Gold 9/Silver 9 Course
Sugar Grove, IL, USA

Rich Harvest Farms' Gold 9 and Silver 9 represent the zenith of Jerry Rich's vision: a testament to both competitive championship golf and his deep-seated appreciation for the land. These nines are carved into the rolling farmland of Sugar Grove, Illinois, a landscape transformed into a formidable test marked by undulating fairways, strategic bunkering, and water hazards that demand both courage and calculation. Its a course more than capable of playing to the par, or playing even with the best players, especially during the windy season. Designed in-house by Jerry Rich himself, with significant later contributions from Dave Harman, the Gold and Silver nines prioritize shot-making and creative course management. Errant drives are penalized severely, as tight lies and thick fescue rough force players to think their way around. Expect generous fairways that still require skill, and a course that favors players who know how to attack, and retreat when needed. Rich Harvest Farms gained international recognition when it hosted the Solheim Cup in 2009, showcasing its ability to challenge the world's best female golfers. Its also served as the long time host to the Northern Illinois University Men’s and Women’s golf teams. The course, while not nationally lauded, is a highly respected and sought-after venue for elite amateur and professional events within the Midwest. Beyond the demanding layout, Rich Harvest Farms is known for its unparalleled commitment to the game's traditions and its culture. Members benefit from a true 18 hole layout that offers a challenge to all skill levels, and a place where the love for the game is only matched by its owner. The atmosphere is one of dedicated play, the best playing conditions, and quiet reflection.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Private column compares member-only and guest-restricted courses.
Best in World
Unranked
Best in USA
Unranked
Best in IL
All courses
Golfers say Royal Harare Fox delivers exceptional hospitality and service that elevates an otherwise quirky layout. Most note the course plays extremely difficult from all tees, with the back tees rated 78.0 and stretches like holes 6–8 on the Gold nine proving particularly brutal, capable of producing big numbers. Reviewers appreciate that some scoring opportunities exist late in the round, though a few find certain greens frustrating enough to warrant redesign. The property itself earns consistent praise, and golfers should note a major renovation is planned to begin in summer 2026.
8.4
54 players
Course rating from the tips is 78.0. Brute of a golf course. Notably 6-8 gold being a harsh stretch of holes. 4 and 5 silver can also cause big numbers, but can finish with some birdies on 6-9 Silver. However, I would take a bulldozer to a few greens (5 silver and 7-8 Gold)
Layout is a little meh but this golf course is extremely difficult from every tee but esp the back box. RHF is going to undergo a major renovation in starting summer 2026. Service is tier 1 level good.
Course is quirky and meh, but the property and service is top notch
Public courses closest to Gold 9/Silver 9 at Rich Harvest Farms.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Gold 9/Silver 9 at Rich Harvest Farms has a Course Vaults score of 8.4 out of 10 based on 30 explicit golfer ratings.
Gold 9/Silver 9 was designed by Jerry Rich.
Gold 9/Silver 9 at Rich Harvest Farms is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at Gold 9/Silver 9 is 72.
Gold 9/Silver 9 plays 7,699 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Gold 9/Silver 9 is 155.