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Baltusrol Golf Club: 2016 PGA Championship Venue

Lydia Wilson04 mins

Baltusrol Golf Club: A Prestigious Historic Landmark

Published 9:25 AM EDT, Wed July 27, 2016

An Icon of Golfing Heritage

Baltusrol Golf Club, located in Springfield, New Jersey, is one of the only four U.S. golf courses to hold National Historic Landmark status. Founded in 1895, this historic course has hosted numerous iconic golf events, showcasing some of the greatest names in the sport.

Memorable Tournaments

The club has a rich history of hosting major golf tournaments. For instance, it was the site of the PGA Championship, which returned to Baltusrol for the final major of the 2016 season. The last time the tournament was held there in 2005 saw Phil Mickelson claim victory after a dramatic birdie on the final hole.

The PGA Championship returns to Baltusrol Golf Club for the final major of the 2016 season.
The PGA Championship returns to Baltusrol Golf Club for the final major of the 2016 season. The last time it staged the tournament in 2005, Phil Mickelson won after a dramatic flop-shot from the rough that earned a birdie on the final hole.

Natural Beauty and Wildlife

Moreover, the landscape surrounding Baltusrol is not only stunning but also teeming with wildlife. During practice rounds for tournaments, deer can often be seen roaming freely on the grounds, offering a picturesque backdrop to the golfing action.

Deer roam freely on the grounds during the 2016 event.
Deer roam freely on the grounds — as seen during Monday’s practice rounds ahead of the 2016 event. The club has regular culls with licensed hunters.

Historic Significance

The club not only serves as a venue for competitions but also houses important historical markers. A plaque on the famed 18th fairway commemorates the legendary 1-iron shot that Jack Nicklaus struck to secure his win in the 1967 U.S. Open.

A plaque on the 18th fairway commemorates Jack Nicklaus's famous 1-iron shot.
A plaque on the 18th fairway commemorates the famous 1-iron that Jack Nicklaus hit to secure his win in the 1967 U.S. Open.

The Evolution of Baltusrol

Consequently, as the club evolved, its courses have undergone significant renovations. The Old Course, for instance, hosted five major tournaments before an extensive redevelopment. Interestingly, it was also home to the first island green built in the U.S., making it a unique and well-photographed venue in its time.

The Old Course featured the first island green built in the U.S.
The Old Course featured the first island green built in the U.S. Ringed by a moat, it became one of the most photographed holes of its day.

A Legacy of Excellence

In summary, Baltusrol Golf Club stands as a testament to golfing history, cultivating a legacy of excellence while showcasing the beauty of nature and the spirit of the game. Its significance for professional golf and rich heritage make it a remarkable destination for enthusiasts and visitors alike.


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