“A piece of Scotland in Brazil?” That’s what they used to say about the S\u00e3o Paulo Golf Club. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of golf in Brazil. Let’s explore its rich history.
The S\u00e3o Paulo Golf Club’s story began in the late 19th century. English and Scottish engineers working for the S\u00e3o Paulo Railway wanted to play golf. They first teed off at Ch\u00e1cara Dulley. This area was once owned by Benedictine monks. It belonged to an American named Charles Dulley. It became a hub for British activity in the city.
Urban expansion forced the golfers to move. They relocated to the Bela Vista neighborhood. It was sparsely populated back then. In 1901, this group founded the S\u00e3o Paulo Country Club. They built a new course near Avenida Paulista. Mansions of coffee barons were springing up along this avenue. The golf course became a popular spot for families. Its elevated location earned it the nickname “Morro dos Ingleses” which means “Hill of the English.” That name sticks to this day.
J. M. Stuart won the first tournament in 1903. His name is engraved on the trophy. The trophy remains at the club. It serves as proof of the club’s early existence. The Clark Cup is another historic trophy. It has been contested since 1904.
The “Morro dos Ingleses” attracted more people. Progress arrived. The club moved to Jabaquara. They stayed there until around 1915. The S\u00e3o Paulo Golf Club then moved to Santo Amaro. The “Light” company owned the land. Santo Amaro was an independent municipality back then. The year was 1915. The club grew over the years. It became one of the most traditional in the state. It was then known as the S\u00e3o Paulo Golf Club.
In 1935, the club underwent its first major renovation. Stanley Thompson was hired. He was a renowned golf course architect from the United States. José Maria Gonzalez also helped. He was a long-time club professional. They replaced the sand greens with grass greens.
The old headquarters was demolished in 1964. A new, larger one was built. The grass was replaced with Tifton 328. Most of the greens were remodeled. New tees were added to almost every hole. A driving range was built. A mini golf course was also added. It had six par-3 holes. It was located between holes 13, 14, and 15. It was designed for beginners and children.
The S\u00e3o Paulo Golf Club covers nearly 60 hectares. The 18-hole course has a mini-course with 6 par-3 holes. The terrain is gently rolling with depressions and small lakes. The course is fully grassed and wooded. The S\u00e3o Paulo Golf Club uses the best equipment. Its staff includes engineers, agronomists, and technicians.
The S\u00e3o Paulo Golf Club has hosted many famous people. Arnold Palmer, Sam Snead and Roberto de Vicenzo have played here. Even George Bush Sr and famous Formula One drivers visited here. Rock stars like Alice Cooper too.
From 2013 to 2015, the S\u00e3o Paulo Golf Club hosted a Web.com Tour event. This tour is the gateway to the PGA Tour. The Brazil Champions presented by HSBC offered big prize money. It was the largest golf competition in South America.
Today, the S\u00e3o Paulo Golf Club remains a prestigious venue. It’s a place where the spirit of the game thrives. It links back to the 19th century.