norman, Australia - Greg Norman major wins
• Annika Course: Annika Sörenstam, Sweden - Annika Sörenstam major wins
• Els Course: Ernie Els, South Africa - Ernie Els major wins
• Vijay Course: Vijay Singh, Fiji - Vijay Singh major wins
• Faldo Course: Nick Faldo, England - Nick Faldo major wins
• Olazabal Course: José María Olazábal, Spain
• Matchplay Course: Ian Poulter and Justin Rose, England
• Ozaki Course: Masashi Ozaki, Japan
• Leadbetter Course: David Leadbetter, England
• Pete Dye Course: Pete Dye, United States
• Zhang Lianwei Course: (Zhang Lian-wei), People's Republic of China (par-3 course)

Pine Valley is a par 70

Pine Valley Golf Course, located in Pine Valley, New Jersey, is often regarded as one of the best and most exclusive golf courses in the world. It was founded by a group of amateur golfers from Philadelphia in 1913 and designed by George Arthur Crump. Opened in 1913, Pine Valley is known for its challenging layout, diverse topography, and pristine conditions.

• Pine Valley opened in 1914 with 11 holes ready for play.
• The slop rating, as of 2010, was 155 from the championship tees and a still tough 153 for the regular tees.
• There are no rakes at Pine Valley. The bunkers and other sandy areas are true hazards!
• It is a very private club and to play you must be invited by a member.
• The public is allowed in once a year in late September to watch the Crump Cup. Put it in your diary to walk this very special course!

Each course is simply named by number.

Pinehurst Resort is located at 80 Carolina Vista Dr, Pinehurst, NC 28374, United States.

Pinehurst was funded by James Walker Tufts in 1895. The first course was laid out in 1897 and the first tournament held was the 1901United North and South Amateur Championship.

Pinehurst No. 2 is the most famous course. It was opened in 1907 and designed by Donald Ross.

Pinehurst Resort is the second largest golf complex in the world. Mission HIlls Shenzhen is the largest with 12 golf courses.

Some of the tournaments held at Pinehurst Resort

• 1936 PGA Championship - Winner: Denny Shute
• 1951 Ryder Cup - Winner: United States
• 1962 US Amateur - Winner: Labron Harris Jr.
• 1994 US Senior Open - Winner: Simon Hobday
• 1999 US Open - Winner: Payne Stewart
• 2005 US Open - Winner: Michael Campbell
• 2008 US Amateur - Winner: Danny Lee
• 2014 US Open - Winner: Martin Kaymer
• 2014 US Women's Open - Winner: Michelle Wie

TPC stands for Tournament Players Club

The PGA Tour can use any TPC course to host a PGA Tour event rent-free.

These TPC golf courses allow golfers to experience courses played on the PGA Tour.

Amateur golfers can walk the same fairways as their golfing idols.

TPC Network courses the public can play include:

• TPC Harding Park, San Francisco, Calif.
• TPC Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nev.
• TPC Deere Run, Silvis, Ill.
• TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.
• TPC Colorado, Berthous, Colo.
• TPC Scottsdale, Scottsdale, Ariz.
• TPC San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
• TPC Four Seasons Las Colinas, Irving, Texas
• TPC Danzante Bay, Baja Peninsula, Mexico
• TPC Tampa Bay, Tampa, Fla.
• TPC Louisiana, Avondale, La.
• The Old White TPC, White Sulphur Springs, W. Va.
• TPC Dorado Beach, Dorado, Puerto Rico
• TPC Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia

Happy Gilmore was filmed at the Pitt Meadows Golf Club in Pitt Meadows, British Columbia, Canada.

The movie Happy Gilmore features several different golf courses in various scenes, including the fictional Waterbury Open.

The Pitt Meadows Golf Club is situated in the city of Pitt Meadows, which is part of the Greater Vancouver area in British Columbia. It is approximately 25 miles (40 kilometres) east of Vancouver.

The Pitt Meadows Golf Club served as the primary location for much of the on-course action.

Pitt Meadows Golf Club opened in 1963.

The mature 18 hole championship was designed by renowned Canadian golf course architect Bill Robinson.

A true links course is one that is built over the sand dunes that “link” agricultural land to the sea.

• One popular theory with regard to the origins of golf is that of shepherds, bored with tending their sheep over those sand dunes, striking stones with their shepherd’s crooks.
• Generally accepted as the best example of a links course is the Old course at St Andrews on the East coast of Fife in Scotland.
• There are courses built in the links style that are not situated in land that links agricultural land to the sea. Given the prestige associated with a links course some ‘links’ claims are somewhat dubious.
• Scotsman David McLay Kidd, the designer of the acclaimed Bandon Dunes, site of the 2020 US Amateur Championship affirms the concept of involving land that “links” agricultural land to the sea.
• Kidd, born and raised in Scotland and the son of a greenkeeper, has built an impressive array of golf courses around the world. As a teenager, he worked on his father’s golf courses, absorbing the learnings from debates between his father and his peers at St Andrews, Carnoustie, Turnburry and others of the best practices to manage their courses.
• Whilst Bandon Dunes is his best known work, we’d also love to play the golf course he designed for Austrian billionaire Dietrich Mateschitz on the Fijian island Mateschitz acquired and developed into a 7-star resort, Laucala Island.

It is the only fully-enclosed golf hole on the PGA Tour.

Grandstand seats completely surround the hole which can host up to 20,000 spectators.

There are also 275 skyboxes available, most of which are purchased by corporations.

It is also known as "The Loudest Hole in Golf”.

The 16th hole is the shortest hole on the Stadium Course at only 163 yards from the Black Championship tees.

The tee is slightly elevated and the green is guarded by three bunkers.

Hal Sutton scored the first hole in one in 1988.

But one of the most famous holes in one was scored by a 21-year-old Tiger Woods in 1997.

How many holes in one were there at the par-3 16th hole at the 2022 Phoenix Open?

According to an article published in GolfDigest in 2016, Royal County Down G.C. in Newcastle, County Down, Northern Ireland is the best or number one ranked golf course in the world.

Royal County Down opened on the 23rd of March 1889. It is one of the oldest golf clubs in Ireland and has two 18-hole links courses, the Championship Course and the Annesley Links.

The Championship Course is a par 71 and 7183 yards long. The rating is 75.0 and the slope 142.

"Royal County Down is located in one of the world's most naturally beautiful links settings in the Murlough Nature Reserve. Against the magnificent backdrop of the Mountains of Mourne, the links stretches along the shores of Dundrum Bay, zigzagging back and forth to provide a different vista from virtually every hole." - royalcountydown.org

The world's best golf courses

1. Royal County Down G.C.
2. Augusta National (Ga.) G.C.
3. Pine Valley (N.J.) G.C.
4. Cypress Point Club
5. Royal Dornoch G.C. (Championship)
6. Royal Melbourne G.C. (West)
7. Shinnecock Hills G.C.
8. The Old Course at St. Andrews Links
9. Muirfield
10. Merion G.C. (East)

According to the Guinness Book the highest altitude golf course is the Yak golf course at 13,025 feet (3,970m) above sea level in Kupup, East Sikkim, India.

The course is part of an Indian Army base and is 6026 yards long.

The course is often closed due to local weather conditions which can change rapidly.

What is the lowest golf course in relation to sea level in the world?

The Royal Melbourne West Course

Royal Melbourne is a 36-hole golf club located in the Melbourne Sandbelt, a region to the southeast of Central Melbourne which is known for its sandy soil. Several other significant golf courses like Commonwealth, Huntingdale, Kingston Heath, The Metropolitan, Victoria and Yarra Yarra are located in the area.

Founded in 1891, it is also Australia's oldest and continually existing golf club.

The West Course was designed by Dr Alister MacKenzie in 1926.

“Royal Melbourne’s West Course was ranked No. 1 in Australia and No. 5 in Golf Digest’s 200 Greatest International Courses 2018”

www.royalmelbourne.com.au

The shortest hole, at 109 yards (99.7 metres), on the PGA Tour as of 2021 is the 7th hole at the Pebble Beach Golf Links in California.

Pebble beach is a public golf course and hosts the annual AT&T Pro-Am.

The 7th is surrounded by six bunkers but is not the course’s most challenging hole, with a handicap rating of 18. But, if you slice the ball it might end up in the Pacific Ocean.

In 1965 Eddie Merrins had a hole in one. Playing into heavy winds, he used a 3-iron to score his ace.

The Royal County Down Golf Club was founded in 1889 by a group of influential business and professional men from Belfast.

The Royal County Down Golf Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in Ireland.

It has two 18-hole links courses, the Championship Course and the Annesley Links.

The Championship Course measures 7,186 yards (6,570 m) from the back tee. In 2018, the Championship Course was ranked as the best course in the world by Golf Digest.

The Club has hosted many important tournaments, starting soon after it opened, and continuing to the present day.

Some of the tournaments are:

• The British Ladies Amateur Golf Championship 2019
• The Irhis Open (1928, 1935, 2015)
• The Palmer Cup 2012
• The Walker Cup in 2007
• Senior British Open Championship (2000,2001,2002)
• and many more ...

Course Overview

Championship Course: This course is known for its breathtaking views of the Mourne Mountains and its rugged seaside terrain. It offers a challenging experience with its deep bunkers, undulating greens, and natural hazards.

Annesley Links: The second course at Royal County Down, providing a slightly less demanding but equally enjoyable round of golf.

Notable Features

Scenic Beauty: The club is set against a backdrop of the Irish Sea and the Mourne Mountains, making it not only a golfer's paradise but also a picturesque location.

Historical Significance: Royal County Down has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the Walker Cup and the Irish Open, enhancing its reputation within the golfing community.

Facilities

Clubhouse: The clubhouse offers dining options and a pro shop stocked with golfing essentials.

Practice Areas: Facilities include driving ranges and putting greens to help players refine their skills.

Recognition

Royal County Down Golf Club has consistently received high ratings from golfers and critics alike, currently holding an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on visitor reviews1. Its reputation as one of the top golf destinations worldwide makes it a must-visit for avid golfers.

royalcountydown.org

The Jumeirah Golf Estates are in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Jumeirah Golf Estates is a luxury residential golf resort consisting of 1,500 villas and townhouses which are set alongside two 18 hole golf courses, Fire and Earth, designed by Greg Norman.

Each year the Earth Course hosts the DP World Tour Championship, Dubai which is the season ending tournament on the European Tour.

Greystone Golf and Country Club

In 2016 the Regions Tradition moved to the Greystone Golf and Country Club and is held on the recently renovated Founders Course.

The Greystone Golf and Country Club has two 18 hole championship golf courses designed by two of the most revered names in golf course design; Bob Cupp and Rees Jones.

The Regions Tradition Tournament is part of the PGA Tour of Champions.

Former winners are:

• 2021 Alex Čejka
• 2020 Cancelled due to Covid-19
• 2019 Steve Stricker
• 2018 Miguel Ángel Jiménez
• 2017 Bernhard Langer
• 2016 Bernhard Langer

The Bay Hill Club and Lodge is located at 9000 Bay Hill Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States.

The Bay Hill Club and Lodge is an exclusive private golf club and hotel.

It was owned by Arnold Palmer from 1974 to 2016.

In opened in 1961 as an 18-hole golf course, originally designed by Dick Wilson.

Every year in March the course hosts the Arnold Palmer Invitational tournament, one of the 5 tournaments given the invitational status by the PGA.

Cedar Ridge Country Club is located at 10302 S Garnett Rd, Broken Arrow, OK 74011, United States

Cedar Ridge Country Club is a premier family oriented privately owned club.

The work on the course started in 1967 when a group of Tulsa businessmen headed by J.A. Buddy LaFortune, commissioned famed golf course designer, Joe Finger.

Finger considered Cedar Ridge one of his finest creations, praising its strategic challenges and natural beauty.

The course demands precision and versatility from golfers, featuring 87 strategically placed sand traps.

The course was redesigned by Tripp Davis in 2016.

It is described as demanding in terms of distance and accuracy.

Upon completion, Cedar Ridge was rated among the top hundred courses by Golf Digest.

Harbour Town Golf Links located in South Carolina in Sea Pines Plantation, 11 Lighthouse Ln, Hilton Head Island.

Harbour Town Golf Links is a public golf course.

The course was designed by Pete Dye in 1967 with the help of Jack Nicklaus. Dye also designed another course in the Sea Pines Resort, Heron Point.

Harbour Town Golf Links is a par 71 course and 7,099 yards (6,491 m) from the back tees which is relatively short for a PGA Tour event.

The course is famous for its finishing holes, particularly the par-4 18th, which is one of the most recognizable holes in golf. The hole runs along the Calibogue Sound and features the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse in the background, making it a picturesque and challenging finishing hole.

Harbour Town is known for its narrow fairways, small greens, and strategic bunkering. The course emphasizes accuracy and shot-making over power, requiring players to carefully consider each shot.

Since 1969, it has hosted the RBC Heritage which is played mid-April, the week after The Masters. The tournament is one of the most beloved stops on the PGA Tour, attracting top players and large crowds due to its unique atmosphere and challenging course.

The inaugural tournament, "The Heritage Golf Classic", was played in late November 1969. The winner's share was $20,000.

Harbour Town consistently ranks among the top golf courses in the United States. It is regularly listed in Golf Digest's "America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses."

As part of the Sea Pines Resort, Harbour Town Golf Links is open to the public, allowing golf enthusiasts the opportunity to play a course that the pros tackle each year.

Mount Juliet golf course is in Thomastown, Kilkenny, Ireland

The Mount Juliet course is classic Jack Nicklaus design with a mix of his ambitious and his mischievous approach to course design.

There are five lakes in play on six of the holes and more than 80 bunkers strategically placed through the course. The third hole is a great example with a 180 yard water carry over a beautiful lake from the back pegs. of carry over a shimmering lake.

The 11th, 13th and 14th holes are beautiful to look at but the greens are heavily guarded by bunkers and water. And just when you think the worst is behind you you reach the 16th with it's walled green almost entirely surrounded by a bunker.

To date, the Mount Juliet golf course has hosted the:

• 2021 Dubai Duty-Free Irish Open
• World Golf Championship in 2002 and 2004
• Irish Seniors Open in 1999
• Irish Open Golf Championship in 1993, 1994 and 1995

Source: https://www.mountjuliet.ie/

Pebble Beach is located on the west coast of the United States in Pebble Beach, California.

Pebble Beach Golf Links officially opened for play on February 22 1919.

Just 10 years after it opened, the star power of Bobby Jones introduced the golfing world to Pebble Beach at the 1929 US National Amateur.

Pebble beach is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world.

The greens fees are among the highest in the world at $525 for non-resort guests per round in 2018.

Major tournaments hosted at Pebble Beach

• 1972 US Open, Jack Nicklaus. First place prize money: $30,000
• 1977 PGA Championship, Lanny Wadkins. First place prize money: $45,000
• 1982 US Open, Tom Watson. First place prize money: $60,000
• 1992 US Open, Tom Kite. First place prize money: $275,000
• 2000 US Open, Tiger Woods. First place prize money: $800,000
• 2010 US Open, Graeme McDowell. First place prize money: $1,350,000
• 2019 US Open, Gary Woodland. First place prize money: $2,250,000
• 2023 US Women's Open scheduled
• 2027 US Open scheduled

Rich Harvest Farms Golf Course is located at 7S771 Dugan Road, Sugar Grove, Illinois 60554.

In 1987, Jerry Rich began to develop Rich Harvest Farms on his 1,820 acre property out of a love of golf and golf course design. What started out as one golf hole eventually turned into an 18-hole private golf course, built and perfected over a period of 10 years.

Set across 1,820 acres of rolling countryside in Sugar Grove, Illinois, Rich Harvest Farms is one of the Midwest’s most exclusive and demanding golf destinations. Conceived and built by visionary entrepreneur and Northern Illinois University alumnus Jerry Rich, the course evolved from a single practice hole in 1987 into a masterfully designed 18-hole championship layout that officially opened in 1999.

The Course

The course is consistently ranked in Golf Digest’s “America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses”.

From the professional tees the course is over 7,700 yards (7,000 m) long.

Rich Harvest Farms features diverse terrain—from wooded corridors and rolling farmland to open, links-style holes. Multiple tee boxes offer varying angles and distances, while greens range from intimate 1,700-square-foot targets to expansive 12,000-square-foot surfaces, making every shot a test of accuracy, creativity, and nerve.

Tournaments hosted at Rich Harvest Farms Golf Course

• 2021 – present Rich Harvest Farms Intercollegiate
• 2021 - Arnold Palmer Cup
• 2017 - NCAA National Golf Championships
• 2015 - Arnold Palmer Cup
• 2011 – 2018 Northern Intercollegiate
• 2007 - 2014 NCAA Men’s Division I Regional
• 2003 - 2012 MAC Championship

As the home course for Northern Illinois University’s men’s and women’s golf teams, Rich Harvest Farms provides year-round access to elite training facilities, including an indoor practice center. The long-standing partnership reflects a shared commitment to developing collegiate golf talent and growing the game.

Jerry Rich

Jerry Rich’s lifelong passion for golf design began as a caddie, sketching hole layouts on scorecards during his youth. Frustrated by traditional architects who either prioritized housing developments or couldn’t commit the time, Rich took on the design himself. Over more than a decade, he shaped each hole with a personal touch, guided by a bold risk-reward philosophy that demands both strategy and precision.

Royal Liverpool Golf Club is located at Meols Dr, Hoylake, Wirral CH47 4AL, UK.

The Royal Liverpool Golf Club was founded in 1869 and is one of the oldest golf clubs in England.

The location was initially used as a horse racing course before being converted into a golf course.

The original course was designed by Robert Chambers.

The most significant redesign was done by Harry Colt in the early 20th century, who transformed the course into the layout that is largely in place today.

Over the years, the course has undergone several renovations to keep it up to modern championship standards while maintaining its historical integrity.

The course, known as Hoylake Links, is a traditional links course characterised by its sandy dunes, undulating fairways, and challenging bunkers. It provides a true test of golfing skill, particularly when the wind blows off the nearby Irish Sea.

The 18th hole, known for its difficult tee shot and challenging green, is particularly famous and has been the scene of many dramatic finishes.

It is a par-72 course with a total length of around 7,300 yards for championship play.

The Royal Liverpool Golf Club has hosted many Open Championships in the past. The first was hosted in 1897.

Some of the most famous names in golf history have played here, including Bobby Jones, who won the Open Championship as part of his Grand Slam in 1930.

Tiger Woods won the 2006 Open Championships at The Royal Liverpool Golf Club with a total score of 270 (-18). Runner up was Chris DiMarco with a total score of 272 (-16).

Rory McIlroy won the 2014 Open Championships at The Royal Liverpool Golf Club with a total score of 271 (-17). Runners up were Rickie Fowler and Sergio García with a total score of 273 (-15).

The Sedgefield Country Club is located at 3201 Forsyth Dr Greensboro, North Carolina

The Sedgefield Country Club, founded in 1925, is a private club.

The Donald Ross designed golf course opened for play in 1926.

A par 71, the course offers five sets of tees to cater for golfers of all skill levels.

The Sedgefield Country Club is home to the Wyndham Championship and currently the only Ross course in the country to host a regular event on the PGA Tour.

Sheshan Golf Club is located in Songjiang District, Shanghai, China

Sheshan Golf Club was founded in 2004 as a premier private golf club.

The 7,266 yard (6,531 meter) par 72 18 hole golf course was designed by Nelson and Haworth Design.

Every year Sheshan Golf Club hosts the WGC-HSBC Champions.

Sheshan has proudly played host to PGA Tour players such as Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Rory McIlroy, and Lee Westwood.

The ‘Tour 18’ course in Houston replicates 18 of America’s best golf holes including 11,12, and 13 at Augusta National.

• At Tour 18 Amen Corner runs from holes 5 through 7.
• You can also replica holes ‘from’ Pinehurst #2, Harbour Town, Inverness, TPC Sawgrass, Merion and others.
• According to reviews on Tripadvisor the condition was poor back in ’17. It’s an appealing concept but if you want to give it a try you might like to check on the condition first.
• You can review each and every hole in detail on www.tour18golf.com.
• The video provides a nice overall visual of what you’ll find if you can make it to Tour 18 in Houston Texas.

Course Overview

Address: 3102 Farm to Market 1960 E, Humble, TX 77338

Phone: (281) 540-1818

Rating: 4.4 out of 5 based on approximately 600 reviews.

Course Features

Design: The course was designed by David Edsall and opened in 1992. It features 18 holes modelled after iconic holes from courses including Augusta National and TPC Sawgrass.

Layout: The course is known for its challenging design, with several holes inspired by famous courses.

Difficulty: The course is considered a challenging layout with protected greens and requires precise ball striking. It is particularly noted for its demanding approach shots and the need for strategic play.

Tour 18 Houston offers a distinctive golfing experience, appealing to those looking to play holes reminiscent of the most celebrated courses in the world, all while enjoying the local Texas landscape

The Caves Valley Golf Club is located at 2910 Blendon Rd, Owings Mills, MD 21117.

The Caves Valley Golf Club is a private, member-owned Club.

The golf course opened in 1991 and features 18 holes, each uniquely fashioned to suit the natural environment.

The course was rated 47th among America's best modern courses by Golfweek magazine in 1997.

In 2002 Caves Valley hosted the US Senior Open where Don Pooley defeated Tom Watson in a five hole playoff.

Caves Valley Golf Club hosted the 2021 BMW Championship August 24-29. The top 70 players in the world competed in this decisive PGA Tour FedEx Cup playoff tournament. Patrick Cantlay won the Championship

The Centurion Golf Club is located outside London on Hemel Hempstead Rd, Hemel Hempstead HP3 8LA, United Kingdom.

The club's name reflects the historical association the area has with the Roman era.

The Centurion Golf Club opened in 2013. It was designed by golf course architect Simon Gidman.

The course plays 7,100 yards from the back tees and even challenges the best golfers. There are 80 bunkers and 4 major water features which determine the characteristics of the course.

The Centurion Golf Club hosted the Golf Sixes series in 2017 and 2018 and the Aramco Team Series

The club is scheduled to hold the first event of the LIV Golf Invitational Series in June 2022.

East Lake Golf Club is located at 2575 Alston Drive SE, Atlanta, GA 30317

The East Lake Golf Club is a private golf club and part of the former Atlanta Athletic Club (AAC) established in 1898.

The golf course, established in 1904, is the oldest golf course in the city of Atlanta.

In 1913 golf course architect Donald Ross redesigned the course at East Lake.

In 1994, Rees Jones, son of the famous golf course architect Robert Trent Jones redesigned the original golf course at East Lake to its current layout.

East Lake Golf Club has been the permanent home of the TOUR Championship since 2005. The tournament was first played at East Lake in 1998 and has been held at East Lake 20 times since then.

The TOUR Championship is the culminating event of the PGA TOUR Playoffs for the FedEx Cup, with only the top 30 players on the points list qualifying each year.

East Lake Golf Course is located at 2575 Alston Drive SE, Atlanta, GA 30317.

Established in 1904 the East Lake golf course is the oldest course in the city of Atlanta.

The 18 hole course was originally designed by Tom Bendelow. In 1913 the course was completely reworked by the golf course architect Donald Ross. His layout survives as the basic design today.

In 1994, Rees Jones, son of the famed golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, restored the original golf course design to its current layout today.

The original clubhouse was destroyed by fire in 1925 and subsequently replaced by the current two-story Tudor-style structure, designed by acclaimed Atlanta architect Philip Shutze.

The East Lake Golf Club has been the permanent home of the TOUR Championship since 2005.

The tournament was first played at East Lake in 1998 and has been held at East Lake 21 times since then.

The club has also hosted the Southern Amateur and other significant amateur events.

East Lake is famously associated with Bobby Jones, who learned the game there and played his first and last rounds at the club.

Jones, who won the Grand Slam in 1930, was also president of the club in the mid-1940s.

His father, “Colonel” Robert P. Jones, was a long-time club president and director.

The El Camaleón Golf Course is located at Carretera Fed. Chetumal Pto. Juárez Km. 298, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico.

It opened in 2006.

El Camaleón is known for its unique design that incorporates various ecosystems, challenging layout, and its role in bringing PGA Tour-level golf to Mexico.

The course is the first PGA TOUR Golf Course in Latin America.

The 18-hole professional golf course was designed by Greg Norman.

It is a par 72, 7,024 yards long. It's rating is 74.8 and the slope is 139.

The course is open to resort guests and public, with preferential rates for resort guests.

It is considered one of the top courses in Mexico and Latin America.

The Gallery Golf Club is located at 14000 N Dove Mountain Blvd, Marana (Tucson), AZ 85658, United States.

The Gallery Golf Club was established in 1998. It is the only 36 hole private golf & country club in Southern Arizona.

It is known for its challenging yet enjoyable courses, stunning desert scenery, and history of hosting professional tournaments.

The club was originally developed by members of the MacMillan family, sold to Escalante Golf, Inc. in December 2016.

The North Course is a design collaboration between Tom Lehman and John Fought. The North Course is a par 72, 7,384 yards long.

The North Course was ranked #1 in Southern Arizona by Golf Digest.

John Fought also designed the South Course which opened in 2003. The South Course is also a par 72 and ,468 yards long.

The Gallery Golf Club has co-hosted the 2000 Touchstone Energy Tucson Open (North Course) and hosted the Accenture Match Play Championships in 2007 and 2008 (South Course).

The Grange Golf Club is located at White Sands Drive, Grange, South Australia.

The Grange Golf Club is one of Australia’s premier golfing venues with two internationally rated 18 hole championship golf courses.

The club was officially opened on 26 May 1928.

The Grange Golf Club is renowned for its high-quality courses, history of hosting major tournaments, and its association with golfing great Greg Norman. It continues to be a significant venue in Australian golf.

The West Course, a par 72 (6351m), was redesigned and reconstructed by Michael Clayton Golf Design with the redevelopment completed in 2007. The course hosted the 2016 and 2019 Women’s Australian Open.

The East Course, a par 72 (6485m), was reconstructed by Greg Norman Golf Course Design in 2012 and has produced a championship layout that will challenge and reward players of all skills. The East Course ranks in Australia’s top 50 golf courses.

The Grange Golf Club hosted the first LIV Golf tournament played in Australia, Friday 21st April to Sunday 23rd April 2023.

The 6th green at the Riviera Country Club has a bunker right in the middle.

• At 169 yards off the blue and 150 off the white, distance shouldn’t be the challenge. Line and length - that’s the key.
• Located in Pacific Palisades, west of Hollywood, the club has had many members from the entertainment industry. A few of note include Humphrey Bogart, Walt Disney, Dean Martin, and Gregory Peck.
• Not surprisingly, a number of golf oriented movies were filmed at Riviera including The Caddy (Martin and Lewis) and Follow The Sun about Ben Hogan.
• The video by a member of the public shows us the green and the bunker up close and personal.

More about the Riviera Country Club

The Riviera Country Club, established in 1926, is a prestigious private club located in Pacific Palisades, California. Renowned for its championship golf course designed by George C. Thomas Jr. and William P. Bell, Riviera is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the United States and the world. The course features 18 holes with a par of 71, extending over 7,322 yards, and is known for its challenging layout.

Historical Significance

Riviera has a rich history of hosting significant golf tournaments, including:

• U.S. Open: 1948
• PGA Championship: 1983 and 1995
• U.S. Senior Open: 1998
• U.S. Amateur: 2017
• Genesis Invitational: An annual PGA Tour event, originally known as the Los Angeles Open, has been held at Riviera since 1929.

In addition to these events, the club is set to host the golf competitions for the 2028 Summer Olympics and the 2031 U.S. Open, marking its continued prominence in the golfing world.

Features and Facilities

Riviera Country Club is not only known for its golf course but also for its extensive tennis facilities, featuring 24 courts. The club has a storied membership, including notable figures from Hollywood and sports, such as Humphrey Bogart and Walt Disney.

The course's design incorporates natural terrain and challenges, with Kikuyu grass fairways that affect ball behavior, making it a unique experience for golfers. The layout is celebrated for its strategic demands, requiring a variety of shots to navigate successfully.

The Greenbrier is located at 101 Main Street West White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia 24986, USA.

For more than 100 years, The Greenbrier has been known for world class golf.

The resort spans 11,000 acres with 710 guest rooms, 20 restaurants and lounges, over 55 activities and sports, and more than 35 retail shops.

It is owned by Justice Family Group, LLC, led by coal baron and Governor of West Virginia, Jim Justice.

There are three 18 hole resort courses and one 9 hole walking course.

It is one of America's most historic resort properties, adapting and evolving over nearly 250 years

The Old White Golf Course

The 18-hole golf course opened in 1914. It was named after the Old White Hotel, which stood on the grounds until 1922. The course was originally designed by Seth Raynor and Charles Blair Macdonald.

The Greenbrier Course

The course was originally designed by Seth Raymor in 1924. Jack Nicklaus later redesigned the course in 1977 to prepare the course for hosting the 1979 Ryder Cup.

The Meadows Course

THe Meadows was originally opened in 1911. It was later redesigned by Seth Raynor in 1923, expanded to 18 holes by Dick Wilson in 1962 and then redesigned by Bob Cupp in 1999.

The Ashford Short Course

It is a 9-hole walking course which features designs from some of the most famous holes in golf.

The International golf club is located at 159 Ballville Road Bolton, MA 01740, United States.

The club's history dates back to 1899 when it operated as a 9 hole golf course.

Located in Bolton, Massachusetts, just 35 miles northwest of Boston, The International Golf Club stands as a beacon of pure golf excellence steeped in over 120 years of rich history. Spread across 660 acres of rolling New England terrain, this private club offers an unparalleled golf experience featuring two distinct and championship-caliber 18-hole courses: The Pines and The Oaks.

The International traces its roots back to 1899 when it was founded as the Runaway Brook Golf Club, a modest nine-hole public course. Over the decades, it evolved through visionary ownership and architectural transformations. In the 1950s, Albert Surprenant acquired the club and commissioned renowned architect Geoffrey Cornish to design what became the Pines Course, which opened in 1955. Later, in 1961, International Telephone & Telegraph (ITT) took ownership and added the Oaks Course, crafted by famed architect Tom Fazio, further elevating the club’s stature.

Today, under the stewardship of Escalante Golf since 2021, both courses have undergone meticulous redesign and restoration—most notably the Pines Course by the celebrated Coore & Crenshaw team, who infused the layout with strategic sandy waste areas, native pitch pines, and fescue grasses, creating a course that honors its Golden Age architectural heritage while offering a modern, walkable, and engaging golf experience.

Now there are two courses, The Pines Course and The Oaks Course.

Pines Course

The Pines Course was built in 1901. In 1972, Robert Trent Jones was contracted to enhance the experience and modify many of the slick greens and challenging bunkers.

The Pines Course is a formidable test stretching over 8,300 yards from the back tees, once known as the longest 18-hole course in the United States. Its redesign has softened the brutal length while enhancing strategic playability, with wide fairways framed by natural grasses and a variety of bunkers that demand thoughtful shot-making. The course’s bentgrass greens are large and undulating, requiring precision on approach and putting.

Oaks Course

The Oaks Course which opened in 2001, is a par 72 and 7,112 yards long from the back tees. The course was originally designed by Tom Fazio.

The Oaks Course, opened in 2001, offers a contrasting parkland style with beautifully manicured waste areas and classic white sand bunkers. Measuring nearly 7,000 yards, it blends seamlessly with the rolling topography, providing a visually stunning and enjoyable round for players of all skill levels. The Oaks has hosted the 2022 LIV Golf Invitational Boston, attracting some of the biggest names in professional golf.

Hosting Professional Golf

In 2022, The International gained global attention by hosting the LIV Golf Invitational Boston on the Oaks Course, showcasing its ability to stage high-profile professional events. The club’s blend of history, championship design, and natural beauty positions it as one of New England’s foremost golf venues.

The Los Angeles Country Club is located at 10101 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90024.

The Los Angeles Country Club was founded in 1897 by a group of Los Angeles residents.

The club is known for its exclusive and private membership, attracting high-profile individuals from various industries.

The club is situated in a prime location with stunning views of the surrounding Beverly Hills area.

The North Course is a par 70 with a length of 7,200 yards (6,580 m).

The North Course was designed by George C. Thomas Jr. and William P. Bell. It is renowned for its challenging layout and has undergone several renovations to maintain its classic design.

The North Course hosted the 2023 US Open from June 15-18.

The South Course was also designed by George C. Thomas Jr. and William P. Bell. It complements the North Course with its own unique challenges and scenic views.

The South Course is a par 70.

The Mineshaft Bunker is greenside on the 15th hole of the Scottsdale National course at Scottsdale.

The Mine Shaft bunker at the Scottsdale National Golf Club is a distinctive and well-known feature of the course.

Scottsdale National Golf Club, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a prestigious and exclusive golf club known for its beautiful courses, luxurious amenities, and unique approach to the golf club experience.

The club is known for its challenging and beautifully designed courses.

The Mine Shaft bunker is named for its resemblance to a mine shaft due to its depth and structure. It is one of the deepest bunkers in the world, making it a notable hazard for golfers playing the course.

The bunker is approximately 20 feet deep. Its depth poses a significant challenge to golfers who find themselves in it, requiring skill and precision to escape.

Scottsdale National Golf Club's courses were designed by noted golf course architect Dick Bailey, with later enhancements by Tim Jackson and David Kahn. The Mine Shaft bunker adds to the course's overall reputation for providing a tough yet rewarding golfing experience.

Due to its depth and the difficulty it presents, the Mine Shaft bunker is often a topic of conversation among golfers who have played the course. Successfully getting out of the bunker can be seen as a badge of honor due to the skill required.

This bunker stands out as an extreme and unique feature in golf course design, intentionally created to be a talking point and a significant challenge for golfers.

Despite being a hazard, many people actually want to experience this bunker, even if just to take a photo.

• The course is owned by GoDaddy billionaire Bob Parsons. When he bought the course he wanted something different – and through various refinements, different he got.
• In Google Reviews the Golf Club has a rating of 4.6 out of 5
• Unfortunately you do need to be invited by a member to get on – so go find a member!
• Scottsdale National hosts what many who attend call ‘Golf’s Wildest Member-Guest tournament' – it's all about having (some wild) fun.
• Watch a few golfers having fun trying to extract their ball from the Mineshaft Bunker

Muirfield Village Golf Club is located at 5750 Memorial Drive Dublin, OH 43017.

The club was founded by Jack Nicklaus and is named after Muirfield, Scotland where he won the first of his three British Open titles in 1966. This victory was also part of the first of his three career grand slams.

The club was opened in 1974. A bronze sculpture of Jack Nicklaus is located in Muirfield Drive.

The Muirfield Village Golf Club is host of the Memorial Tournament which was founded and is still hosted by Jack Nicklaus himself.

The Oak Hill Country Club is located at 145 Kilbourn Road Rochester, NY 14618.

Oak Hill Country Club is a private golf club which was founded in 1901.

There are two 18 hole golf courses, The East (par 72) and The West Course (par 71).

Donald Ross, a legendary golf course architect, was commissioned to design two 18-hole courses, the East Course and the West Course, at the new location. Over the years, the East Course, in particular, has gained fame for its challenging layout and has hosted numerous major championships.

The East Course at Oak Hill Country Club is the only course in America that has hosted all six rotating men’s golf championships, including the 1995 Ryder Cup and the 1998 United States Amateur.

The East Course at Oak Hill is the club's crown jewel and is considered one of the finest golf courses in the world. It is known for its classic parkland style, featuring narrow, tree-lined fairways, deep bunkers, and fast, undulating greens. The course is also famous for its "Hill of Fame," where trees are planted to honor golf's legends who have competed at Oak Hill.

Some of the most notable golfers to win major championships at Oak Hill include Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino, and Shaun Micheel.

The East Course at Oak Hill is considered one of the toughest golf courses in the United States, with narrow fairways and small greens that are heavily bunkered.

The West Course, while not as well-known as the East Course, is still a high-quality layout and offers a slightly less challenging but enjoyable round of golf. It retains many of the design characteristics of Ross’s work but has been adapted for more recreational play compared to the East Course.

Tournaments Hosted at Oak Hill Country Club

• US Open: 1956, 1968, 1989
• PGA Championship: 1980, 2003, 2013, 2023
• Ryder Cup: 1995
• Senior PGA Championship: 2008, 2019

The 8th hole at Royal Troon is known as Postage Stamp.

Royal Troon Golf Club, located in Troon, South Ayrshire, Scotland, is one of the premier links courses in the world. The club was founded in 1878. It features two courses – the Old Course and the Portland Course. The Old Course is a frequent host of The Open Championship.

Royal Troon's Old Course is renowned for its challenging layout, historic significance, and the dramatic landscape of the Ayrshire coastline. Besides the Postage Stamp (8th hole), the 11th hole, known as "The Railway," is another iconic and challenging hole.

It's the shortest hole in The Open Championship rotation at just 123 yards.

The Postage Stamp is the 8th hole at Royal Troon Golf Club in Scotland, one of the shortest and most famous par-3 holes in golf. Here are some key facts about it:

• Length: The hole measures just 123 yards from the championship tee, making it one of the shortest holes in major championship golf.
• Design: The green is small and well-protected by deep bunkers, including the famous "Coffin" bunker on the left side.
• History: The hole's name, "Postage Stamp," was coined by William Park, Jr. in 1923 due to the green's small size.
• Challenges: Despite its short length, the Postage Stamp is known for its difficulty, with variable winds and penal bunkers creating a formidable challenge for golfers.
• Notable Moments: Many memorable moments have occurred on this hole, including a hole-in-one by Gene Sarazen in the 1973 Open Championship at the age of 71.
• The hole was originally called Ailsa after the rocky islet you can see from the tee. William Park wrote in ‘Golf Illustrated’ that the green was “A pitching surface skimmed down to the size of a postage stamp.” The official name for the hole was changed soon after.
• Ernie Els, Darren Clarke, and Phil Mickelson all named the Postage Stamp as their favourite hole on the British Open rota, when asked by the BBC.
• In the 1989 British Open at Royal Troon Greg Norman shot a brilliant final round 64. He bogeyed one hole – the 123 yard 8^th.
• Rory McIlroy shows how tough it can be as he takes 6 to get out of one of the bunkers in a practice round.
• Visitors can play Royal Troon and experience the Postage Stamp first hand. You need a handicap up to 20 for men and 30 for women.

This hole remains a test of precision and skill, contributing to Royal Troon's reputation as a championship course.

Tiger Woods described it as a "simple hole" where you either hit the green (good) or miss it (bad), highlighting its straightforward but punishing nature.

It's often cited as one of the best spectator holes in golf due to its potential for dramatic swings in scoring.

The Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club is located at 12930 NW Old Pumpkin Ridge Road, North Plains, OR 97133

Located only 20 miles west of Portland the Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club has two championship golf courses.

The Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club opened in 1992.

Tucked amid the scenic farmland of North Plains, Oregon, just 20 miles west of Portland, Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club stands as one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier golf destinations. This acclaimed 36-hole facility, founded in 1992, combines natural beauty, strategic design, and a rich championship legacy. With two distinct courses—Witch Hollow and Ghost Creek—both crafted by renowned architect Bob Cupp, the club offers an unforgettable experience for private members and public guests alike.

Pumpkin Ridge was the brainchild of developers Marvin French, Gaylord Davis, and Barney Hyde, who envisioned a course that embodied the character of the Pacific Northwest while meeting championship standards. Backed by Japanese businessman Shigeru Ito and his daughter Kumiko Rodewald, construction began in 1990, culminating in the club’s celebrated debut in April 1992.

That same year, Golf Digest named Ghost Creek the “Best New Public Course in America”, while Witch Hollow was honored as the #2 Best New Private Course, instantly establishing Pumpkin Ridge as a must-play destination.

Both courses were designed by golf course architect Bob Cupp.

Two Courses, Distinct Identities

Witch Hollow (Private)

The Witch Hollow course is a par 72, 7,071 yards which blends in with its natural surroundings, the Cascade Mountains.

The Witch Hollow course was named the number 2 Best New Private Course in the US when it opened in 1992 by Golf Digest.

The Witch Hollow was also home to the 1996 US Amateur Championship where Tiger Woods won his third consecutive US Amateur title.

The exclusive Witch Hollow course measures 7,017 yards, par 72, and is known for its championship-tested layout. Routed through dense stands of fir, maple, and oak, it demands precision shot-making and rewards bold strategy. Its large, undulating greens and natural elevation shifts challenge even elite players. Witch Hollow has hosted marquee events, including the U.S. Women’s Open (1997, 2003) and the LPGA Safeway Classic (2009–2012). The finishing 18th hole, a memorable dogleg with water in play, was famously called the favorite hole in the world by LPGA legend Nancy Lopez.

Ghost Creek (Public)

The Ghost Creek course is a par 71, 6,839 yards situated in picturesque wetlands and dense forests.

Ghost Creek offers a world-class public golf experience. At 6,839 yards, par 71, it flows naturally through wetlands and meadows, with Ghost Creek weaving through several holes to create risk-reward scenarios. Designed in the spirit of traditional, "old-world" golf, the course respects the land’s contours and delivers a peaceful yet strategic round for players of all skill levels. The routing emphasises walkability and connection to the Pacific Northwest’s lush environment.

Clubhouse and Amenities

The Witch Hollow clubhouse offers a refined, country estate atmosphere with high-end amenities: luxurious locker rooms, private dining, a full-service bar, and warm, inviting lounges. It serves as a gathering place for members and guests to relax and socialise in understated elegance.

The Ghost Creek clubhouse welcomes public players with all the comforts for a complete golf experience, including a well-appointed golf shop, restaurant, and practice facilities designed to prepare golfers for the challenge ahead.

A Storied Championship History

Pumpkin Ridge has earned national acclaim for hosting some of the most prestigious events in amateur and professional golf:

• 1996 U.S. Amateur Championship: The club gained international recognition when Tiger Woods captured his historic third consecutive U.S. Amateur title in a dramatic final at Witch Hollow—one of the most memorable moments in amateur golf history.
• 2000 U.S. Junior Amateur & U.S. Girls’ Junior: Hosted concurrently, marking the first time in more than two decades that both championships were held at the same venue.
• U.S. Women’s Open: Held in 1997 and 2003 at Witch Hollow, cementing the course’s reputation as a stern test of championship-caliber golf.

On the professional circuit, the club has hosted:

• The LPGA Safeway Classic (2009–2012)
• The WinCo Foods Portland Open, the Korn Ferry Tour’s regular-season finale, from 2014 to 2020
• LIV Golf Invitational Series (2022): Pumpkin Ridge was among the inaugural hosts, further adding to its major tournament résumé.

Quail Hollow Club is located at 3700 Gleneagles Rd, Charlotte, NC 28210, United States.

Quail Hollow Club is a private member club.

It is considered to be one of the finest courses in the United States.

The club is situated on a 257-acre woodland site, about seven miles south of downtown Charlotte and nine miles southeast of Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

Quail Hollow Club was founded by a group of 21 Charlotte-area businessmen, led by James J. Harris. The concept took shape during a meeting held at Morrocroft Farm on April 13, 1959. The Certificate of Incorporation was signed on December 18, 1959, and officially filed on January 4, 1960, marking the formal establishment of the club.

The golf course officially opened on June 3, 1961. It was designed by renowned southeastern architect George Cobb, best known for his contributions to Augusta National.

The property was once the largest dairy farm in North Carolina and was named for the abundance of quail found on the land. The club quickly became a cornerstone of Charlotte’s golf community.

The white Southern-style clubhouse, designed by Charles W. Connelly & Associates, was built between 1963 and 1967 and officially opened in September 1967. Inside, it boasts a grand ballroom with an oak floor, a library, a card room, multiple dining areas, and 15 fireplaces. The gentlemen’s and ladies’ locker rooms are located on the west side, with the men’s locker room featuring a grill and lounge areas adorned with paintings of the golf course.

The course was originally designed by George Cobb and has undergone modification since.

The 18-hole championship course at Quail Hollow Club was originally designed by George Cobb and has seen several significant renovations over the years. In 1986, Arnold Palmer redesigned four holes, and Tom Fazio later led major updates in 1997, 2003, and again between 2014 and 2016 to prepare the course for hosting major championships.

The course is defined by tree-lined fairways, bold bunkering, and elevated greens. The front nine is set on higher ground to the west, while the back nine descends roughly 80 feet to lower terrain in the east, winding toward a creek near the 12th and 13th holes. Water hazards come into play on the par-5 seventh and five holes on the back nine, including the renowned closing stretch known as the “Green Mile.”

Quail Hollow is celebrated for its demanding design and storied tournament history. It has hosted many prominent events, including the PGA Tour’s Kemper Open (1969–1979), the World Seniors Invitational (1980–1989), the Wells Fargo Championship (since 2003), the PGA Championship (2017 and upcoming in 2025), and the Presidents Cup in 2022.

The Real Club Valderrama is located at Av. los Cortijos, s/n, 11310 Sotogrande, Cádiz, Spain

The Real Club Valderrama was first opened in 1974 and was originally known as Las Aves (The Birds).

The Par 71 Championship Golf Course measures 6418 metres from the professional tees and was designed by Robert Trent Jones.

The course has been consistently ranked as number 1 in Continental Europe since the late 80’s and has been included in the Top 100 in the World since 1990.

It was purchased by Jaime Ortiz-Patiño in 1984, who oversaw its transformation.

Valderrama has hosted: the Volvo Masters, the 32nd Ryder Cup in 1997, World Golf Championships in 1999 and 2000, Andalucía Masters and more.

It is often referred to as the "Augusta of Europe".

It has a clubhouse with classic Spanish architecture.

It is a private club, but allows limited public play.

The Renaissance Golf Club is located in North Berwick, 20 miles (30 kilometres) east of Edinburgh, Scotland

The course was established in 2008. The course architect was Tom Doak.

At over 7300 yards with a par of 71, the back tees are not for the fainthearted. But the variety of tees, from 5500 to 7300, allow members to mix and match teeing grounds on a hole-by-hole basis.

Tournaments hosted at Renaissance Golf Club in Scotland include:

• 2017 Scottish Senior Open
• 2019 Scottish Open
• 2019 and 2020 Ladies Scottish
• 2021 Sctottish Open

The Riviera Country Club is located at 1250 Capri Drive, Pacific Palisades, California 90272.

The Riviera Country Club was founded in 1926 by the members of the Los Angeles Athletic Club.

The club called upon George C. Thomas to design a course that would challenge the world's best. After 18 months and 15 iterations of his design, his masterpiece and crowning achievement opened for play.

The Riviera Country Club is consistently ranked a top 50 golf course in the world and in the top 25 courses in the United States.

The course is a par 71 with a length of 7,013 yards (6,413 m) from the back tees, which has been lengthened to 7,322 yards (6,695 m) for Tour play.

Tournaments held at The Riviera Country Club

• US Open 1948 - Winner: Ben Hogan
• USPGA Championship 1938 - Winner: Hal Sutton
• USPGA Championship 1995 - Winner: Steve Elingon
• US Senior Open 1988 - Winner: Hale Irwins
• US Amateur in 2017 - Winner: Doc Redman
• Genesis Invitational 2019 - Winner: J.B. Holmes
• Genesis Invitational 2020 - Winner: Adam Scott
• Genesis Invitational 2021

The club is scheduled to host the Olympics in 2028.

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail encompasses 26 courses on 11 sites throughout Alabama, USA.

• All courses on the Trail were designed by RTJ Jr and were built simultaneously as a single project funded by the Retirement Systems of Alabama.
• Seven of the sites include a par 3 course to give you even more variety and flexibility.
• The courses bring great variety as they range geographically throughout the state from north to south, from east to west.
• 10 of the 11 sites are within a one hour drive of a sister site so ‘doing the trail’ is not an onerous travel expedition.
• You can find all you want to know – and more – in this Detailed Trail Guide.

More golf in Alabama

FarmLinks at Pursell Farms

Located in Sylacauga, this course has a rating of 4.7 based on 344 reviews. It is known for its scenic layout and well-maintained greens.

Kiva Dunes Resort and Golf

Situated in Gulf Shores, Kiva Dunes is rated 4.6 and features a beautiful coastal layout, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists.

Oxmoor Valley

Part of the RTJ Golf Trail, Oxmoor Valley in Birmingham has a rating of 4.5. It offers a challenging experience with picturesque views.

Craft Farms Golf Club

Also in Gulf Shores, Craft Farms boasts a rating of 4.7 and is popular for its two 18-hole courses designed by Arnold Palmer.

Gunter's Landing

Located in Guntersville, this course has a rating of 4.7 and is known for its beautiful setting along the water.

Old Overton Club

This exclusive club in Vestavia Hills has a high rating of 4.8 and is known for its challenging course and upscale amenities.

The Royal Greens Golf Club is located at C3XW+HRW,ِ Al Murooj, King Abdullah Economic City 23981, Saudi Arabia.

Royal Greens Golf and Country Club opened in 2017 and is a premier 18 home championship golf course.

Located in the upscale Al Murooj district of King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) approximately 100 kilometers north of Jeddah-Royal Greens Golf & Country Club has swiftly emerged as a flagship destination in Saudi Arabia’s expanding golf landscape.

Opened in September 2017, Royal Greens boasts an 18-hole, par-72 championship course designed by European Golf Design under the direction of Dave Sampson. Stretching just over 7,000 yards, the layout is a seamless blend of desert beauty and lush fairways, with water features woven strategically throughout. A standout design feature is its ever-changing direction—no two consecutive holes play the same way—making wind a tactical factor on nearly every shot.

The course is designed by European Golf Design (EGD) and is one of the best courses in the Middle East.

It is a par 72 playing a maximum length of just over 7,000 yards.

Operated by Troon Golf, the global leader in premium golf course management, Royal Greens offers an exceptional, luxury golf experience. The clubhouse, perched above the coastline, features panoramic Red Sea views and houses upscale dining venues, a private members’ lounge, cigar room, boardroom, library, and executive business center.

Royal Greens Golf and Country Club is on the LIV Golf Invitational Series Tournament Schedule.

Competitions

In just a few years, Royal Greens has built a reputation as a premier venue for world-class golf tournaments. It hosted the Saudi International-a European Tour event-from 2019 to 2023, attracting many of the sport’s elite players. The club has also been home to LIV Golf Jeddah, the Aramco Team Series, and the Aramco Saudi Ladies International, positioning it as a hub for both men’s and women’s professional golf in the Middle East.

Recognition and Reputation

Royal Greens has received numerous accolades, including: World’s Best Golf Clubhouse (2019) and Saudi Arabia’s Best Golf Course (2019 & 2020).

As the first top-tier championship course in the Kingdom, it has set a benchmark for excellence and remains a cornerstone of KAEC’s luxurious lifestyle offerings.

The Royal St. George’s Golf Club is located along the south eastern coast line in Sandwich, Kent, England.

The Club was founded by the surgeon Laidlaw Purves in 1887. It was intended to be a rival to St Andrew’s in the South of England.

The Royal St. George’s Golf Club is consistently ranked among the top courses in the world.

The club is full of history. In 1894 The Royal St. George’s Golf Club hosted the first Open Championship played outside Scotland.

Overall, 14 Open Championships have been played at the club. That's more than any other course outside Scotland.

The Royal St. George’s Golf Club is host to the 149th Open Championship in 2021.

Author Ian Fleming used the Royal St George's course under the name "Royal St. Marks" in his 1959 James Bond novel Goldfinger. Fleming was the Captain-elect of the Club at the time.

The Sea Island Golf Club is located at 100 Retreat Ave, St Simons Island, GA 31522, United States.

The Sea Island Company founder opened the first nine-hole course, Plantation, in June 1928.

Sea Island Golf Club has three championship golf courses, the Seaside Course, the Plantation Course and the Retreat Course.

It is one of the premier golf destinations in the United States.

The Seaside Course is a legendary Scottish links style, surrounded by tidal creeks, dunes, salt marshes, and the Atlantic Ocean. It is ranked in the top 100 courses in the United States. Along with the Plantation Course, it is the home of the PGA TOUR’s RSM Classic, a FedEx cup event hosted by Davis Love III.

The Plantation Course is a Mark and Davis Love III re-design of the course they grew up playing.

The Retreat Course is surrounded by towering Georgia longleaf pines, sleepy native oaks, and dramatic greens. It was also redesigned by Mark and Davis Love III in 2001.

The Sentosa Golf Club is located at 27 Bukit Manis Rd, Singapore 099892.

The club was officially opened by the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew (then Prime Minister) in 1974.

It is a private club, but allows some public play. Visitors can book tee times, subject to availability.

The club is ranked as one of the best golf destinations in Asia.

Sentosa Golf Club is home to two of the region’s most exclusive and challenging golf 18 hole championship golf courses, The Serapong and The Tanjong course.

The Serapong course is ranked within the Top 100 of Golf Digest’s World’s Greatest Golf Courses. It is a Par-72 and stretches 6,765 metres in length from the Championship tees.

The Tanjong course was originally designed by Frank Pennink in 1972, redesigned by Max Wexler and Chris Pitman in the 1990s, and most recently redesigned by Andrew Johnston in 2015-2016. It is 6,218 meters (6,704 yards) from the blue tees and has a Rating/Slope: 71.9/138 from the blue tees.

The Club has hosted a number of professional and amateur tournaments, including the Singapore Open, Open Championship Qualifiers, HSBC Women’s World Championship, Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, and the Women’s Asia Amateur Pacific Championship.

Southern Hills Country Club is a private club located in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The club is a private, member-owned country club and was established in 1935.

The facilities include a swimming pool, health and wellness centre, stables, bridle paths, polo field, skeet range, tennis courts and more.

The Championship Golf Course is recognized among the top 100 courses in the world and has been the host to 16 Championships since 1945.

The golf course was design by Perry Maxwell.

Stonehill Golf Club is located in Bangkok, Thailand.

Located in the Pathum Thani province, just north of central Bangkok, Stonehill is a private golf course that opened in 2022.

Stonehill Golf Club was on the 2022 LIV Golf Invitational Series Tournament Schedule.

The Trump National Doral Golf Club is located in Doral, Florida, United States.

The resort was founded by Alfred Kaskel in 1962.

Currently there are 72 holes of golf. The signature course is the Blue Monster at Doral.

The other three courses are Golden Palm, Red Tiger and Silver Fox.

Blue monster is a par 72, 7,510 yards and designed by Dick Wilson.

Silver Fox is a par 20, 6,557 yards and designed by Jim McLean.

Golden Palm is a par 70, 6,609 yards and designed by Raymond Floyd.

Red Tiger is a par 72, 6,101 yards originally designed by Robert von Hagge.

The Trump National Golf Club is located at 900 Lamington Rd, Bedminster, NJ 07921, United States.

Located approximately 40 miles west of New York City in the picturesque Somerset Hills of Bedminster, New Jersey, Trump National Golf Club Bedminster is a private, world-class golf destination known for its championship-level courses, luxurious amenities, and storied past. Spread across 520 acres of rolling countryside, the property once belonged to automotive legend John DeLorean before being acquired by Donald Trump in 2002 for under $35 million. What began as a stalled golf development, formerly known as Lamington Farm, has since been transformed into one of the premier golf venues in the United States.

The Club is owned and operated by The Trump Organization and has two championship golf courses and immaculate facilities.

2 Champtionship Golf Courses

The club features 36 holes of Tom Fazio-designed golf, divided between two acclaimed courses: The Old Course (opened in 2004) and the The New Course (opened in 2008).

Both The Old and The New Course are par 72 and designed by Tom Fazio.

The Old Course is ranked "Top 100 Courses in the World" and hosted the 2017 US Women's Open.

The New Course opened in 2008 and was named one of the “Best New Courses in the Country".

The Old Course is consistently ranked among the Top 100 courses in the world, celebrated for its classic parkland layout and championship pedigree. It served as the venue for the 2017 U.S. Women’s Open, won by then World No. 1 Sung Hyun Park. Measuring 7,291 yards, it offers a challenging experience highlighted by its elevated slope ratings, rolling terrain, and strategically placed bunkers.

The New Course, inspired by traditional links design, brings a distinct personality to the property. Featuring open sightlines, firm playing conditions, and creative shot options, it hosted the 2009 U.S. Junior Amateur, where future PGA Tour star Jordan Spieth captured the title. Both courses were developed under the direct guidance of Tom Fazio II and Donald Trump, creating a blend of architectural vision and competitive integrity.

Competitions

The club has earned a place on the global golf stage by hosting prestigious events such as:

• The 2017 U.S. Women’s Open
• The 2009 U.S. Junior Amateur Championship
• The LIV Golf Invitational Series
• Originally selected to host the 2022 PGA Championshi

In addition to professional tournaments, the club is a popular venue for private events, corporate outings, and elegant weddings, blending championship golf with first-class hospitality.

Torrey Pines Golf Course is located at 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States (about 20 minutes north of downtown San Diego).

Torrey Pines Golf Course is a 36 hole municipal public golf course complex which opened in 1957.

It's located on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

The name Torrey Pines comes from a rare tree that grows in the wild only along this local stretch of the coastline.

Torrey Pines has two 18 hole golf courses. The North Course and The South Course were both designed by William F. Bell.

The North Course was redesigned by Tom Weiskopf in 2016.

The 2008 US Open was played at Torrey Pines. Tiger Woods won against Rocco Mediate sudden death on the 19th hole after a 18 hole playoff.

Jon Rahm won the 2021 US Open at Torrey Pines. Rahm became the first Spaniard to win the US Open.

The TPC Craig Ranch Golf Course is located at 8000 Collin McKinney Pkwy, McKinney, TX 75070, USA.

The TPC Craig Ranch golf course officially opened in 2004.

It is part of the Tournament Players Club (TPC) network, which is a group of golf courses known for their high standards of design, maintenance, and playability.

TPC Craig Ranch is a private club, but offers limited public play and golf outings.

The TPC Craig Ranch is a par-72 championship golf course, designed by Tom Weiskopf, with a length of 7,438 yards.

TPC Craig Ranch is set on the rolling terrain of the Trinity River basin, offering a challenging but fair test of golf.

The course is known for its natural beauty, with the limestone banks of Rowlett Creek running through it, creating strategic water hazards on several holes. Mature trees, undulating fairways, and well-placed bunkers add to the challenge, making it a favorite among both professionals and amateurs.

The course has been rated as one of the "Best Golf Courses in Texas" by Golf Digest.

It is home of the AT&T Byron Nelson PGA Tournament. The course first hosted the tournament in 2021, marking its debut as a venue for one of the oldest and most prestigious events on the PGA Tour.

As a TPC network course, TPC Craig Ranch offers both private memberships and limited public access, allowing a wide range of golfers to experience its world-class facilities. Members enjoy privileges such as advanced tee time reservations, access to exclusive events, and the use of the club's extensive amenities.

The course is part of the TPC Network, a collection of premier golf courses around the world, and offers members access to exclusive benefits and amenities.

TPC Sawgrass is located at 110 Championship Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida 32082.

TPC Sawgrass was opened in 1980.

It has two 18 hole golf courses.

The Stadium Course was designed by Pete and Alice Dye. It is known to be one of the most difficult golf courses in the world. It’s signature hole is the 17th, a 137 yard (125 meter) par 3 with an island green. The course has also been featured in many popular golf video games.

The Course got its name from his stadium concept design where the stands are made of raised mounds of grass.

The Valley Course was designed by Pete Dye, Bobby Weed and player consultant Jerry Pate.

The Players Championship has been hosted at the club since 1982.

TPC Southwind is located in Southwind, Memphis, Tennessee 38125

TPC Southwind is a private golf club located within a gated community.

The 18 hole championship course (7,244 yards or 6,624 m) was originally designed by Ron Prichard, in consultation with two tour professionals Hubert Green and Fuzzy Zoeller.

The course record is 61 and is currently held by Jay Delsing (1993) and Bob Estes (2001).

In January 2012, TPC Southwind’s championship golf course was ranked No. 23 in Golf World magazine’s Exclusive PGA Tour Course Rankings.

TPC Southwind is the PGA TOUR’s only private golf club in the state of Tennessee and is home to the PGA TOUR’s WGC FedEx St. Jude Invitational.

TPC Twin Cities is located in Blaine, Minnesota.

Located in Blaine, Minnesota, just north of Minneapolis and St. Paul, TPC Twin Cities is a premier private golf club known for its championship pedigree, natural beauty, and world-class amenities. Opened in 2000, it is the only PGA Tour-owned property in Minnesota, and serves as a standout destination for both members and professional players alike.

The 18 hole championship course is 7,164 yards (6,551m) long. It was designed by Arnold Palmer in consultation with Minnesota native Tom Lehman. The course opened in 2000.

Set on a former sod farm, the course incorporates native rolling terrain, mature trees, and 27 water hazards, which come into play on 15 holes, offering both aesthetic appeal and strategic complexity.

One of the most recognized features is Palmer’s signature beach bunker on the par-3 7th hole, a visually dramatic hazard that demands accuracy. Elevated greens, sprawling bunkers, and expansive fairways define the course’s personality, encouraging aggressive play while penalizing imprecision. The finishing hole, a 596-yard par-5, is guarded by water and often decides matches with its risk-reward setup.

TPC Twin Cities is lauded for its wide, forgiving fairways paired with 72 bunkers and numerous water hazards, striking a balance between playability and challenge. The course features five par-4s over 450 yards and three par-5s over 590 yards, making both distance and control essential for scoring.

To accommodate all skill levels, the course offers six sets of tees, including a family-friendly forward tee. The greens average around 6,500 square feet, with subtle breaks and speeds that hover around 12 on the Stimpmeter, rewarding finesse and touch over brute strength.

In 2018, the course underwent a renovation led by Tom Lehman to prepare for the PGA Tour’s arrival. While the member layout remains a par 72, the course plays as a par 71 during the 3M Open, with the 3rd hole converted from a par-5 to a long par-4.

PGA Tour Venue: The 3M Open

From 2001 to 2018, TPC Twin Cities hosted the 3M Championship on the PGA Tour Champions circuit, attracting legends like Bernhard Langer and Hale Irwin. In 2019, it transitioned to host the 3M Open, a full-field PGA Tour event held each summer.

The 3M Open has quickly become a player and fan favorite, with the course offering a fair but demanding test. Wind conditions, firm greens, and penal water hazards have made scoring more difficult in recent years, enhancing the tournament's competitiveness. Winners have included Matthew Wolff (2019), Tony Finau (2022), and Lee Hodges (2023), highlighting the caliber of talent the event attracts.

Facilities and Membership

TPC Twin Cities offers one of the most comprehensive practice facilities in the region: a double-ended, two-tiered range, over 12,000 square feet of putting surfaces, multiple short-game areas, and dedicated bunker practice zones.

The 27,000-square-foot clubhouse features casual and upscale dining, men’s and women’s locker rooms, a professional golf shop, and elegant event spaces for weddings, business meetings, and private functions.

Memberships are available in several categories—Family, Corporate, Social, and Non-Resident—and include benefits like member tournaments, reciprocal access to other TPC Network courses, and exclusive social programming.

Surrey, England

Wentworth Club is an exclusive, privately owned golf club and health resort located in Surry, near London, not far from Windsor Castle.

In 1805 Wentworth was a private residence for the extended family of the Duke of Wellington.

By 1922 George Tarrand had established the site as the home of the Wentworth Club as we know it today.

Wentworth Club has been known as the home of golfing champions since the precursor to the Ryder Cup was played here in 1926.

Wentworth is also host of the BMW PGA Championship.

Today Wentworth Club is best known for its association with professional golf.

It has three 18 hole courses and one 9 hole par 3 course.

• The West Course from 1926. Designed by the famous Harry Colt.
• The East Course, also designed by Colt, in 1924
• The Edinburgh Course designed by John Jacobs opened in 1990
• A nine-hole par-3 executive course

Winged Foot Golf Club is a private golf club located in Mamaroneck, New York.

Winged Foot Golf Club is a private club, founded in 1921, by a group largely made up of members of The New York Athletic Club. The club officially opened in June 1923. Winged Foot's name and logo are taken directly from a sculpture in the lobby floor of the New York Athletic Club in Manhattan.

It has two 18-hole golf courses, The East Course (par 72 that measures 6,750 yards (6,172 m); course rating of 73.9 and a slope of 141) and The West Course (par 72 that measures 7,264 yards (6,642 m); course rating of 75.7 and a slope of 141). A. W. Tillinghast, one of the most prominent golf architects of the day, was hired to build the courses.

In its 2009-10 listing of America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses, Golf Digest' ranked the West Course 8th and the East Course 65th.

Both courses at Winged Foot have hosted major championship tournaments over the years.

Interesting fact: Ogilvy's 2006 winning score of five-over-par and Irwin's seven-over in 1974 represent two of the highest major championship 72-hole scores in the modern era of golf.

Major championships held at Winged Foot

• 2020 U.S. Open (West Course)
• 2006 U.S. Open (West Course)
• 2004 U.S. Amateur (West and East Courses)
• 1997 PGA Championship (West Course)
• 1984 U.S. Open (West Course)
• 1980 U.S. Senior Open (Eest Course)
• 1974 U.S. Open (West Course)
• 1972 U.S. Women's Open (Eest Course)
• 1959 U.S. Open (West Course)
• 1957 U.S. Women's Open (Eest Course)
• 1940 U.S. Amateur (West Course)
• 1929 U.S. Open (West Course)

Winged Foot Golf Club

Tom Doak is a golf course architect.

Tom Doak was born March 16, 1961 in New York and grew up in Stamford, Connecticut.

Doak went to Cornell University, after a semester at MIT, where he studied Design and Landscape Architecture.

Between 1982 and 1983 he travelled to Great Britain and Ireland to play and study their best golf courses.

He also caddied at St Andrews in the summer of 1982.

Doak spent three years working on construction projects for Pete Dye and his sons, learning how magnificent golf courses are built.

Doak's greatest influence comes from famouse course designer Alister MacKenzie who designed many courses around the world including the acclaimed Cypress Point and Royal Melbourne courses.

According to a list of the top 100 courses in the world, compiled by Golf Magazine, Doak has several ranked amongst them.

• Pacific Dunes in Oregon
• Ballyneal in Colorado
• Barnbougle Dunes in Tasmania, Australai
• Cape Kidnappers in New Zealand.

His course design company is Renaissance Golf Design. www.renaissancegolf.com.

Tom has also written four books about Golf Course Design

• The Anatomy of a Golf Course (1992).
• The Confidential Guide to Golf Courses (1996)
• The Life and Work of Dr. Alister MacKenzie (2001) by Tom Doak, James S. Scott, Raymund M. Haddock, Ray Haddock, and James Scott
• The Making of Pacific Dunes

Larry Packard was an American golf course architect who designed or renovated over 600 golf courses throughout his career.

Larry was born on August 13, 1912, in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. He passed away on January 29, 2014, at the age of 101.

He began his career in golf course design in the 1940s.

Larry was one of the first golf course architects to vocally address environmental concerns. He was an early advocate for using effluent for course irrigation.

His legacy in golf course design continues to influence the game today, and his courses are enjoyed by golfers of all skill levels around the world.

Some of the notable golf courses that he designed or renovated include:

• TPC at Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
• Sand Ridge Golf Club, Chardon, Ohio
• Indian Hills Country Club, Northport, Alabama
• Blackwolf Run Golf Club, Kohler, Wisconsin
• Whistling Straits Golf Club, Sheboygan, Wisconsin
• Olympia Fields Country Club, Olympia Fields, Illinois
• Pleasant Valley Country Club, Sutton, Massachusetts
• Ridgeway Country Club, Memphis, Tennessee
• Copperhead Course at the Innisbrook Golf Resort

Pete Dye was an American golf course designer.

Pete Dye, born Paul Dye Jr. was born December 29, 1925 and died January 9, 2020.

Pete qualified for and competed in the 1963 British Amateur; this was the seminal moment of his design career. After the tournament ended, and taking several weeks thereafter to tour the great Scottish courses, he was profoundly influenced by the features he saw.

His wife, Alice, was born February 19, 1927 and died February 1, 2019. She was often referred to as the “First Lady” of golf architecture.

Alice was a talented golfer in her own right. She won the 1968 North and South Women's Amateur and was a member of the 1970 United States Curtis Cup team. She also won the 1978 and 1979 U.S. Senior Women's Amateur as well as two Canadian Women's Senior Championships.

Together they were undoubtedly one of the greatest golf course designer teams ever.

Pete was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2008. He is only the 5th architect to be inducted to the Hall in the Lifetime Achievement category. In 2005, Pete was also awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from the PGA Tour.

The Old course at St. Andrews evolved into 9 holes 'out' and 9 holes'back' to the start. This became the default for all courses.

Early Scottish courses varied in the number of holes they had and the range was at least as wide as 12 holes at Prestwick to the 22 holes St. Andrews did have at one stage.

In 1764 the golfers at St.Andrews decided to combine four short holes in to two longer holes and this reduced the total number of holes on that course at that time to 18. Over a long period of time 18 slowly evolved as the 'standard' when new courses were created.