Met Links: Reviving a Golden Age Golf Course in Rhode Island

A new 9-hole golf course has emerged from the historical footprint of a century-old design, breathing fresh life into a beloved Rhode Island treasure. For avid golfers, Met Links has become a beacon of nostalgia, reigniting memories of the original Metacomet Golf Club. This article explores the rich history of Met Links, its revival, and what it offers to both old-school enthusiasts and a new generation of golfers.

The Legacy of Metacomet Golf Club

Founded in the early 1900s, Metacomet Golf Club, originally located in the lush landscape of East Providence, RI, has seen its share of ups and downs. Relocated in 1919, it is said to have been designed either by the club’s head professional, Leonard Byles, or the renowned two-time Open Championship winner, Willie Park Jr. Some even attribute its design to a collaboration of the two.

As golf enthusiasts reflect on their experiences at Metacomet, its reputation solidifies as a sanctuary for dedicated players willing to tackle its challenges. This 6,500-yard layout is notorious for its narrow playing corridors, rugged putting surfaces, and strategically placed hazards. For those able to navigate its complexities, it’s an accomplishment worth celebrating.

Donald Ross: The Master Designer

The course’s rich history wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Donald Ross, the legendary course designer who, a few years after the club’s inception, left his mark with critical modifications that established its identity. Ross’s intervention included redesigning the routing and crafting new greens and bunkers, which are now considered hallmarks of the course. His influence created a course that became a beloved local standard, renowned yet not nationally spotlighted like other famous Ross-designed courses.

As Metacomet transitioned to Metacomet Country Club, it remained a private sanctuary for golf purists. The club carved out its niche among a plethora of Ross designs in the region, earning respect and admiration from local golf aficionados while steadily cementing a storied legacy.

The Fall and Rise of Metacomet

However, the course’s decline in popularity and financial difficulties led to a significant turning point in its history. Mention “the Faxon 5,” and seasoned golfers might recount the tale involving eight-time Tour winner Brad Faxon and his co-investors who aimed to save the club from financial ruin. The narrative took an unexpected twist, leading to legal proceedings, but ultimately the community rallied around a vision to restore the course’s former glory.

In 2019, Faxon and his group acquired the struggling club, but issues surged to the forefront when the membership filed a fraud lawsuit against them. This case tangled the club’s revival narrative until it concluded in 2024, allowing for the dawn of a new chapter.

A New Direction: Real Estate and Restoration

With the challenges behind it, the focus shifted to the land itself. In 2020, Metacomet closed its doors for the final time and was sold to a Providence-based development firm. The new owners proposed a hybrid plan to repurpose the course: the back nine would be designated for real estate development while the front nine would welcome a revival that held true to the course’s original spirit.

Engaging local architect Robert McNeil and his Northeast Golf Company team, a vision took shape—a 9-hole course that would pay homage to Metacomet’s storied past while embracing modern golfing trends.

Reviving History with Met Links

The revitalization led to a remarkable transformation with the opening of Met Links in the summer of 2023. McNeil and his team managed to resurrect seven of the original holes using their historic footprints, restoring their Donald Ross characteristics, including strategic features designed to challenge golfers. With this blend of history and innovation, Met Links is not merely a replacement; it’s a newfound experience shaped by the past.

Two new holes integrated into the layout were crafted carefully to match the character and demands of the original design. This revitalization appeals to both seasoned golfers who fondly remember Metacomet and newcomers eager to discover the charm of a classic course.

An Inclusive Golfing Experience

Met Links is not just about nostalgia. The course is publicly accessible, meaning everyone has the opportunity to experience its unique charm. The emphasis on inclusive design complements contemporary branding, making Met Links a vibrant addition to Rhode Island’s golfing landscape. As it stands, the course invites old friends and new players alike to come together on its greens.

The Modern Golfer’s Perspective

While some long-time players may reminisce about what once was, Met Links provides a fresh perspective on golf in East Providence. Today’s golfers need to appreciate its rebirth as an opportunity to experience a piece of history. The public layout marries strategic play with a welcoming atmosphere, making it a fitting homage to its predecessors.

Visiting Met Links allows golfers to not only play a round but to engage with a rich history dating back over a century. It becomes a journey through time, experiencing the game as it was in the Golden Age, thus creating an invaluable connection between past and present.

Conclusion: A Course Worth Playing

In conclusion, Met Links stands as a testament to resilience and revival in the sport of golf. With its remarkable heritage and forward-thinking approach, it captures the essence of a time when golf was an intricate dance of strategy, skill, and camaraderie. Whether you are a veteran of Metacomet or a newcomer eager to make your mark, Met Links offers something special—a chance to partake in a shared legacy set against the scenic backdrop of Rhode Island.

As you prepare to tee off, remember to embrace the pleasure of the game while immersing yourself in a course enriched with history. Met Links is not just another golf course; it is a revived chapter of the storied legacy of one of Rhode Island’s beloved clubs, proving that even in change, roots run deep. So grab your clubs, gather your friends, and discover the enchanting landscape that awaits at Met Links—a golfing experience unlike any other.