Elite Traveler January-February 2018

elite traveler JAN/FEB 2018 83

Oakmont OAKMONT, PENNSYLVANIA, USA

Opened in 1903, Oakmont is one of the oldest top-ranked courses in the US, and one of the hardest — even without any water hazards. With 175 deep bunkers, fast, undulating greens and sloping fairways, the course is certainly challenging. As Arnold Palmer said, “You can hit 72 greens [in regulation] in the Open at Oakmont and not come close to winning.” Perhaps the most well-known hazard is the Church Pews bunker at the third and fourth holes, named after the grass-covered ridges that look like rows of benches. It’s the only course in the world designed by Henry Fownes, and since 2007 has virtually no trees, making for incredible views and allowing you to see the entire course in all its intimidating glory. Par 71 (70 for men’s majors) Tournaments hosted US Open, PGA Championships, US Women’s Open

Pebble Beach Golf Links MONTEREY COUNTY, CALIFORNIA, USA Next year, Pebble Beach Golf Links will be hosting the US Open Championship — the sixth time the course has hosted the tournament, more than any other course in the past 50 years. The event coincides with the club’s 100th anniversary, and many historical moments have happened here: Jack Nicklaus secured a US Open Victory in 1972 when he executed one of the most famous shots in golf history, hitting a dead-perfect 1-iron that bounced and struck the flagship before resting next to the cup for a tap-in birdie. The course is considered one of the most beautiful in the world — the rugged coastline and expansive views of Carmel Bay and the Pacific Ocean are a perfect backdrop to the narrow fairways. There’s a particularly spectacular view at the 18th hole. Par 72 Tournaments hosted US Open, PGA Championship, AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-AM, Nature Valley First Tee Open at Pebble Beach