Scarlet Course
Columbus, OH, USA
Scarlet, one half of the Ohio State University Golf Club, lives in the shadow of its famous brother course, but stands as a formidable test in its own right. Carved into the rolling terrain of Columbus, it presents a distinctly modern challenge that favors strategic play over brute power. Designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie disciple Jack Kidwell with later enhancements by Michael Hurdzan, Scarlet showcases a blend of open fairways and strategically bunkered greens. This configuration demands precise approach shots rather than favoring bomb and gouge strategies. The course presents a variety of angles, requiring a thoughtful approach on every hole. The course's layout weaves through a landscape that is naturally forgiving, which provides a visual treat and reduces the impact of errant shots. While not a regular stop on major professional tours, Scarlet has hosted numerous collegiate championships, nurturing future generations of golfing talent. The club itself serves as a hub for Ohio State University’s esteemed golf program, providing a training ground for aspiring Buckeyes. Players can often be found grabbing the club's staple grilled cheese after a round. A testament to simpler times in golf.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Public: #264
Best in USA
Public: #155
Best in OH
Public: #1
Golfers say this MacKenzie-designed course delivers a stern test in impeccable condition, though opinions diverge on whether the difficulty enhances or detracts from the experience. Most praise the lightning-fast greens and consistently excellent maintenance, with some calling it a "proper test of golf" featuring varied, well-designed holes. However, several reviewers find the sheer number of bunkers excessive and strategically uninspired, making the layout feel overly punitive rather than thoughtfully challenging. A few also note that staff hospitality can feel indifferent, even to members and their guests. While those with university affiliation consider it a privilege worth playing, some suggest the course lacks the character and fun factor found at other top layouts.
8.2
78 players
Having played here a few times, I do find enjoyment every time I play. However, the course is extremely difficult (at least for my skill level) and I’m fine with that. But the sea of bunkers is a bit overkill. I think it’s just a boring way to make the golf course difficult. The course is always in incredible shape. If you have an affiliation to the university, you should absolutely play it. I don’t think you will be disappointed. But you will likely play more “fun” courses in your lifetime.
Designed by Dr. MacKenzie. and tampered with by Mr. Nicklaus. The course is typically well maintained, but the course is way harder than it needs to be. Bunkers are ridiculous, Jack’s signature redesigned fourth green is atrocious. Ask any member what they think of Jack’s 11th hour restoration project submission and they will laugh. Sad to say, but this course will be re-restored within twelve months of Jack’s passing. Outside of the course, the staff has a good way of making the membership/their guests feel as if they are just public play and you’re a pain in their day. Cool warm up putting green though!
Don’t get me wrong, it’s a nice course, but it just feels like it lacks character at times and is overly punitive to the point it’s almost goofy. Every hole has bunkers lining the fairways, in a way that isn’t exactly strategic. Cool greens though
A privilege to play!
Absolute pure and proper test of golf. Played it a week and a half before the korn ferry guys were there and it absolutely kicked my ass. The greens were lightning and if you missed you drive in the rough you were risking a big number. With all that being said I still had a ton of fun and would love to play there again.
Such a proper golf course, well designed and not a bad hole out there, love the different types of holes you play out there!
Public courses closest to Scarlet at Ohio State University Golf Club.
The journey to Ohio State University Golf Club begins at John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), a straightforward fifteen-minute drive northeast into the sprawling university district. From the terminal, the route follows broad avenues that gradually transition from commercial corridors to the tree-lined edges of one of America's largest campus landscapes, where the hum of the city softens into the ordered greenery of academic grounds. The club itself sits tucked within the university's athletic precinct, a discreet enclave where the public energy of Buckeye Nation gives way to the quiet focus of championship golf - an arrival that feels less like entering a resort and more like stepping behind the curtain of a storied institution.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Scarlet at Ohio State University Golf Club has a Course Vaults score of 8.2 out of 10 based on 41 explicit golfer ratings.
Scarlet was designed by Alister Mackenzie and Perry Maxwell.
Yes. Scarlet at Ohio State University Golf Club is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Scarlet is 72.
Scarlet plays 7,444 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Scarlet is 140.
