Discovering Bethpage Black: A Golfing Icon

Bethpage Black, located in Farmingdale, New York, has become a household name among golf enthusiasts, having opened its greens and fairways to the public in 1936. This storied course, part of the Bethpage State Park, has gained prominence in the golfing world, especially since the turn of the century. Hosting major championships like the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship has solidified its reputation as a daunting yet enticing challenge for golfers of all levels.

Upcoming Events and Tournament Highlights

The impressive list of events at Bethpage Black continues to grow. In 2025, the iconic course will add the Ryder Cup to its roster, where Keegan Bradley’s Team USA will face Luke Donald’s Team Europe. This follows a heart-wrenching loss two years prior at Marco Simone in Italy (16.5-11.5). Events like these not only attract thousands of spectators but also offer golf fans worldwide ample opportunities to enjoy the high-stakes action that unfolds on the legendary turf.

The Warning Sign: A Symbol of Challenge

Before players even step foot on the first tee, they are greeted by an infamous warning sign: "Warning – The Black Course Is An Extremely Difficult Course Which We Recommend Only For Highly Skilled Golfers." This cautionary note has become a symbol of Bethpage Black, gaining notoriety during the 2002 U.S. Open when only one player, Tiger Woods, finished under par. The sign serves as an ominous reminder of the formidable challenges ahead, while also providing a fun photo op for many visitors.

More Than Just a Golf Course

Bethpage State Park offers more than just the challenging play of Bethpage Black. The park is home to four other courses: the Yellow, Green, Blue, and Red. Interestingly, the Green Course was the first to open, with the others designed to complement its layout and provide varying levels of difficulty. The Yellow Course, often regarded as the easiest, contrasts sharply with Bethpage Black, which boasts a reputation as the most difficult of the five.

Aside from golfing, visitors can enjoy tennis courts, a polo field, cross-country skiing trails, hiking, biking, and various picnic areas. The rich diversity of options makes Bethpage State Park a popular destination for both golfers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The Brutal Course Rating

Bethpage Black is not just renowned for its challenging layout; it’s backed by harsh statistics. With a course rating of 78 and a slope rating of 155—the highest possible—golfers must be on their A-game to navigate its narrow fairways, deep rough, and treacherous bunkers. During tournaments, such as the PGA Championship in 2019, Brooks Koepka set a course record of 63. Contrastingly, many players have found themselves struggling to keep pace with the challenging terrain.

The Designer Debate

For years, A.W. Tillinghast was credited as the primary designer of Bethpage Black. However, a push for proper recognition came from Joe Burbeck, the son of the original park superintendent. After much debate and research, it was established that Joseph H. Burbeck was indeed the primary architect of the course, with Tillinghast serving in a consultant role. This revelation emphasizes the rich history and collaborative efforts that contributed to the creation of this iconic golfing venue.

Affordable Accessibility

One of the most remarkable aspects of Bethpage Black is how accessible it remains to the public. Despite its popularity and the prestige it carries, playing a round here is incredibly affordable. New York State residents can play for as little as $44, especially for twilight tee times, while out-of-state players still enjoy reasonable rates, ranging from $88 to $160 on weekends. Such affordability ensures that golfing at a top-tier course is within reach for many.

The Waiting Game for Tee Times

While fees are friendly, securing a tee time can often be a challenge due to the high demand. Golfers eager for a chance to play at Bethpage Black typically arrive early, or rather late the previous day. The parking lot fills up with enthusiastic players hoping to snag a ticket for the next day’s rounds, illustrating the course’s popularity and allure.

Historic Significance as a Public Course

Significantly, the U.S. Open held at Bethpage Black in 2002 marked the first time a public course had hosted this major championship. Dubbed the "People’s U.S. Open," it served to redefine how we view elite golf venues. Subsequent renovations were made to prepare for this prestigious event, proving that the spirit of public access can coexist with world-class sporting excellence.

Conclusion: A Golfer’s Dream Destination

Bethpage Black is more than just a golf course; it’s a powerful symbol of what golf can be—challenging, accessible, and community-focused. With its rich history, difficult layout, and affordable pricing, it remains a must-visit for every golfer aspiring to test their skills against one of the finest courses in the United States. Whether you’re looking to play in a tournament or simply enjoy a day of golf, Bethpage Black offers an experience like no other, making it an essential chapter in the story of American golf.