Conklin Players Club

The Conklin Players Club is a public-access golf course not located near any of the major population centers in New York. In fact, its spot just north of the state border with Pennsylvania means that the course may see equal attendance from two of America’s most golf-rich states.

Built at the onset of the ‘90s, many of the era’s tendencies are on display in the design, including a “signature” island-green par three at No. 10, and another short hole requiring an 170-yard pond carry to reach the putting surface. At the same time, there’s a more Rossian touch in the par three at No. 7, which features two vastly different tee locations to create a “7A” and “7B” option for players.

If you sense some quirk at Conklin, you should consider the architect. Rick Rickard had reportedly never played a round of golf when he decided to design and build the course. If you need any more idea of how Rickard’s mind works, consider the black glass pyramid visible from the No. 8 green: That’s where Rickard lives. Conklin Players Club is clearly a passion project, and fortunately one that he’s happy to share with the world.