The Duke Golf Course, located in Durham, North Carolina, is a prestigious golf course that has been a staple of the golf community since its inception in 1957. Designed by the renowned golf course architect, Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course has undergone several renovations over the years to maintain its challenging and beautiful layout. The Duke Golf Course is situated on over 300 acres of rolling hills and wooded areas, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for golfers of all skill levels.
Course Layout and Features
The Duke Golf Course features 18 holes, with a total yardage of approximately 7,000 yards from the back tees. The course has a par of 72, with four par-3 holes, ten par-4 holes, and four par-5 holes. The layout is characterized by its tree-lined fairways, well-guarded greens, and numerous water hazards, including ponds, lakes, and streams. The course also features over 60 bunkers, adding an extra layer of challenge and complexity to the game.
The course has undergone several renovations, including a major renovation in 1994, which added new bunkers, expanded greens, and improved drainage. In 2013, the course underwent another renovation, which included the installation of new irrigation systems, cart paths, and tee boxes. These renovations have helped to maintain the course's reputation as one of the top golf courses in the country.
Notable Holes and Challenges
One of the most notable holes on the course is the 17th hole, a par-3 that plays over a large pond to a well-guarded green. This hole is often considered one of the most challenging on the course, requiring a precise shot to avoid the water hazard and reach the green. Another challenging hole is the 10th hole, a par-5 that plays uphill to a green surrounded by bunkers and trees.
The course also features several risk-reward holes, including the 5th hole, a par-4 that plays downhill to a green surrounded by water. Golfers who take the risk and try to drive the green may be rewarded with a birdie opportunity, but those who fail to execute the shot may find themselves in trouble.
| Hole Number | Par | Yardage |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | 380 |
| 2 | 3 | 170 |
| 3 | 5 | 520 |
| 4 | 4 | 400 |
| 5 | 4 | 360 |
| 6 | 3 | 200 |
| 7 | 5 | 560 |
| 8 | 4 | 420 |
| 9 | 3 | 180 |
| 10 | 5 | 540 |
| 11 | 4 | 380 |
| 12 | 3 | 160 |
| 13 | 5 | 580 |
| 14 | 4 | 440 |
| 15 | 3 | 190 |
| 16 | 5 | 560 |
| 17 | 3 | 210 |
| 18 | 4 | 400 |
Tournaments and Events
The Duke Golf Course has hosted numerous tournaments and events over the years, including the Duke University Golf Tournament, the North Carolina Amateur Championship, and the USGA Amateur Qualifier. The course has also been the site of several PGA Tour and LPGA Tour events, including the Duke Children’s Classic and the North Carolina Women’s Open.
The course has also been recognized for its excellent conditions and challenging layout, earning it a 4.5-star rating from Golf Digest and a Top 10 ranking in the state of North Carolina by Golfweek. The course has also been certified as an Audubon Sanctuary, recognizing its commitment to environmental sustainability and wildlife conservation.
Amenities and Services
The Duke Golf Course offers a range of amenities and services to golfers, including a fully-stocked pro shop, a practice range, and a short game area. The course also features a clubhouse with a restaurant, bar, and banquet facilities, making it an ideal location for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions.
The course also offers golf lessons and instruction from experienced PGA professionals, as well as a junior golf program for young golfers. The course is also equipped with GPS-equipped golf carts, providing golfers with accurate yardage and hazard information throughout the course.
- Pro shop hours: 7:00 am - 6:00 pm
- Practice range hours: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
- Clubhouse hours: 7:00 am - 8:00 pm
- Golf lessons: available by appointment
- Junior golf program: available for golfers ages 6-17
What is the dress code for the Duke Golf Course?
+The dress code for the Duke Golf Course is collared shirts and golf pants or shorts for men, and collared shirts and golf skirts or pants for women. Tennis shoes and metal spikes are not allowed.
Can I walk the course or do I need to use a golf cart?
+Golfers are allowed to walk the course, but golf carts are also available for rent. The course is approximately 7,000 yards from the back tees, so golfers may want to consider using a golf cart to conserve energy and enjoy the scenery.
Are there any discounts or promotions available for golfers?
+Yes, the Duke Golf Course offers a variety of discounts and promotions for golfers, including junior rates, senior rates, and twilight rates. Golfers can also purchase a season pass or membership to enjoy unlimited golf and other benefits.
