When it comes to identifying a favorite golf course of the year, Kevin Cunningham relies on a gut feeling and factors beyond just the course conditions. His favorite course of 2024 is the Rip Van Winkle Country Club in Palenville, N.Y., a hidden gem that he discovered after moving to the Catskills region from Brooklyn. The region is home to numerous affordable and well-maintained par-3 and 9-hole courses, making it a golfer’s paradise. Despite spending most of his time at the Alapaha Golf Center’s executive course, it was a visit to Rip Van Winkle that solidified it as his top pick.
The Rip Van Winkle Country Club is a nine-hole public course that dates back to 1919 and was designed by legendary course architect Donald Ross. While it may not boast major-championship conditions, the course features smooth, quick greens, a relaxed atmosphere, and a good pace of play. One of the standout features of the Rip is the stunning mountain views that can be enjoyed on every hole, a common feature at many courses in the area. Despite its historical significance and well-maintained conditions, a round at The Rip costs just $18, making it a rare find for golfers looking to play on a Ross-designed course on a budget.
In addition to Rip Van Winkle, Cunningham also mentions Brooklawn Country Club in Fairfield, Conn., as a close runner-up for his favorite course of the year. Having grown up playing at Brooklawn, where his parents were members, Cunningham has a special connection to the course. Designed by A.W. Tillinghast and founded in 1895, Brooklawn is known for its challenging layout and has hosted several USGA championships. Cunningham’s experience working on the greens crew at Brooklawn further solidified his fondness for the course and its rich history.
The Catskills region, where Cunningham now resides, offers a plethora of golfing options for enthusiasts looking to explore new courses. With its affordable pricing, well-maintained conditions, and picturesque mountain views, the area has become a favorite destination for Cunningham to hone his skills and enjoy the game he loves. Whether playing a quick round after work or spending a leisurely day on the course, the Catskills provide a diverse range of golfing experiences for players of all levels.
As Cunningham reflects on his unexpected move to the Catskills and the discovery of Rip Van Winkle as his favorite course of the year, he emphasizes the importance of following your instincts when choosing a favorite course. While criteria such as course design, conditions, and history are important, a personal connection to a course can often sway one’s choice. Whether it’s the breathtaking views, affordability, or memories made on a course, each golfer’s favorite course is a unique reflection of their individual experiences and preferences.
In conclusion, Rip Van Winkle Country Club in Palenville, N.Y., stands out as Kevin Cunningham’s favorite course of 2024, thanks to its historical significance, well-maintained conditions, and stunning mountain views. The course’s affordability and relaxed atmosphere make it a standout choice for golfers looking to enjoy a round on a Donald Ross-designed course without breaking the bank. With the Catskills region offering a variety of golfing options and scenic beauty, Cunningham’s move to the area has opened up new opportunities to explore and appreciate the game of golf. Whether playing at Rip Van Winkle or revisiting childhood memories at Brooklawn Country Club, Cunningham’s golfing journey in 2024 has been a memorable one filled with discovery and appreciation for the sport.
