Whispers of legends echo across the fairways. Welcome to Olympia Fields Country Club a place where golfing history unfolds. Established in 1915 this prestigious club boasts a rich heritage. It’s more than just a golf course it’s a living testament to the sport’s evolution.
Olympia Fields is known for its two championship courses North and South. The North Course designed by Willie Park Jr is considered one of Chicago’s top three. It’s consistently ranked among the nation’s best. The South Course designed by Tom Bendelow holds its own too regularly placing among Illinois’ top ten. This makes Olympia Fields unique. It’s one of the few private clubs in the US with multiple highly ranked courses.
The club’s history is fascinating. Amos Alonzo Stagg the legendary football coach served as its first president. He even helped choose the club’s name. The magnificent clubhouse completed in 1925 is a sight to behold. It’s a stunning half-timbered English Tudor Revival building. Its iconic 80-foot clock tower is a landmark. The clubhouse’s size is remarkable. It was the largest private golf clubhouse in the world when built. It even had its own hospital and fire station.
Olympia Fields has hosted major tournaments including multiple U S Opens and PGA Championships. The 1928 U S Open saw a dramatic 36-hole playoff. Johnny Farrell defeated the legendary Bobby Jones. The 2003 U S Open was won by Jim Furyk. Tiger Woods’ incredible shot on the sixth hole that year is still talked about. The club also hosted the 2017 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. The BMW Championship graced its fairways in 2020 and 2023.
Olympia Fields wasn’t always 36 holes. It originally had four 18-hole courses. Economic challenges during World War II forced the club to sell land. This led to the combination of the remaining holes forming the current South Course. The club had a history of exclusion. It didn’t admit Jewish or Catholic members for a time. However that policy changed. Two Catholic families were admitted around 1958.
More than just a golfing destination Olympia Fields Country Club is a living piece of American history. It’s a place where tradition and excellence meet. It is a legacy built on thrilling competitions and remarkable architectural achievements. You are standing before a true giant a testament to the enduring allure of the game of golf.