More questions than answers surround 2019’s biggest golf events
by M. James Ward
A new year is already underway and key design and course issues will certainly merit attention – especially when the game's biggest events are contested later this year. Not only will eyeballs be gazing intently to see how courses are prepared, but events in 2019 will also be impacted by the dates they are staged on the calendar. For players, the wherewithal to adjust will clearly be called upon.
Architectural changes will be closely studied to see if the desired result actually works in concert with the original design. Much of the situation will rest with Mother Nature – either facilitating the optimum or conversely limiting the options available.
Clearly, a series of questions – some similar and others different – will be at the forefront to be answered and how they are handled could well determine the success of the respective events.
What conditions and turf will players face when contesting The Players Championship in March?
The Players Championship is often tagged as "Golf's 5th major" and there's little question TPC Sawgrass has clearly played a starring role as host with its strong stretch of finishing holes highlighted by the devilish par-3 17th and its island green.
For the first time since 2006, the flagship event for the PGA Tour will now head back to the time frame when the original event was played. That will mean a number of interesting dimensions, mainly from Mother Nature. Wind speeds in March in the greater Jacksonville area can be especially breezy and the turf will be at a different point in the growing season so early in the spring versus the warmer days in May.
Pete Dye, the brainchild behind the design, has tweaked the course numerous times over the years and his stated aim (at the behest of then Commissioner Deane Beman) was to have a stern layout that would provide opportunities for all types of players and not be so easily categorized.
This year's event will certainly showcase an architectural puzzle of the highest order. One can only wonder if high winds do blow what the total number of balls will be that find the water at the always-dangerous 17th?
What "improvements" will Augusta National unveil this April?
Former Masters majordomo Clifford Roberts was famous for rebuking a golf writer who asked him about "changes" to Augusta National. Roberts abruptly cut him off in going further and curtly replied, "we don't change Augusta – we improve it."
Although the course is still touted as a Bobby Jones / Alister MacKenzie creation the reality is a bit more complicated than that. Augusta National has always been updated, modified, altered – call it what you will – over the years since it first opened.
In recent years the course has added significant yardage, included a "second cut" of grass just off the fairway and inserted a plethora of trees to taper in the previously much wider landing areas. Much of that has been done to keep the course competitive, as players have become longer and stronger over the years.
The fundamental vision of Jones and MacKenzie was to create a parkland layout reminiscent of The Old Course at St. Andrews. That vision has been seriously altered and some may argue, quite pervasively, that the existing course bears far little to what Jones and MacKenzie envisioned.
Now under the stewardship of a new chairman – Fred Ridley – the desire to keep the course competitive has continued forward, and with the 2019 Masters we may see new versions of both the 5th and 13th holes, to name just two situations.
Extending the length of the aforementioned holes is just another indicator that Augusta will not surrender to whatever improvements come forward via club and ball technology. One might have wondered instead of going down this never ending road why the powers that be at Augusta had not simply opted to mandate a "Masters golf ball" which all competitors would be obligated to play for the event. Does anyone seriously believe that if a "Masters golf ball" were pursued any golfer would not conform and use it in order to snare a green jacket?
Will Bethpage Black be sufficiently prepared to host the first PGA Championship in May?
When the PGA Championship is played this May it will mark a major change by the PGA of America to move from the back of the line (as it had for many years when the event was played in August) to the second position following The Masters.
The belief that moving the event to May would garner more visibility and add luster to a major still viewed as being a good step behind the other three.
Going to May does open doors for other locations of America to now possibly host the event. This is especially so for locations in the southeast and most particularly Texas. But, the PGA of America had previously signed contracts for certain venues in the northeast to stage the event before the switch in the calendar came to pass. The first comes with Bethpage State Park and its illustrious Black Course.
The A.W. Tillinghast layout looks to hold its 3rd major championship along with its first PGA Championship this spring.
The question is a simple one. Can the Black Course be ready turf-wise given the mid-May time frame? In the previous two other majors (US Opens in 2002 and 2009) the Black endured a deluge of rain, which nearly upstaged the actual event. No one doubts the pedigree of the course but Mother Nature may play a leading role in how matters are decided for possession of the Wannamaker Trophy.
One last thought. The northeast will also host the PGA Championship in 2023 at storied Oak Hill. If a Long Island location is questionable for the timing, then be prepared for an even higher hurdle to climb when the event heads to Rochester a few years hence.
How will Pebble Beach, marking its milestone 100th anniversary, be set-up for the US Open?
The United States Golf Association (USGA) has endured plenty of vitriol for the manner in which it has prepared recent US Open venues. The crowning achievement came at last year's event at Shinnecock Hills with the 3rd round meltdown when several pin positions were placed too near to the edges of the greens.
This year's event returns for the 6th time to the much celebrated Pebble Beach Golf Links on the Monterey Peninsula. The facility will be hosting its 100th anniversary since its founding and the pressure will be on the USGA to create a challenge that tests the best players to the max but does not cross lines in which the host site is compromised or called into question.
A trial run was held last year when Pebble played host to the US Amateur. But, the Open is another matter, and getting the course sufficiently firm and fast will be just one of several aspects to watch.
Since the last Open in 2010 the course has been upgraded in several meaningful ways. The putting surface at the par-5 14th was considerably improved to provide other pin locations, and the iconic par-3 17th has had its frontal bunker lowered so that approach shots are possible to hold when the pin is placed on the ultra-demanding left side.
Additional tees have been added at the par-4 9th which can stretch the hole beyond 500 yards. The challenging green at the par-4 13th was also altered by adding 400 square feet to the right side, opening up new pin positions. There's also a frontal tee pad at the par-4 10th which runs parallel to Carmel Bay – it's possible the USGA may opt to use the tee tempting players to drive the 349-yard hole.
Fairway re-positioning at the 6th, 9th and 10th holes (carried out for the 2010 US Open) will be crucial concerns for the competitors in the 2019 event. If Pebble does indeed play fast and firm and if any significant wind blows (as it did for the final round in 1992) then the USGA will need to be especially diligent in ensuring that past failures do not happen at one of golf's most revered courses.
Just recently Mike Davis, CEO for the USGA and point person in setting up Open venues, opted to step aside from his role in preparing the Open venue and that duty will now falls on the shoulders of his number two man John Bodenhamer. All eyes will certainly be watching to see if Pebble Beach is indeed showcased properly.
With Royal Portrush hosting The Open, what will be the reception from players and media on its 2nd Open and first since 1951?
No one specific event is anticipated more than The Open Championship this July at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland. For just the second time, the game's oldest major will be played outside Scotland and England.
The famed H.S. Colt design has been slightly modified by architect Martin Ebert and the inclusion of two new holes among the storied layout’s other holes will bear close scrutiny.
Overall yardage was increased from 7,187 to 7,337 yards and the routing of the holes has been smartly modified by Ebert so that the overall integration works very well.
The event is already a sell-out. For a number of years key touring professionals from Ireland (notably Darren Clarke, Graeme McDowell and Rory McIlroy) lobbied the R&A to take the plunge and return to Portrush.
So much of any Open rests on the shoulders of Mother Nature. The Antrim Coast weather can quickly turn and the wherewithal to drive the ball will be of prime importance. The Colt design will be displayed to a world that knows little of the layout, but if all goes well, it's very likely this links gem will attain an even higher level of acclaim and become a permanent fixture on The Open rotation.
The stakes are indeed high this coming July.
For travelling golf enthusiasts who have dreamed of walking Augusta National's fairways, this insider account reveals the authentic experience of playing the world's most coveted course - with details you'll never see on television. Beyond What the Cameras Show Every April, millions of golf fans watch the Masters Tournament unfold on their screens, admiring Augusta National's pristine fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and lightning-fast greens. For most, playing on this hallowed ground remains a distant dream. But what is Augusta National truly like to play? What secrets and challenges exist that television cameras simply can't capture? This exclusive insider account comes from Paul Jones, who's played Augusta National nine times and has intimate knowledge of the course few others can claim. His revelations pull back the curtain on one of golf's most mysterious venues, offering insights that television broadcasts simply cannot convey. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore what makes Augusta National so challenging beyond what television reveals, the meticulous attention to detail that defines the Augusta experience, and the invaluable playing strategy from someone who knows these hallowed grounds intimately. The Real Augusta Challenge: What Television Doesn't Show What makes Augusta truly challenging isn't always visible through the television lens. Paul reveals several key aspects of the course that surprise first-time players: The Elevation Changes and Uneven Lies "What I find to be difficult is unless you're on a tee box, you do not have a flat lie," Paul explains. "I struggle with the ball on a downslope. And that's why 10 gives me so much trouble." The famous 10th hole, which appears merely downhill on television, presents a particular challenge. Players face a combination of downhill stance with the ball often sitting above their feet – a setup that promotes a hook when the hole demands a fade from right-handed players. These elevation changes are dramatically understated on television. The drop from tee to green on the 10th is substantial, creating awkward lies that challenge even skilled players. Paul confesses that despite playing Augusta nine times and considering it his favourite hole, he's never managed to par the 10th – a testament to its true difficulty. "Some of the holes [are] so much different," Paul explains, "like hole seven. We play on the original tee box. Then you look back and that tee box is so far back there, like they're really hitting out of a chute." The Green Complexes: Strategic Nightmares Building on the challenge of uneven lies, Augusta's green complexes create the next layer of difficulty. They aren't merely fast – they're architectural marvels designed to test every aspect of a player's short game. "The greens are not only are the internal contours of the greens extremely severe, but the green sites are also laying upon a slope that's already at a severe grade. So you're getting undulated greens, but they're not undulated and flat. They're undulated and tilted", adds Jasper Miners. This double complexity creates situations where being on the wrong side of a hole means facing nearly impossible putts. Paul recounts a specific example at the 9th hole: "Twice, on nine, I had a really good yardage in... (after hitting the shot) I was like, 'God, I hit that perfect (and spun all the way off the green)." This positioning challenge explains why Augusta rewards experience and course knowledge. Even perfect shots to the wrong positions can leave players with no realistic chance of making par. Surprisingly Forgiving Bunkers While the lies and greens present significant challenges, the course offers one surprising reprieve. Contrary to what most would expect, Augusta's brilliant white bunkers (filled with crushed quartz, not sand) can actually be advantageous: "I love the bunkers, and I love that they're predictable. Every (single) one is perfect," Paul enthuses. "You could always see why the pros really like aiming for them. At most clubs you're like, you go in a bunker like, 'Oh no, I hope someone didn't rake it, or I'm in a footprint.' Where there, they're perfect." These meticulously maintained hazards are so consistent that Paul sometimes prefers them to being in the rough – a counterintuitive insight that showcases Augusta's unique character. The bunkers' pristine condition explains why professional players sometimes deliberately use them as aiming points or bailout areas during the Masters. Paul shares his most memorable shot at Augusta: "The greatest shot I've ever hit at Augusta was on hole 18. I was in that bunker and I was 185 yards. And I had a bet with my friend and we were tied going into 18, and I was like, I think I could get this five iron out. I could just barely make it... I hit it to probably seven feet and he played college golf and he was like, 'wow, that's the best shot I've seen.'" The Attention to Detail: Augusta's Pursuit of Perfection These playing characteristics don't happen by accident. What truly sets Augusta apart is the obsessive attention to detail that permeates every aspect of the experience – a philosophy that extends far beyond maintaining perfect playing surfaces. Augusta Green Packaging Mystery Solved "Do you know why everything you buy at Augusta is green?" Paul was asked by someone in the know. His response: "Oh, yeah. So you don't see it if it falls... on the ground." The answer reveals Augusta's extraordinary commitment to appearance: all packaging is green, so if accidentally dropped on the ground, it blends with the surroundings rather than appearing as litter on television. This seemingly small detail exemplifies Augusta's holistic approach to presentation. Nothing is too minor to escape attention when it might affect how the course appears, either in person or to the millions watching from home. Camera Angles and Facility Placement Building on this attention to aesthetic details, even camera positions are meticulously planned. Paul shares a story of Augusta officials noticing that a particular camera angle showed people entering and exiting a restroom facility in the background of shots. An adjustment was made to rectify the situation. This exemplifies Augusta National's commitment to visual perfection which extends beyond the playing surfaces to include every aspect of the viewer's experience. "Augusta has a pursuit of perfection that is unparalleled," notes Jasper Miners. "You can sense a real pride in what they're doing." The Balanced Architecture Despite what seems to be unlimited resources and a commitment to excellence that could easily lead to ostentation, Augusta maintains remarkably restrained architecture for its clubhouse and facilities: "I love how they keep the architecture, all the new buildings, they're white, with the shutters and everything seems like it belongs - like nothing really seems out of place," Paul shares admiringly. This balance of traditional aesthetics with modern functionality creates a harmonious environment where even new construction feels appropriate and timeless. Paul contrasts this with other prestigious clubs where modern additions clash with original buildings, noting: "I just love how they'll add on, but they'll keep the architecture." This commitment to consistency creates Augusta's unique atmosphere, where history and modernity coexist seamlessly. Practical Playing Tips from a Nine-Time Augusta Player Armed with an understanding of Augusta's challenges and philosophy, what practical advice would help someone fortunate enough to earn a playing opportunity? Paul offers strategy insights gained through nine rounds on these hallowed grounds, including his impressive achievement: "My super score is 62," he reveals, referring to his best score on each hole combined. "I parred or birdied every hole but 10. 10 is my favourite hole on the course. My first year I had the best chance of parring it and I three-putted." First Tee Nerves and the Par-3 Course "The first swing I ever took at Augusta, I (so) close from a hole-in-one on the par-three course," Paul recalls fondly. "I was like, wow, this is gonna be a great day." Augusta's Par-3 course serves as the perfect introduction to the experience. Playing this smaller course first helps settle nerves before tackling the championship course – a valuable sequence for anyone experiencing Augusta's intimidating reputation for the first time. Course Strategy Insights Building on everything we've learned about Augusta's characteristics, specific strategic advice emerges: On approach shots, position is everything. Paul describes this challenge on the 6th hole: "First time I played it, hole six, I hit it top right. I hit too much club and the caddy was like, 'okay, let's be realistic here. Our goal is to try to keep this ball on the green.' 'Cause the flag was at the bottom left. And he was right. I couldn't keep it on the green." Sometimes deliberately missing greens in favorable positions is better than risking ending up on the wrong side of Augusta's notorious slopes. On the 2nd hole: "On two I always make it over the bunker. And I actually like it better if I'm in the first cut because your ball's sitting up a little bit," Paul shares, explaining that the slightly elevated lie in the first cut of rough can be advantageous when "I'm hitting rescue or three wood or a long iron from there. So I prefer not to be in the fairway." The Value of Local Knowledge Perhaps most importantly, Paul emphasises the value of listening to Augusta's caddies. Their knowledge of the course's subtleties – especially the greens – provides invaluable guidance. "So what they do is they have caddies on every green. And on the par threes. And so what happens is when you get to that green, that caddy's been there all day, he knows exactly where the putt's gonna go." This local knowledge can save multiple strokes during a round. Paul's lowest official round at Augusta was impressive: "My lowest score is 75. I did break par. I shot 35 on the front one year, and in a separate year I shot 35 on the back." This achievement demonstrates that while Augusta is challenging, it's not impossible for skilled amateurs to post good scores when they understand its nuances. Conclusion: Beyond What We See on Television Augusta National exists in a unique position in the golf world - simultaneously one of the most visible courses through television coverage and yet one of the most mysterious and inaccessible. Through Paul Jones' experiences, we've gained invaluable insights into what makes the course truly special beyond what cameras reveal. What emerges from Paul's account isn't just the story of an immaculately maintained golf course but of an institution dedicated to preserving golf's traditions while maintaining an unwavering commitment to excellence. From the understated clubhouse to the meticulously planned sight lines for television viewers, from the strategic complexity of the green complexes to the surprisingly perfect bunkers, Augusta National represents a unique balance of tradition and innovation. The true magic of Augusta National isn't just in its manicured perfection or dramatic tournament moments – it's in the careful stewardship that has preserved it as golf's ultimate sanctuary. For golfers around the world, that commitment ensures that whether we ever walk those fairways ourselves or simply enjoy the Masters each April, Augusta National will remain golf's most fascinating and aspirational destination – a place where tradition, excellence, and the game's highest ideals converge.
The Hidden Experience of Playing Augusta National - Golf's Most Exclusive Course For travelling golf enthusiasts who dream of playing the world's top 100 golf courses, Augusta National Golf Club represents the ultimate bucket list destination. While millions watch The Masters tournament each April, few will ever experience what lies beyond the famous gates on Washington Road. This insider guide reveals the authentic Augusta National experience that television cameras never capture. Finding the Entrance: Augusta National's Understated First Impression Despite hosting golf's most prestigious tournament, Augusta National's entrance remains remarkably understated. Located on busy Washington Road in Augusta, Georgia, many first-time visitors drive past the discreet gates multiple times before finding their way. Unlike other famous golf courses with prominent signage, Augusta National relies on its reputation rather than obvious markers. The exclusive nature of the club becomes immediately apparent—guests must arrive with a member host, as no visitors are permitted without member accompaniment. Security measures include mechanical barriers and police officers who verify names before granting access to Magnolia Lane. Once inside, the legendary service begins. Mysteriously, every staff member addresses guests by name from the moment of arrival. "Mr. Lewis, it's lovely to have you," they'll say to first-time visitors who haven't yet introduced themselves, recalls Connor T. Lewis, who has been fortunate enough to play Augusta multiple times. This attentive hospitality creates an immediate sense of belonging that distinguishes Augusta National from other top-ranked golf destinations. The Historic Augusta National Clubhouse Experience The Augusta National clubhouse represents a fascinating piece of American architectural history. As the oldest poured concrete building in the United States (dating to the 1800s), it offers a surprising contrast to the grand southern mansions typical of prestigious golf clubs. Originally slated for demolition when the club was founded, financial constraints preserved what would become one of golf's most iconic structures. Inside, golf history surrounds you. The Trophy Room features oil paintings of founders Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts in their green jackets, alongside President Eisenhower. Most impressive are Bobby Jones' actual clubs used to win the Grand Slam, displayed in the left corner—a must-see for golf history enthusiasts. The clubhouse ambience remains refreshingly understated despite its prestige. "You think that everything's gonna be super fancy? And it's very understated. It's very relaxed," observes Connor T. Lewis, reflecting on his first impressions of the club. This understated elegance extends to the on-site accommodations, where guests stay in cabins named after golf legends, complete with Augusta National-branded amenities and panoramic views of the famous first hole. A Secret Nighttime Tradition at Augusta National While playing Augusta National ranks among golf's greatest thrills, the most magical moments often occur after sunset. After dinner in the clubhouse, knowledgeable guests participate in a special tradition—a moonlit walk to Amen Corner. "If you told me for the rest of my life that I could only go to Augusta National, not to play, but just to take that walk, I would accept that with pure happiness," confesses Connor T. Lewis about the moonlit tradition he now shares with other guests whenever possible. Under full moonlight, the fairways glow with an ethereal blue hue as guests make their way toward golf's most famous three-hole stretch. What few know is that Augusta National illuminates the 12th and 13th holes at night with special lighting. These spotlights transform Golden Bell and Azalea into theatrical stages, creating one of golf's most sublime spectacles. Many visitors report feeling the presence of golf legends like Hogan, Snead, and Jones during these nocturnal pilgrimages—a spiritual dimension to Augusta that television audiences never witness. Playing Augusta National: What Masters Broadcasts Don't Show Television coverage flattens Augusta National's dramatic topography. In reality, walking the course involves elevation changes equivalent to climbing approximately 20 stories throughout 18 holes. By the 18th fairway, even fit players feel the burn in their legs—a physical challenge entirely invisible to viewers. The optical illusions throughout Augusta National demonstrate designer Alister MacKenzie's genius. Having worked in military camouflage during World War II, MacKenzie created greens that deceive the eye. Putts that appear to break dramatically left often move right, making Augusta's legendary caddies invaluable guides through this visual trickery. Even accomplished golfers face psychological challenges at Augusta. Connor T. Lewis, a single-digit handicapper, recounts snap-hooking his first three drives at Augusta despite normally being consistent off the tee. "I go to the second hole, par five, and snap-hook another drive. Now on two, there are a lot of options. Snap-hook is not one of them," he jokes about his nerve-wracking start. The intimidation factor of playing where Palmer, Nicklaus, and Woods made history can transform good swings into momentary disasters. Among the most challenging shots at Augusta National: The intimidating tee shot on the 18th hole (even from member tees) The deceptive par-3 12th where swirling winds confound club selection The approach to the 14th green with its severe undulations The Essential Augusta National Mindset: Enjoying Golf's Greatest Experience The most valuable advice from Augusta National veterans transcends technique: forget your score. "You miss the point of Augusta National if you're trying to shoot your best round or break 80," advises Lewis. "Just take the time to float on the clouds for a little bit." This wisdom extends to any top 100 golf course experience. The greatest tragedy would be visiting golf's cathedral and remembering only your frustration over missed putts. "You never know when it's your last," explains Lewis. "Lightning could hit you tomorrow, and that might be the last opportunity you get to walk those storied links." For golfers lucky enough to receive an invitation to Augusta National—or any prestigious course—the ultimate advice from Connor T. Lewis distills to: "Don't let your golf game get in the way of playing golf." Experience the World's Top Golf Courses with the Right Perspective Augusta National exists in two realities: the immaculate tournament venue millions see on television, and the spiritual experience few will ever know—where fairways glow under moonlight, where history whispers from century-old walls, and where playing becomes a pilgrimage. While most golfers won't receive an invitation to Augusta National, this perspective applies to all bucket-list golf courses. Whether playing St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, Pine Valley, or Royal County Down, the scorecard matters less than absorbing the experience. As you plan your next golf adventure to top-ranked courses, remember that scores fade but experiences endure. Float on those clouds while you can, for you never know when such an opportunity might come again.
Fashion on the Fairway: Iconic Styles of The Masters The Masters Tournament, with its rich tradition and storied history, is not only a showcase of golfing excellence but also a stage for fashion trends that have become iconic in the sport. From the classic to the contemporary, the attire of the players at Augusta National Golf Club has often made as much of a statement as their golfing prowess. Here’s a look at some of the most memorable outfits and trends from The Masters over the years, illustrating how players' attire has become an integral part of their identity and the tournament's lore. Arnold Palmer (1950s-1960s): The King's Timeless Style Arnold Palmer, known for his charismatic personality and aggressive playing style, also made a significant impact on golf fashion. His preference for slim-fitting polos and cardigans paired with flat-front trousers set the standard for golf attire in his era. Palmer’s look was both functional and stylish, embodying the casual elegance of golf fashion in the 1950s and 1960s. Gary Player (1960s-1980s): The Black Knight Gary Player, nicknamed "The Black Knight," is renowned for his choice of all-black attire, a bold statement on the golf course. His monochromatic look, often punctuated with a black hat, became his trademark and symbolised both his physical fitness and mental discipline. Player’s distinctive style has left an indelible mark on the fashion of the game. Payne Stewart (1980s-1990s): A Nostalgic Flair Payne Stewart was famous for his flamboyant and nostalgic attire, which included plus fours (knickers), patterned socks, and tam-o'-shanter hats. Stewart’s unique ensemble paid homage to the golf attire of the early 20th century, standing out in the modern era of the sport. His style, combining bright colours and traditional elements, added a touch of whimsy and charm to The Masters. Tiger Woods (1990s-Present): Sunday Red Tiger Woods’ Sunday red shirt, paired with black pants, has become one of the most iconic looks in golf. The red shirt, worn during the final round of tournaments, symbolises aggression and dominance, reflecting Woods' intense competitive spirit. This signature look has inspired countless young golfers and fans, making the red shirt a symbol of excellence and victory at Augusta National and beyond. Rickie Fowler (2010s-Present): Bold and Bright Rickie Fowler, known for his vibrant and bold fashion choices, has brought a fresh, youthful energy to golf attire. Fowler’s preference for bright colours, flat-brimmed hats, and high-top golf shoes has challenged traditional golf fashion norms and attracted a younger audience to the sport. His style reflects his outgoing personality and has made him one of the most recognisable figures in golf. Fashion Trends at The Masters Over the years, The Masters has seen a variety of fashion trends, from the elegant and classic styles of the mid-20th century to the more functional and high-tech apparel of the modern era. Players have used fashion to express their individuality while adhering to the club’s dress code. The evolution of fashion at Augusta National mirrors changes in the sport itself, showcasing advancements in fabric technology, changes in societal fashion norms, and the influence of global fashion trends. Golf attire at The Masters goes beyond mere clothing; it is a reflection of personality, era, and the enduring spirit of the game. As players continue to make fashion statements on the fairways of Augusta National, their iconic styles contribute to the rich tapestry of traditions that make The Masters a unique and beloved event in the world of sports. Find out more about travel to Augusta National Golf Course Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive US Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips
