GOLF recently released its latest ranking of the Top 100 Courses in the U.S. (2024-25), a list that includes 11 newcomers. Some of them you might know. Others you might not. Here, in our newcomer spotlights, we’ll introduce you to these rookie Top 100 gems.
Location: Aberdeen, N.C.
Type: Resort
Year opened: 2024
Architect: Tom Doak
Give a talented architect a sandy, rolling piece of land and place few restrictions on him or her, and it’s amazing what can be produced. Donald Ross did so with a flourish at this resort, and this time, it was Tom Doak’s turn — and he was bonused with not having to make an allowance for where homes might go or having the nines return. The result is a meandering tour that enjoys its own pacing. The first eight holes feature three par-4s — the drivable 4th, the burly dogleg-right 6th and the intermediate length 8th that plays into old mining spoils — that highlight the property’s diversity. Meanwhile, the run from the bruising uphill 468-yard 9th to the 264-yard 14th is one of Doak’s sternest stretches. Natural wetlands feature at two of the final four holes. This variety of obstacles ultimately makes No. 10 an immediate stalwart among the resort’s offerings.
“Pinehurst No. 10 highlights the best aspects of what a sand based design should be — thoughtful play and positioning over power. The front-to-back tilting green at the opening hole prepares you for something unique. The drivable 3rd entices bold and often times foolish play. The 8th fairway looks like the ocean during a hurricane with bold features yet a reward for attacking the dune on the right. The back nine is loaded with half-par holes where well-conceived and executed shots will be handsomely rewarded. The design from tee to green is the perfect balance to the design of Pinehurst No. 2.”
“No. 10 is on a very special piece of land and Tom Doak is a master of nature, subtlety and restraint. The par-3 2nd hole is perhaps the most striking and memorable one-shotter in the entire Pinehurst collection. Great variety in length and movement of the holes. Green complexes get and keep your attention and there’s even a rare super deceptive runaway green on the first par-5 after the turn that really gets you talking to yourself (in a good way!). It’s a robust walk but an invigorating one.”
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