Worcester CC

1925 U.S. Open

Course: Private, 18 holes, par 70
Architect: Donald Ross
Founded: July 1900Location: Worcester, MA
Web Site: www.worcestercc.org
Date Played: Summer of 2001
Score: N/A

"Walking in Worcester"

In 2001, I took my first job as a golf professional at Oak Hill Country Club in Fitchburg, MA. Located one hour west of Boston, I was surrounded by amazing golf courses. Golf Courses that I could have easily accessed if it wasn't for the fact that I was working 80+ hours a week! Although it was very difficult to muster up the energy to golf on a day off, I am very happy that I did so when invited to play at Worcester Country Club.

Host of the 1925 U.S. Open won by Willie MacFarlane, this historic venue has played host to numerous major events including the 1927 Ryder Cup, 1939 Massachusetts Open (won by Byron Nelson), and the 1960 Women's U.S. Open.

Unfortunately for us, I was not concerned or aware of the great golf history that had taken place at Worcester. At the time I was more concerned with where I stood with par rather than who stood there before me. Not completely blinded by score, Worcester is where I saw my first historical plaque on a golf course. I believe the plaque was located on the third hole where during a practice round for the 1925 US Open, Walter Hagen recorded his very first hole-in-one. This plaque sparked my interest in historical golf courses and events and to this day I always look closely to find similar items at any golf course I have the honor of playing.

Another distinct memory I have of Worcester C.C. is Ross' great use of the lands natural undulation. Considering cart use was only permitted for those who could not physically walk the course, every hill and valley became steeper and deeper as the round went on. I vividly remember one hole where the green complex elevated itself from the fairway some 25 feet in a

matter of yards. Any shot coming up short would most surely plummet down the front of the green and leave one with a pitch that would make Phil grip down a little tighter on his 64 degree wedge. Just another reason why Donald Ross is regarded as one of the greatest golf course architects of all time and this golfers absolute favorite.

As I look back on my days in New England I am happy that I took advantage of this opportunity, but I deeply regret not playing more of the amazing golf courses that surrounded me. As I continue on my quest, I have chosen to replay Worcester at some point so that I can truly appreciate this great club and report back to you on my findings.

Fairways and Greens,

Joe