ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
The James River Course has been a regular host to the PGA TOUR Champions Dominion Energy Charity Classic, drawing top professional golfers each fall and cementing its reputation as one of Virginia’s top championship venues.
About
The James River Course at The Country Club of Virginia is a classic parkland layout designed by William Flynn in 1928. Renowned for hosting the PGA TOUR Champions' Dominion Energy Charity Classic, the course features mature trees, strategic bunkering, and rolling terrain, offering a traditional yet challenging experience in Richmond's West End for the club's distinguished private membership.
Caddie Tip
Pay close attention to the subtle breaks on the greens and the shifting wind on approach shots; approaches often require landing short to bounce on. Positioning off the tee is critical, as mature trees can block clear paths to the green on several doglegs. First-time players are well-advised to play conservative off the tee and focus on precise iron play.
The Main Challenge
The greatest challenge of the James River Course is the demand for accuracy off the tee to avoid mature hardwoods guarding many fairways, coupled with large, tiered greens that reward precise approach play and penalize misses with tricky up-and-downs. Finishing holes, especially under tournament pressure, test both nerves and shot execution.
The Good
Golfers rave about the strategic design by William Flynn, which challenges shot-making and offers an ideal blend of risk and reward, especially during tournament conditions. The immaculate fairways, tree-lined corridors, and a prestigious club atmosphere create a memorable championship experience. The course is particularly admired for its classic routing and large, undulating greens.
The Not So Good
Because of its exclusive private nature, access to non-members is extremely limited, frustrating many in the local golf community. Some golfers have noted limited views and lack of water features, and during peak member-play months, a few fairways can get somewhat crowded and play slow.
Signature Hole:
#
18
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Clubhouse
The James River Clubhouse features fine and casual dining, banquet spaces, locker rooms, lounges, and full-service golf shop. Members enjoy a fitness center and access to racquet and swim facilities, along with a staff known for professional hospitality and service.
Practice Facilities
The club offers an expansive practice range, a chipping area, and multiple well-maintained putting greens. Short-game facilities, including practice bunkers, are available for members. PGA-certified instruction and club fitting are also provided year-round, matching the standards of top private clubs.
Dress Code:
Prestigious
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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