Pine Valley GC New Jersey: A Golfer's Paradise with 100 Years of History

Pine Valley Golf Club, located in Clementon, New Jersey, is a legendary golf course that has consistently ranked among the top 10 courses in the United States. With its pristine fairways, challenging greens, and rich history, Pine Valley GC has captivated golfers for over a century.

A Century of Excellence: A Look Back at Pine Valley's History

Pine Valley GC was founded in 1913 by George Crump, an avid golfer and businessman. Crump, along with a group of influential golfers, purchased 1,800 acres of land in the New Jersey Pine Barrens and commissioned golf course architect H.S. Colt to design a world-class golf course. Colt, known for his work on some of the most prestigious courses in the UK, including Sunningdale and St. Andrews, created a masterpiece at Pine Valley.

The course officially opened in 1914 and quickly gained recognition for its challenging design and pristine conditions. Over the years, Pine Valley has undergone several renovations and updates, but the original Colt design remains largely intact. The course has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the Walker Cup in 1936 and the US Amateur Championship in 1954.

The Course: A Test of Skill and Strategy

Pine Valley GC is a par-70 course that measures 7,081 yards from the championship tees. The course is known for its challenging greens, which are often elevated and surrounded by deep bunkers. The fairways are lined with tall pines and oaks, which add to the course's scenic beauty but also present strategic challenges.

One of the most iconic holes at Pine Valley is the par-3 5th hole, known as "Devil's Elbow." This 225-yard hole requires a precise tee shot over a pond and a green that is perched on a hill. The 11th hole, a par-4 known as "Amen Corner," is another challenging hole that features a blind tee shot and a green that is protected by a deep bunker in front.

The Membership: A Prestigious Tradition

Pine Valley GC is a private club with a highly exclusive membership. The club has a strict policy of not releasing membership information, but it is estimated that there are around 1,000 members. The membership includes some of the most prominent figures in golf, business, and politics.

The Legacy: A Course That Inspires and Challenges

Pine Valley GC has been consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the world. In 2022, Golf Digest ranked Pine Valley as the 2nd best golf course in the United States, behind only Augusta National Golf Club. The course has also been recognized by other prestigious organizations, including Golf Magazine and The R&A.

Pine Valley GC has been a source of inspiration for golfers around the world. The course's challenging design and pristine conditions have made it a pilgrimage site for golfers of all levels. The club's commitment to tradition and excellence has also made it a model for other golf courses.

Conclusion: A Golfing Gem that Continues to Captivate

Pine Valley GC is a true golfing gem that has stood the test of time. With its challenging design, pristine conditions, and rich history, Pine Valley GC continues to captivate golfers from around the world. The course is a testament to the enduring power of the game of golf and a reminder of the passion and dedication of those who have shaped its legacy.

Tips for Playing Pine Valley GC

If you are fortunate enough to have the opportunity to play Pine Valley GC, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:

• Book your tee time well in advance. Pine Valley GC is a highly exclusive club, and tee times are limited. It is recommended that you book your tee time at least six months in advance.
• Arrive early. Pine Valley GC is a large course, and it takes time to get around. Arrive early to allow yourself plenty of time to warm up and familiarize yourself with the course.
• Hire a caddie. A caddie can be a valuable asset at Pine Valley GC. They can provide you with insights into the course layout and help you make the right club selections.
• Play your own game. Pine Valley GC is a challenging course, but don't try to do too much. Play your own game and focus on making good shots.
• Have fun. Pine Valley GC is a special place, so make sure to enjoy your experience. Take in the scenery, appreciate the history, and have fun playing the game of golf.

How to Get to Pine Valley GC

Pine Valley GC is located in Clementon, New Jersey, which is about 30 miles east of Philadelphia. The club is easily accessible by car or train.

• By car: From Philadelphia, take I-95 south to Exit 14 (Route 30). Head east on Route 30 for about 10 miles, and then turn right onto Evesham Road. Pine Valley GC is located on the left about 1 mile down the road.
• By train: Take the NJ Transit Atlantic City Line to the Clementon station. From the station, it is about a 10-minute walk to Pine Valley GC.

Table 1: Pine Valley GC Scorecard

Table 2: Pine Valley GC Membership Fees

Table 3: Pine Valley GC Rankings

Table 4: Pine Valley GC Tournament History