Tennessee Golf Guide
Tennessee Golf Course’s Statistics
Like the TeeTime Golf Pass, Tennessee’s golf courses are both diverse and extensive. Here’s a breakdown:
- Total Golf Courses: The state is home to 275 golf courses, comprising 146 public, 64 municipal, and 68 private facilities.
- Oldest Golf Course: The Golf Club of Bristol, established in 1894, holds the title of Tennessee’s oldest course, offering a historic backdrop for a round of golf.
- Longest Golf Course: The Honors Course in Ooltewah stretches to an impressive 7,690 yards from the back tees, presenting a formidable challenge for golfers seeking length.
- Easiest Golf Course (by course rating): Concord Golf Club in Knoxville is considered the easiest public golf course, with a course rating of 60.9, making it ideal for beginners aiming for a relaxed game.
- Hardest Golf Course (by course rating): Franklin Bridge Golf Club in Franklin, Tennessee is recognized as the most challenging, demanding precision and strategy from even the most experienced golfers.
The 5 Hardest Golf Holes in Tennessee
For those seeking a challenge, these holes are among the toughest in the state:
- The Honors Course, Ooltewah, TN – Hole 18 (Par 4): A demanding finishing hole that requires a precise tee shot followed by an accurate approach shot to a well-guarded green.
- Hermitage Golf Course – President’s Reserve, Old Hickory, TN, – Hole 14 (Par 5): This lengthy par 5 challenges players with water hazards and strategically placed bunkers.
- Bear Trace at Harrison Bay State Park, Harrison, TN – Hole 6 (Par 4): Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this hole features a narrow fairway and a challenging approach over water.
- Gaylord Springs Golf Links, Nashville, TN – Hole 12 (Par 4): A challenging hole with water hazards and a well-protected green.
- Sweetens Cove Golf Club, South Pittsburg,TN – Hole 5 (Par 3): Despite its shorter length, this par 3 is known for its undulating green and surrounding hazards.
With a balanced mix of public and private courses, Tennessee ensures that golfers of all preferences can find a course that suits their needs. Check all the tee time discounts we have to see how much you can save on every round.
Unique Tennessee Golf Course Holes
Tennessee’s golf courses feature several distinctive holes that offer memorable challenges:
- Island Pointe Golf Course, Kodak – Holes 3, 4, 5, 15, and 16: Designed by Arthur Hills, these holes uniquely incorporate three islands in the French Broad River, providing a one-of-a-kind golfing experience.
- Tennessee National Golf Club, Loudon – Hole 10 (Par 4): This hole features a narrow fairway flanked by water hazards, requiring golfers to balance ambition with caution.
Tennessee Golf Statistics
Golf in Tennessee reflects both national trends and local flavors:
- Golf Course Usage: Tennessee’s mix of municipal, private and public golf courses like Montlake Golf Course in Soddy-Daisy, TN caters to various preferences and skill levels.
- Tennessee Golfers and Rounds Played: according to the Golf in Tennessee report there were 394,000 golfers that played 5.2M rounds in Tennessee.
- Participation Rates: Golf participation in Tennessee is aligned with national patterns, with both on-course and off-course golfers enjoying the sport.
Famous Golfers from Tennessee
Tennessee has produced some notable names in golf:
- Cary Middlecoff: Born in Halls, Middlecoff was a dominant player in the 1950s, securing 40 PGA Tour wins, including two U.S. Open titles and a Masters victory.
- Lou Graham: Hailing from Nashville, Graham won the 1975 U.S. Open and had a successful professional career.
The Economic Impact of Golf in Tennessee
Golf plays an important role in Tennessee’s economy, providing jobs and boosting tourism.
- Jobs: According to the NGF Golf in Tennessee report, the golf industry supports approximately 22,500 jobs in Tennessee, encompassing roles in course operations, hospitality, and related services.
- Golf Tourism: While specific data on golf tourism in the state is limited, Tennessee’s overall tourism sector is robust. In 2023, Tennessee welcomed 144 million visitors, generating $30.6 billion in direct visitor spending. A portion of this spending is attributed to golf-related activities, given the state’s numerous golf courses and events.
Revenue and Growth Trends: The broader tourism industry in Tennessee has experienced significant growth. In 2023, direct visitor spending reached a record $30.6 billion, marking a 6.2% increase from the previous year. This growth trend suggests a positive trajectory for sectors within tourism, including golf.
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