BraeBurn

BraeBurn Country Club (not to be confused with Brae Burn, the Donald Ross design of a similar name in Westchester County) is a Houston club that opened its first golf course during 1931. The route was designed by John Bredimus, a golf course architect active across Texas during that era.

His routing lasted for more than 60 years, until Carlton Gipson — another Texas name, albeit one especially focused in the golf-rich Houston area — gave the club an overhaul as it prepared for the 21st Century. Water is now in play at almost every hole along this 6,800 yard route. Somewhat ironically, none of the water hazards involved the club’s title body, Brays Bayou, a creek that provides the southern boundary of the club.

Although it may not be the biggest course in Texas (where, according to their tourism bureau, “everything is bigger”), Gipson saves the biggest hole for last. The final hole is a 540-yard par five where players will need to avoid a lake on the right side of the fairway from the tee, and also debate whether to attempt carrying the pond ahead of the green during their second shot.

As of 2021, Tripp Davis has broken down on a new renovation project at the club.