Watching the majors always whets the appetites of amateur golfers.
And while the desire to get out and play your local course increases after watching the world’s best in action, the ambitious are thinking bigger.
Can you actually tee it up where you’ve seen Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau strut their stuff? Let’s find out.
The Masters – Augusta National – April 10-13
Augusta National, annual home of The Masters, is one of the most exclusive clubs in the world. As with most things at the famed Georgia venue, there’s a large element of secrecy but it’s understood that there are around 300 members.
So, method one is to befriend one of them. Easy. Scroll through your phone contacts and give either Bill (Gates), Jack (Nicklaus), Peyton (Manning) or Condoleezza (Rice) a buzz.
If that seems a little daunting, there are a couple of other ways. Volunteers at the Masters get invited to play the course on an “Appreciation Day” in May. Become one… except there’s a long waiting list.
An alternative is to become a golf writer! Members of the media at Augusta can enter a ballot to play the course the Monday morning after the Masters has finished. Around 28 names come out of the hat, although if you win, you can’t enter again for seven years.
In short, no, you can’t just wade a wad of cash at the men in Green Jackets and get a tee time. It’s all about connections and who you know.
The PGA Championship – Quail Hollow – May 15-18
Quail Hollow in Charlotte, North Carolina, hosted the 2017 PGA Championship won by Justin Thomas, while it also staged the 2022 Presidents Cup, Davis Love leading the Americans to a 17.5-12.5 victory over The Internationals. It’s also the regular host of the Wells Fargo Championship, an event Rory McIlroy has won four times (2010, 2015, 2021 and 2024).
But trying to hit the shots Rory has hit won’t be easy. Quail Hollow is a private member club with only around 350 members. If you can somehow get a recommendation from a current member, initiation fees are reported to be $100,000! Slightly easier – and much cheaper – is to play as the guest of a member. Rory is one, as are fellow pros Webb Simpson and Harold Varner III.
Like Augusta National, you’re going to have your work seriously cut out to enjoy an 18 at Quail Hollow.
The US Open – Oakmont Country Club – June 12-15
Another country club hosts the third major of the year so you know where this is going. Yes, Oakmont is a private club reserved for its members and guests so you can’t just rock up with your mates and play.
They do hold some charity events for non-members, but it remains a massive longshot that you’d be able to play the course where Dustin Johnson (2016), Angel Cabrera (2007), Ernie Els (1994), Larry Nelson (1983), Johnny Miller (1973), Jack Nicklaus (1962) and Ben Hogan (1953) have won the US Open.
Then again, perhaps it’s best to avoid the place if you’re an amateur. Why? It would ruin your confidence. Here’s a review from a few years ago. “I’ve played Oakmont four times, hate it. Much too tough for a six handicap. If you’re just 10 or 15 yards off the very narrow fairways, it’s a lost ball in the high grass. I’ve been offered to play it again by a member. I declined.”
The Open Championship – Royal Portrush – July 17-20
It’s looking pretty grim so far for the amateur golf enthusiast who wants to walk in the footsteps of legends.
But thankfully some good old Irish hospitality saves the day as it is possible to book a round at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, the scene of Shane Lowry’s thrilling Open win in 2019.
From their website: “We are delighted to welcome visitors from all over the world to visit Royal Portrush and participate in a world-class golfing experience in a warm and welcoming environment against the stunning backdrop of the Causeway Coast & Glens area of outstanding natural beauty. To ensure availability, pre-booking of all tee times is essential.
“All green fees are payable in full on booking and are non-refundable in the event of cancellation. Visitors are expected to be members of recognised golf clubs and handicap certificates may be requested prior to play.”
Green fees for 2024: £340pp (1 May to 30 September)
That’s the fee for Dunluce Links, the Open course. It’s also possible to play the neighbouring Valley Links for £140pp (1 May to 30 September).
Caddie hire is also available. Elite Caddies (Blue Bib) will cost £70 + gratuity, with a Trainee Caddie (Yellow Bib) £50 + gratuity.
“As many of our caddies are from the local area, they will be able to give you an insight into the history of the wider community and advice on places to visit to get a feel for Portrush.”
Tee Time Enquiries: angus@royalportrushgolfclub.com
Caddie Enquiries: golfops@royalportrushgolfclub.com
Office/Tee Times: +4428 7082 2311
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