Winged Foot Golf Club

Winged Foot's East Course exists in the considerable shadow of its West sibling, but its own defenses quietly challenge even the most accomplished player. Carved into the rolling Westchester County terrain, this Golden Age layout, designed by A.W. Tillinghast, is a masterclass in strategic bunkering and subtle green complexes. The fairways are generous, a deceptive invitation to aggressive play, only to be met by devilish approach shots to elevated and undulating surfaces. While Robert Trent Jones Sr. implemented alterations in the mid-20th century, the course maintains Tillinghast's demanding philosophy: precision is rewarded, and imprecision is severely penalized. The East has hosted its share of significant events, including the 1984 U.S. Amateur and the 2021 U.S. Senior Open, each contested over a layout that, while shorter than its more famous neighbor, demands just as much strategic thought and deft execution. While not commanding the same global recognition as the West, the East Course at Winged Foot enjoys a strong reputation amongst those in the know, with club members often favoring its more nuanced challenge. A round on the East offers a unique perspective on Tillinghast's genius, a test that, while perhaps less daunting in length, proves to be equally rigorous in its demands for skill and mental fortitude. And after a hard-fought round, members debate the day’s triumphs and disasters over a hearty meal in the club’s distinguished dining room, a tradition as storied as the course itself.