Hamilton Farm (The Hickory) - New Jersey - USA

Soon after Hamilton Farm was established in 1911, the owners constructed an enormous 50-stall equestrian stable, turning it into one of the most important horse centres in the country. Indeed today, it serves as the headquarters for the US Equestrian Team, which uses the facility for Olympic competition training.

Adjacent to the stables lies a rather unusual golfing configuration that was crafted in 1998 and it features an 18-hole championship course, called The Highlands, and a short 18-hole layout named The Hickory, which is the only USGA rated par three course in the country.

Challenging holes on The Hickory course measure between 127 and 229 yards and it’s a favourite destination for one of our most respected contributors, M. James Ward, who commented as follows:

“If one were to measure the greatness of a course simply through exclusiveness and total attention to customer service then Hamilton Farm would be high in the pecking order. The facility was created to provide a private oasis which would transport members and their guests from the 24/7 cluttered world that operates beyond its high gates. In that sense, Hamilton Farm most certainly accomplishes that.

For those who do get the opportunity to play The Highlands course, be sure to head to The Hickory par three layout. It's arguably among the very best in America. Too bad the main layout could not be as thought provoking.”