Sunningdale Golf Club - Old Course

About the club

The original, "Old," course at Sunningdale is the work of Willie Park Jr. In contrast with Harry Colt's New Course, Park's is less open, with more trees, and has a more historic feel. Every one of the holes is unique. The par 5 1st, which good players can usually reach in two, provides a leisurely start to the front nine that increases chances for a good overall score. The back nine holes become more difficult as you go; of particular note are the short par 4 11th, maybe the best hole of its kind anywhere, and the extremely demanding final four. The Old has attracted tournament play from the time when Braid, Taylor and Vardon were competing with each other; other highlights include Bobby Jones' incredible 66 on his qualifying round for the 1926 Open. The New Course is more demanding, but nothing beats the Old for sheer elegance.