Hendon Golf Club: A Century of Excellence

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of North London, Hendon Golf Club stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring legacy of the sport in England. For over a century, this prestigious club has been a destination for discerning golfers, offering an unparalleled golfing experience and contributing significantly to the development of the game.

The Early Years

The club's origins can be traced back to 1899 when a group of enthusiastic golfers established a nine-hole course on farmland in Golders Green. The course was designed by renowned architect Harry Colt, who would later go on to create some of the most iconic courses in the world, including Muirfield and Royal Lytham & St. Annes.

As the game gained popularity, Hendon Golf Club expanded rapidly. In 1901, an additional nine holes were added, and in 1907, the club moved to its current location on Hampstead Lane. The new course, also designed by Colt, was hailed as a masterpiece and quickly established Hendon Golf Club as one of the premier golfing venues in England.

A Century of Championships

Throughout its history, Hendon Golf Club has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the Amateur Championship and the British Ladies Amateur Championship. The club has also been the home course for several legendary golfers, including Sir Henry Cotton, Bernard Darwin, and Sir Michael Bonallack.

In 1951, Hendon Golf Club was selected to host the Ryder Cup, the biennial competition between the United States and Europe. The event was a resounding success, attracting a record crowd of over 100,000 people.

The Course

The Hendon Golf Club course is a challenging and rewarding test of golf for players of all levels. Measuring 6,800 yards from the championship tees, the course features a mix of long and short holes, with undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and well-protected greens.

The signature hole is the 18th, a 550-yard par five that requires a precise tee shot and a well-judged second shot to reach the green in two. The hole is often referred to as "The Himalayas" due to its resemblance to the famous hole on the Old Course at St. Andrews.

The Club Today

Today, Hendon Golf Club continues to thrive as one of the most respected and successful golf clubs in England. The club offers a full range of golfing facilities, including an 18-hole championship course, a nine-hole academy course, a driving range, and practice putting greens.

The club also boasts a vibrant membership of over 800 members, who enjoy a wide range of social and competitive events throughout the year. In addition to golf, the club offers a number of other amenities, including a restaurant, a bar, and a function room.

The Legacy of Hendon Golf Club

For over a century, Hendon Golf Club has been a cornerstone of the golfing community in North London. The club has played a pivotal role in the development of the sport in England, hosting prestigious tournaments, nurturing talented golfers, and providing a welcoming environment for golfers of all levels.

As the club enters its second century, it is poised to continue its proud tradition of excellence and innovation. With its world-class golf course, dedicated membership, and commitment to the sport, Hendon Golf Club is sure to remain a beacon of golfing excellence for generations to come.

Key Figures

• Founded in 1899
• Designed by Harry Colt
• 18-hole championship course and 9-hole academy course
• Hosted the Ryder Cup in 1951
• Over 800 members
• Ranked among the top 100 golf courses in England by Golf World magazine

Benefits of Membership

• Access to the championship golf course and academy course
• Use of the driving range and practice putting greens
• Participation in a wide range of social and competitive events
• Discounts on green fees and other club services
• Reciprocal playing rights at other leading golf clubs

Useful Tables

Table 1: Hole-by-Hole Yardages

Table 2: Club Membership Fees

Table 3: Reciprocal Playing Rights

• Royal St. George's Golf Club
• Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club
• Sunningdale Golf Club
• Wentworth Golf Club
• The Berkshire Golf Club

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1: The Shot of a Lifetime

In the 1951 Ryder Cup, Hendon Golf Club member Max Faulkner holed a 7-iron shot from 178 yards on the 18th hole to secure a 1-point victory for Great Britain. Faulkner's miraculous shot is still regarded as one of the greatest moments in the history of the Ryder Cup.

• Lesson: Never give up, no matter how difficult the situation may seem.

Story 2: The Importance of Mentorship

Sir Henry Cotton, one of the greatest golfers of all time, was a member of Hendon Golf Club for over 50 years. During his time at the club, he mentored countless young golfers, including Bernard Darwin and Sir Michael Bonallack. Cotton's guidance and support helped shape the careers of these two future champions.

• Lesson: The value of mentorship cannot be overstated. Find a mentor who can provide guidance and support as you pursue your goals.

Story 3: The Power of Tradition

Hendon Golf Club has a rich tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. The club's values of sportsmanship, fair play, and camaraderie are evident in every aspect of its operation. This strong sense of tradition has helped to create a unique and enduring golfing experience.

• Lesson: Traditions are important because they provide a sense of continuity and belonging. Embrace the traditions of your organization and work to preserve them for future generations.

Tips and Tricks

• Play the course from the appropriate tees. The championship tees are designed for the most experienced golfers. If you are a beginner or intermediate golfer, play from a shorter set of tees to enjoy a more manageable and enjoyable round.
• Take advantage of the practice facilities. The driving range and practice putting greens are excellent places to improve your game. Use these facilities regularly to sharpen your skills.
• Be respectful of the course and other golfers. Repair your divots, rake the bunkers, and follow the rules of golf. Remember that everyone is entitled to enjoy the course.
• Take a lesson from one of the club's professional coaches. The club's PGA-qualified coaches can help you improve your swing, your course management, and your overall game.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• World-class golf course
• Excellent practice facilities
• Dedicated membership
• Strong tradition
• Reciprocal playing rights at other leading golf clubs

Cons:

• High membership fees
• Crowded at peak times
• Difficult to get a tee time on weekends