The Ross Legacy: A Tour of Donald Ross Golf Courses in RI

No single architect has had a greater impact on American golf than Donald Ross, and his influence is deeply felt across Rhode Island. The state is home to a remarkable collection of his designs, each bearing the hallmarks of his genius: strategic bunkering, natural routing, and his famously challenging crowned greens.

The Masterpiece: Wannamoisett Country Club

Often considered one of the finest Donald Ross designs in existence, Wannamoisett is a par-69 marvel. Ross masterfully routed 18 holes on a compact piece of land, creating a course that is both incredibly challenging and endlessly interesting. Its par-4s are legendary, and the course has tested the best amateur golfers for decades in the prestigious Northeast Amateur tournament.

The Public Gem: Triggs Memorial Golf Course

Triggs is a gift to public golf. It's a pure Ross layout that has remained accessible to all. Playing Triggs is like stepping back in time. You can see Ross's strategic philosophy on every hole, from the placement of fairway bunkers to the subtle slopes of the greens that repel anything but a perfectly struck shot. It's a must-play for any student of golf course architecture.

The Coastal Classic: Winnapaug Country Club

Located in Westerly, Winnapaug offers the rare combination of a Ross design with ocean views. While not as punishing as his championship layouts, Winny is a delightful course with small, tricky greens and a routing that takes full advantage of its coastal setting. It's a perfect example of how Ross could create a fun, strategic course for everyday play.

Other Notable Ross Designs

Rhode Island Country Club and Point Judith Country Club are other private gems that showcase Ross's work, further cementing the state's status as a key location for his enduring legacy.