The Golden State has hosted multiple US Opens and PGA Championships at seven well regarded courses. During this 25 year long quest, I haven’t traveled to California very much. As a result, I’d only been able to play three courses (the Olympic Club, Torrey Pines and Pebble Beach) until this year. When my sons told me they planned to complete the Oceanside Ironman 70.3 in April, I immediately turned my attention to the other major championship golf courses in California with hopes of adding to that figure. Fortunately, the quest got off to a roaring start in 2024 with two solid rounds on two very wonderful and different courses!
Harding Park Golf Club – #75
Although San Francisco isn’t exactly close to Oceanside, it’s a lot closer than Arlington Virginia! My daughter-in-law’s parents live in San Carlos so we decided to start out westward journey in northern California. TPC – Harding Park Golf Club was the host of the 2020 PGA Championship won by Collin Morikawa.
TPC – Harding Park is a public golf course that is located in the southwest corner of San Francisco, overlooking Lake Merced (and right across from the Olympic Club, still one of my favorite courses on the quest!) That area is known for its unpredictable weather, which can change from sunny to foggy to rainy in a matter of minutes, and our threesome experienced that roller coaster throughout the round. Fortunately, the hail that we received (yes, it hailed!) only lasted about 30 seconds!
My game started as unpredictable as the weather. During my first four holes, I carded a bogey, a par, a double bogey and a birdie! I can’t recall ever “hitting for the cycle” to start a round. Of course, the recent punching of the green may have played a part. Once I figured out the greens, the rest of the day was a little more predictable, and I was pleased with final round score of 85.
Hillcrest Country Club – #76
I was very fortunate to line up a round at the prestigious Hillcrest Country Club the next day. It was definitely a contrast to the day before – with very few trees and a cloudless sky. The course, which was designed by Willie Watson of Olympic Club fame, was pristine, with lush fairways and immaculate greens. Everything about the club was first class, from the practice area to the fully stocked halfway house. The views of downtown Los Angeles were somewhat distracting!
I had the privilege of playing with the 17-time club champion, whose insights helped me navigate the course like a member. Although my game sometimes failed his instruction, I felt good about my 84.
Final Thoughts
One of the great things about this quest is getting to travel to new places, meet new people and play some incredible courses. Both courses had their own character and challenge, and I highly recommend them both if you get the chance. I know I’ll treasure the memories made on this trip for the remainder of the quest.
MajorBucketList.com 