ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Course Report
The course was originally designed by Indiana Golf Hall of Famer Bill Diddle and hosted the 1961 NCAA Men’s Championships, where Jack Nicklaus was medalist.
About
The Ackerman-Allen Course at the Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex is a Pete Dye-designed, 18-hole parkland course set on Purdue University's campus. Originally built in 1934 and completely renovated by Dye in 2016, it features rolling hills, mature hardwoods, bentgrass surfaces, and white sand bunkers. It hosts championship events and offers a challenging, enjoyable layout for all levels.
Caddie Tip
Aggressive play is rewarded on the short par-4s and reachable par-5s, but smart course management is needed to avoid well-placed bunkers, especially off the tee. Keep drives in the fairway to attack pins on spacious, undulating greens. Take note of subtle breaks and stay below the hole whenever possible.
The Main Challenge
Ackerman-Allen’s main challenge lies in its length from the tips, constant elevation shifts, and well-protected greens. Bunkers strategically guard landing areas and finely contoured greens demand precise iron play and deft putting. The closing stretch, especially 16 through 18, tests nerves and shotmaking under pressure.
The Good
Golfers consistently praise the challenging yet fair design that showcases Pete Dye’s strategic use of bunkering and elevation changes. The course offers fun risk-reward opportunities on par-5s, memorable finishing holes, and outstanding bentgrass conditions that rival private clubs.
The Not So Good
Feedback often mentions that pace of play can lag during busy college and tournament stretches. In wet weather, drainage issues can make certain fairways play soft, detracting from ideal firm-and-fast conditions some golfers expect from Dye designs.
Signature Hole:
#
6
The par-5 6th hole tempts golfers with a reachable green in two for those willing to challenge the fairway bunkers off the tee. A strategic layup leaves a comfortable approach shot, but water and bunkering guard the green closely. Risk and reward are ever-present, making it a standout among Pete Dye's portfolio.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse features a pro shop with Purdue golf gear, locker rooms, comfortable lounge space, meeting rooms for events, and a grill with indoor/outdoor seating. Ample parking and proximity to campus venues enhance convenience for daily play and special events.
Practice Facilities
Players enjoy an expansive driving range, putting and chipping greens, and an indoor golf training center—ideal for Purdue’s NCAA teams and public guests. Reliable instruction, club fitting, and a well-stocked Pro Shop create a full-service environment for all golfers.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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