New Golf Discoveries Golf has always been the perfect blend of so many qualities: relaxation, exercise, skill, fun, competition (and even great food). It all takes place outdoors in stunning natural surroundings. New Jersey offers more than 200 public and private courses for every level of golfer. For a comprehensive rundown, including specs, photos and directions, go to www.njsga.org. Tee up at the Architects Golf Club in Lopatcong. This 6,863 yard, par 71 masterpiece boasts 18 holes (of course), each designed by a different premier architect. There is also a full service golf shop and the Pub Grille for relaxing afterwards. Need a new way to experience the links? Try each one of Golf Digest's five top-rated New Jersey courses. Rated number one is the Pine Hill Golf Club designed by Tom Fazio, considered by many to be the top course architect in the country. Occupying the number two spot, Hominy Hill in Colts Neck has played host to many United States Golf Association (USGA) events over the years with its winning combination-legendary history and designed by Robert Trent-Jones, Sr. Taking third place is the Sand Barrens Golf Club in Swainton, recognized as a superior course. Number four is the powerhouse Howell Park Golf Course. Finally, fifth place is Blue Heron Pines West, picked by the USGA to host the 2003 U. S. Public Links Championship. 
Harbour Pines
Courtesy of Greater Atlantic City Golf Assoc. |
The Atlantic City region is home to the highest rated courses in New Jersey according to Golf Digest's Places to Play 2002-2003. Golf Magazine says, "In South Jersey the diamond tiara belongs to Harbor Pines." Golf for Women magazine rates it one of the "Top 100 women-friendly courses in the U.S. (Top 3 in NJ)." Book a complete all-inclusive golf vacation or tee time in advance of arrival by calling 1-800-GOLF-222 or going online to www.gacga.com. 
USGA Golf Museum |
If golf is truly in your blood, you will get the transfusion of a lifetime when you visit the USGA Golf House and Museum. With its one-of-a-kind exhibits, it makes for great family fun too! It is the only place in the world where you can see the 1-iron Ben Hogan used in the 1950 U.S. Open and the "out-of-this-world" club used by Apollo 14 astronaut Alan Shepard to hit one giant putt for mankind. The museum exhibits are one thing, but USGA's Testing Facility is another ball altogether. People talk about the "science of the game;" it is here-from the 14,000 square foot lab to the 325-yard outdoor testing range. Get an eyeful of Iron Byron, the mechanical golfer that knocks flawless drives. |
