
Nestled in the rolling hills of Ooltewah, Tennessee, The Honors Course exists as a testament to a vision of pure, unadulterated golf, its challenging layout designed to test the mettle of even the most seasoned players. Built upon the principles of strategic shot-making and course management, it remains a sanctuary for those who appreciate the game's intellectual demands.
Architect Pete Dye, a visionary known for his bold designs, carved The Honors Course from the Tennessee landscape in the early 1980s. The course is an expression of Dye's modernist design principles. Undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and subtly contoured greens demand exacting approaches and a keen understanding of angles. A course that favors players who can strategically manage their way around the challenges, where accuracy, finesse and intelligent decision making is rewarded.
The Honors Course, while not a regular fixture on the professional tour circuit, stands as a respected venue for top-tier amateur golf. It has hosted the U.S. Amateur and Curtis Cup, drawing the finest talents to compete on its demanding layout. This commitment to amateur excellence underscores the club's dedication to the spirit of the game.
The membership at The Honors Course is notably tight-knit, comprised of passionate golfers who share a deep appreciation for the course's challenging nature and tranquil setting. Word has it that the club's no-frills approach extends to the clubhouse menu, focusing on simple, well-prepared fare that allows the golf to remain the undisputed star of the show.
Reviews
The honors is a GEM
Best course in TN and it’s not particularly close. It’s difficult but fair, open off tee but every hole brings double into play. Course is always in pristine condition, service is Tier 1.
Unbelievable course. Extremely challenging without a bad hole on the course. Requires nothing less than your absolute A game. Trying to fit 6 irons from 200 into 15 foot windows on par 3s. Almost silly/unfair but not quite. Conditions in May were pristine. Famously Tiger shot an 81 in final round of NCAAs and still won here. Will leave you battered and bruised and wanting more.
Heaven on earth in Ooltewah TN. A brilliant Dye with rolling zoysia fairways and tough greens, this is one of the hardest courses in the US. Holes 7, 9, and 14 are the highlights but the entire course is unique and fun. A must play and one of the best loops around.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
The Honors at The Honors Course has a Course Vaults score of 9.3 out of 10 based on 52 explicit golfer ratings.
The Honors was designed by Pete Dye.
The Honors at The Honors Course is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at The Honors is 72.
The Honors plays 7,070 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at The Honors is 148.