A Historic Jewel in American Golf
Introduction
Located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan, Detroit Golf Club (DGC) is a legendary institution that blends history, championship golf, and world-class amenities. Established in 1899, this prestigious club has hosted numerous professional and amateur tournaments, including the Rocket Mortgage Classic, a key event on the PGA Tour. With its Donald Ross-designed courses, stunning tree-lined fairways, and deep-rooted legacy in American golf, Detroit Golf Club stands as one of the finest private clubs in the Midwest.
Course Overview
Detroit Golf Club features two championship courses, both crafted by the legendary Donald Ross:
- North Course (Par 72, 7,370 yards): The primary course used for the Rocket Mortgage Classic, known for its tight fairways, undulating greens, and deep bunkering.
- South Course (Par 68, 5,967 yards): A slightly shorter yet equally strategic layout, offering a more relaxed but still challenging round of golf.
The club’s historic clubhouse, designed by Albert Kahn, adds to its charm, making it a revered landmark in Detroit’s golfing history.
What Makes Detroit Golf Club Unique?
Detroit Golf Club stands apart as one of the few Donald Ross-designed courses that remain relatively untouched, preserving the architect’s original vision. Some standout features include:
- Classic Parkland Layout: Towering oak and maple trees, narrow fairways, and well-placed hazards demand accuracy and course management.
- Signature Hole – The 14th (North Course): A challenging par-5 with strategic bunkering, requiring precision on every shot.
- Fast, Subtle Greens: Typical of Donald Ross courses, the greens are lightning-fast and deceptively tricky.
- Urban Golfing Gem: Unlike many historic clubs, DGC is nestled in the heart of Detroit, offering a unique blend of big-city energy and traditional golf serenity.
Tournaments & Legacy
Detroit Golf Club is best known for hosting the Rocket Mortgage Classic, a PGA Tour event that has been held annually since 2019. The tournament attracts some of the world’s best golfers and has provided thrilling moments, including:
- 2020 Rocket Mortgage Classic: Bryson DeChambeau’s dominant victory, showcasing his power-driven game.
- 2022 Rocket Mortgage Classic: Tony Finau’s wire-to-wire win, cementing his place among the tour’s elite.
Champions of the Last Decade
The Rocket Mortgage Classic has quickly become a fan-favorite PGA Tour stop. Here are the recent champions:
- 2024: Cam Davis
- 2023: Rickie Fowler
- 2022: Tony Finau
- 2021: Cam Davis
- 2020: Bryson DeChambeau
World-Class Facilities & Membership
Detroit Golf Club is a private, members-only club, offering unparalleled facilities, including:
- Historic Clubhouse: Featuring fine dining, elegant lounges, and event spaces.
- State-of-the-Art Practice Facilities: Including a driving range, short-game area, and putting greens.
- Exclusive Membership: Access to both courses, dining privileges, and club events, with limited guest access.
Golfing Legends & Course Records
Detroit Golf Club has seen some of the biggest names in golf walk its fairways. Among them:
- Bryson DeChambeau: Holds the Rocket Mortgage Classic scoring record (-23).
- Tony Finau: Delivered a dominant five-shot victory in 2022.
- Rickie Fowler: Cemented his comeback with a win in 2023.
Course Records:
- Lowest Round: 63 (-9), tied by multiple PGA Tour players.
- Longest Drive: 376 yards, recorded during the Rocket Mortgage Classic.
- Most Birdies in a Single Tournament: 28, showcasing the scoring opportunities on the North Course.
Fascinating Facts & Little-Known Secrets
- One of Donald Ross’s Final Masterpieces: Detroit Golf Club is one of the last courses designed by the legendary architect, preserving his classic golf principles.
- A Club with Motor City Roots: Many Detroit business leaders and celebrities have been members, making it a historic hub for the city’s elite.
- Tiger Woods’ Detroit Connection: While Woods hasn’t played in the Rocket Mortgage Classic, he has practiced at the club and holds strong ties to the Detroit golf scene.
Why Every Golfer Should Play Here
Detroit Golf Club is more than just a golf course—it’s a legacy of championship golf, timeless design, and Motor City culture. Whether playing on its immaculate Donald Ross fairways, experiencing the electric atmosphere of the Rocket Mortgage Classic, or enjoying the rich history of the clubhouse, DGC is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.
As one of the best private clubs in the Midwest, Detroit Golf Club offers an unparalleled mix of history, modern competition, and exclusive golf experiences. If you ever have the opportunity to step onto its hallowed fairways, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of legends.