ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Difficulty
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Course Report
The Olde Farm hosted the 'Big 3' charity event in 2010, uniting Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Arnold Palmer, and raising over $15 million for Mountain Mission School.
About
The Olde Farm is a world-class private club just outside Bristol, Virginia, designed by Bobby Weed and founded by Jim McGlothlin in 1999. The course covers rolling farmland with beautiful holes routed through tranquil Appalachian scenery. Noted for exceptional conditioning, variety, and an award-winning clubhouse, it is regarded as one of the finest private club experiences in the Mid-Atlantic.
Caddie Tip
Drive placement is critical, especially on holes like the 16th where water crowds the right side. Play left and use the natural contours to your advantage—approach shots tend to feed off the hills. On the subtle greens, favor the low side and don’t be aggressive with downhill putts, as the surfaces run true and fast.
The Main Challenge
The greatest difficulty comes from the strong par 4s on the back nine, especially around water hazards where well-struck shots are mandatory. Greens have subtle breaks that can deceive even experienced players. Precision and smart course management are rewarded throughout the round.
The Good
Most golfers rave about the flawless bentgrass conditioning, the thoughtful routing by Bobby Weed which maximizes natural beauty, and the serene, private agricultural setting. Every round delivers a tranquil, unhurried experience with attentive hospitality and a welcoming yet exclusive atmosphere.
The Not So Good
Some repeat visitors note that being a private, low-play club has made it harder to maintain the same buzz of social activity as larger, busier clubs. Others wish for a bit more elevation change and challenge on the front nine to match the drama of the finishing stretch.
Signature Hole:
#
16
The signature 16th hole is a demanding 461-yard par 4 called "Duck Blind." The hole features water running the full length of the right side, requiring a precise tee shot. The approach is just as challenging, with the green tucked up against the water and little room for error, demanding both strategy and nerve.
Clubhouse
The award-winning clubhouse provides elegant and casual dining, private lockers, event spaces, and a highly attentive staff. The food is highly regarded, and the club regularly hosts both golf and social events of the highest standard.
Practice Facilities
The Olde Farm offers a full-service practice area with expansive bentgrass greens, large short game areas, bunkers, and multiple target greens. Members can expect top-quality range balls, on-course chipping areas, and expert professional instruction.
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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