Inwood Country Club

Inwood Country Club, a testament to Long Island's early 20th-century sporting ambition, stands as a proud reminder of a bygone era of club making in America. The course unfolds across relatively flat terrain, typical of the Inwood area near the Jamaica Bay, often playing with a breeze, and demanding strategic approaches rather than brute force off the tee. Favoring a draw due to its predominantly right-to-left hole orientations, the course rewards thoughtful players. Herbert Strong, known for his work at Engineers Country Club, originally shaped the course. Later renovations, notably by the firm of the famed golf architect Ron Forse, sought to restore Strong's original vision, ensuring its playability for the modern game. It hosted the 1921 PGA Championship, where Walter Hagen secured his first major victory, and the 1923 U.S. Open, won by Bobby Jones in a playoff over Bobby Cruickshank, cementing its place in early championship golf. While not currently a regular fixture on professional tournament schedules, Inwood continues to be regarded as a classic course within the New York metropolitan area. The membership, known for its multi-generational ties, proudly upholds the traditions of the club. A unique, local custom persists amongst members: during the club championship, competitors traditionally place a silver dollar on the 18th green after completing their round, a symbolic gesture of respect for the course and competition. It’s a quirky, long-held tradition that adds a special element to the club's competitive spirit.