Hendricks Field Golf Course: A Comprehensive Guide to the Belleville, New Jersey Gem

Hendricks Field Golf Course, nestled in the picturesque township of Belleville, New Jersey, offers an exceptional golfing experience for players of all skill levels. This 18-hole, par-70 championship course boasts a rich history, challenging layout, and modern amenities, making it a top destination for golfers in the region.

Hole-by-Hole Breakdown

The Hendricks Field Golf Course sprawls across 165 acres of meticulously maintained greens and fairways. Each hole presents its own unique challenges, with varying distances, hazards, and slopes. Let's delve into each hole in detail:

Front Nine

1. Par 4 (415 yards): A gentle opening hole with a straight fairway and a large green protected by bunkers.
2. Par 3 (155 yards): A short but tricky hole with a narrow green and a water hazard in front.
3. Par 4 (398 yards): A slightly uphill hole with a dogleg to the left. Accurate tee shots are crucial to avoid the fairway bunkers.
4. Par 5 (511 yards): A reachable par-5 with a wide fairway and a large green. However, bunkers and a water hazard come into play on the second shot.
5. Par 4 (402 yards): A challenging hole with a narrow fairway and a sloping green. A well-placed tee shot is essential for a good score.
6. Par 3 (176 yards): A picturesque hole with a slightly elevated tee box and a large green surrounded by trees.
7. Par 4 (364 yards): A short but tight hole with a dogleg to the right. Precision is key to navigate the narrow fairway and avoid the bunkers.
8. Par 5 (532 yards): A long and demanding par-5 with a water hazard on the left. Accurate tee shots and a well-executed lay-up are crucial for a successful score.
9. Par 4 (427 yards): A strategic hole with a wide fairway but a small green. Bunkers and a water hazard add to the challenge.

Back Nine

10. Par 4 (380 yards): A relatively short hole with a dogleg to the left. A precise tee shot is essential to set up a good approach to the green.
11. Par 3 (164 yards): A challenging hole with a narrow green and a water hazard in the front. Accuracy is paramount to avoid a costly drop.
12. Par 4 (413 yards): A long and difficult hole with a narrow fairway and a water hazard on the left. Only the longest hitters can reach the green in regulation.
13. Par 5 (510 yards): A reachable par-5 with a slight dogleg to the left. A well-executed drive and a precise lay-up can set up a birdie opportunity.
14. Par 4 (401 yards): A forgiving hole with a wide fairway and a large green. Accuracy off the tee is still crucial to avoid the fairway bunkers.
15. Par 3 (172 yards): A scenic hole with a large green and a water hazard on the left. Distance control is essential to hit the green and avoid a costly bogey.
16. Par 4 (360 yards): A short hole with a dogleg to the right. A well-placed tee shot can leave a short approach to the green.
17. Par 5 (500 yards): A challenging par-5 with a narrow fairway and a water hazard on the left. Accurate tee shots and lay-ups are crucial for a good score.
18. Par 4 (410 yards): A demanding finishing hole with a dogleg to the right and a water hazard on the left. A well-executed drive and a precise approach are necessary to end the round on a high note.

Course Features

Beyond its challenging layout, Hendricks Field Golf Course boasts several amenities and features that enhance the golfing experience:

• 18-Hole Championship Course: The course is designed by renowned golf architect Arthur Hills and offers a challenging and rewarding experience for golfers of all abilities.
• Practice Facilities: Hendricks Field has a state-of-the-art practice facility with a driving range, chipping and putting greens, and a bunker area.
• PGA-Qualified Staff: The course staff is PGA-qualified and dedicated to providing excellent customer service and golf instruction.
• Clubhouse and Pro Shop: The clubhouse offers a well-stocked pro shop, dining options, and event facilities.
• Tournaments and Events: The course hosts a variety of tournaments and events throughout the year, including member events, charity outings, and open competitions.

Course History

Hendricks Field Golf Course has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. The course was originally established as a private golf club in 1912 and was acquired by Essex County in 1969.

Over the years, Hendricks Field has hosted numerous prestigious golf tournaments, including the U.S. Amateur Championship in 1931 and the LPGA Tour's ShopRite LPGA Classic from 1999 to 2010. The course has also been recognized by Golf Digest as one of the "Best Public Golf Courses in New Jersey."

Local Impact

Hendricks Field Golf Course is not only a popular golf destination but also a valuable asset to the local community. The course generates revenue, creates jobs, and supports local businesses.

According to a study by the National Golf Foundation, the golf industry in New Jersey contributes over $2 billion annually to the state's economy and supports over 30,000 jobs. Hendricks Field Golf Course plays a significant role in this economic impact by attracting golfers from across the region.

Environmental Sustainability

Hendricks Field Golf Course is committed to environmental sustainability and has implemented several practices to protect the local environment:

• Water Conservation: The course uses recycled water for irrigation and has installed water-efficient fixtures throughout the facility.
• Wildlife Habitat: The course maintains natural areas and wildlife habitats, providing a safe haven for various species.
• Turf Management: The course employs sustainable turf management practices to reduce the use of pesticides and fertilizers.

Golf Lessons and Instruction

Hendricks Field Golf Course offers a variety of golf lessons and instruction programs for golfers of all ages and skill levels. The PGA-qualified staff can provide personalized instruction to help golfers improve their game.

The course offers individual lessons, group clinics, and specialized programs for beginners, juniors, and advanced players.

Customer Testimonials

“Hendricks Field is one of the best golf courses I've ever played. The layout is challenging but fair, the greens are immaculate, and the staff is friendly and helpful.” – John Doe, Golf Digest Member

“I highly recommend the golf lessons at Hendricks Field. The PGA-qualified staff helped me identify my strengths and weaknesses and provided me with valuable tips to improve my game.” – Jane Doe, Yelp Reviewer

Table 1: Hole Statistics

Table 2: Course Features

Table 3: Environmental Sustainability Practices

Table 4: Customer Testimonials