A new study has revealed the strongest golf courses in America through an analysis of review data and social media comments.
The study narrowed down the most difficult courses among public and private courses in the United States.
A brand of high quality golf apparel, Galvin Greenanalyzed a number of keywords related to difficult golf courses, such as 'improved' and 'elevation change,' in TripAdvisor reviews written by average golfers at more than 800 courses in the US.
For those with at least 50 reviews, they looked at the average number of keywords indicating difficulty in each review to determine which course Americans found most difficult.
“It's interesting to see what subjects Americans find most difficult. “Whether you're looking to test your skills or just enjoy the thrill of conquering difficult courses, these offer an experience that will challenge even the most seasoned golfer,” said a spokesperson.
“It's also great to see the mix of courses from different states, reflecting the different challenges of golf across the country. Hopefully, this study will inspire golf enthusiasts to push their limits and tackle one of the toughest courses.
“Wherever and whenever you choose to play, Galvin Green has clothing to match.”
Here's the countdown…
10. Champions Club in Summerfield
Tenth is The Champions Club in Summerfield, Florida, with an average of 0.943 keywords per review. It has 53 reviews, including 50 keywords. Overall, it is rated 4 stars.
Built in 1993, the course is a par-72, 18-hole course designed by Tom Fazio.
It measures 6,890 yards from the gold tees if you're looking for a real challenge. The blue tees play to 6,313 yards, the white to 5,771, and the green to 4,977.
9. PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Golf Course
In ninth place is the PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Golf Course in California. It has an average of 0.944 keywords included in each of its 178 TripAdvisor reviews. The course is rated 4.5 stars overall, with the word 'strength' appearing 33 times, and the word 'fast vegetables' appearing 17 times.
At 7,300 yards, the Stadium Course – home of the PGA TOUR's inaugural American Express season has the highest stroke (76.1) and slope (150) of all courses in the PGA West.
With five sets of tees, the Stadium is playable for all skill levels but may require some pride swallowing.
8. Tot Hill Farm Golf Club
Tot Hill Farm Golf Club in North Carolina takes eighth place, with 0.956 keywords per update on average. The course has 68 TripAdvisor reviews, including 65 difficulty-related keywords. The word 'challenge' appears 20 times among the reviews, with an overall rating of 4 stars.
The course plays 6,713 yards from the Maverick (black) tees and is known for confusing players who don't quite know how to tackle their challenging holes.
Iconic course designer Mike Strantz has produced a true gem that defies expectations like the man himself.
7. Shell Landing Golf Course
Next is Shell Landing Golf Course in Mississippi, with an average of 0.963 keywords used per review. The word 'challenge' appeared the most, being included in 19 reviews. In total, it has 52 keywords spread across 54 reviews, and an average of 4.5 stars.
With a variety of slopes, bunkers, dog legs, water hazards, and sand traps, this championship course offers challenges for even the most seasoned golfer.
Exemplary service, five sets of tees, and impeccable course conditions make a visit to this course a rewarding, enjoyable experience for golfers who want the best.
6. Wentworth Golf Club, Florida
With an average of 0.982 keywords per TripAdvisor review, Wentworth Golf Club in Florida is ranked sixth. The course has 55 reviews, containing 54 keywords, with a total rating of 4 stars.
Prepare to bring your best game, as each hole is carefully crafted to test players of all skill levels.
Despite its short length of 6,500 yards from the tips, the narrow fairways give the illusion of great length.
5. Cinnabar Hills Golf Club
In fifth place is Cinnabar Hills Golf Club, California, with a difficulty-related keyword average of 0.984 per 61 reviews. The most common keyword among its reviews is 'challenge,' appearing 11 times.
Nestled quietly in and around the hills, a short drive south of bustling Silicon Valley, Cinnabar Hills Golf Club combines quality golf with beautiful views.
San Jose's first public course to open in 30 years was designed by award-winning architect John Harbottle III. Each hole is designed to maintain the natural inclination of the area and to protect the local wildlife.
4. Stone Ridge Golf Course
Arizona's Stone Ridge Golf Course is ranked fourth, with an average of 1.0 keywords used per review. The keyword 'fast vegetables' appears six times, while 'elevation change' shows up 11 times. Overall, it is rated 4 stars, with a total of 74 reviews.
Nestled in the foothills of the Rogue Valley, Stone Ridge Golf Club offers an incredible golf experience with breathtaking views every time.
The 18-hole championship course offers a challenge for all levels of golfers and is sure to be a treat for all. Stone Ridge Golf Club enjoys some of the most spectacular views of any course in Southern Oregon.
3. Wine Valley Golf Course
Next on the list is Wine Valley Golf Course in Washington, with 1.088 keywords used per review on average. It has 80 reviews on TripAdvisor, including 87 keywords, with the most used word being 'challenge.'
This beautiful design by Dan Hixson unfolds on a grand scale, playing over the hills in the shadow of the Blue Mountains.
Each hole has multiple lines of play, ensuring a fun round for every golfer and a real challenge for those who seek it.
2. Bethpage Black
In second place is Bethpage Black, with an average of 1.112 keywords per review. The New York course has a total of 107 reviews, with 119 keywords included in them. The course is renowned for its difficulty and has hosted several major tournaments, including the US Open. The most common keyword used in its reviews is 'difficult.'
Located in suburban Long Island near New York City, Bethpage is a community golf mecca with five 18-hole golf courses, including the world-famous Black Course.
The park was developed from the Yoakum family estate and other surrounding properties in Farmingdale.
1. TPC Tampa Bay
At the top of the list is TPC Tampa Bay, located in Florida, with an average of 1.2 keywords related to difficulty per review. Overall, it has a 4.5 star rating, with 105 reviews containing 126 keywords. The term 'fast vegetables' appears the most, being used in 22 reviews.
Home to 21 consecutive Champions Tour events, the stunning course winds through natural wetlands, cypress heads and creeks, providing the perfect backdrop for outstanding golf.
The natural setting and abundance of wildlife is why TPC Tampa Bay is one of only two courses in the Tampa Bay area to be designated as an Audubon Partnership Site. Besides the wildlife, the expertly designed course is designed to challenge the world's best golfers, but also to provide a challenging and fun experience for players of all abilities.
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