Bethpage Black - A Public Golf Treasure

Course Overview

Bethpage Black, designed by A.W. Tillinghast and opened in 1936, is one of five courses at Bethpage State Park in New York. The course is known for its challenging layout, deep bunkers, and thick rough. The course measures 7,468 yards from the championship tees and plays to a par of 71. The layout features dramatic elevation changes and requires precise shot-making throughout the round.

Signature Holes

• The 4th hole, a long par-5, features a dramatic downhill tee shot and a challenging approach to an elevated green.
• The 15th hole, a long par-4, requires a precise tee shot to avoid the deep fairway bunkers.
• The 10th hole, a challenging par-4, features a narrow fairway and a well-protected green.
• The 18th hole, a long par-4, requires a precise approach shot to a well-bunkered green.
• The 7th hole, a short par-3, features a challenging green complex with deep bunkers.

Course Condition

1. The course is maintained to championship standards, with firm and fast fairways.
2. The greens are kept at tournament speed, featuring subtle undulations.
3. The rough is typically kept at a challenging length, especially during tournament play.
4. The bunkers are filled with high-quality sand and feature distinctive faces.
5. The course drainage system is excellent, allowing play even after heavy rainfall.

Playing Experience

Playing Bethpage Black is a challenging but rewarding experience. The course requires precise shot-making and careful course management. The elevation changes and thick rough add to the challenge. The course is walkable, and caddies are available to provide local knowledge. The experience is enhanced by the beautiful parkland setting and the rich history of the course.

Tournament History

• Bethpage Black hosted the U.S. Open in 2002 and 2009, with Tiger Woods and Lucas Glover as champions.
• The course hosted The Barclays in 2012 and 2016, part of the FedEx Cup playoffs.
• The PGA Championship was held at Bethpage Black in 2019, won by Brooks Koepka.
• The course will host the Ryder Cup in 2025, marking its first time hosting the event.
• The course has hosted numerous other professional and amateur events over the years.