Aronimink Golf Club
Newtown Square, Pennsylvania
A Donald Ross masterpiece that hosted the 2018 BMW Championship, Aronimink is considered one of Ross's finest designs. The rolling layout through mature Philadelphia Main Line woodlands features bold strategic bunkering and superb green complexes that reward precision shotmaking.
History & Heritage
Aronimink Golf Club was founded in 1896 and moved to its current Newtown Square location on the Philadelphia Main Line where Donald Ross completed his design in 1928. Ross reportedly declared it his masterpiece, stating he intended to make it his finest course. The club's name derives from a Lenape word meaning "running waters."
The course hosted the 1962 PGA Championship won by Gary Player and the 1977 U.S. Amateur. Over the decades, Dick Wilson and later George and Tom Fazio made modifications. In 2016-2017, Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner completed a comprehensive restoration that returned the course to Ross's original vision, removing decades of accumulated changes.
The restored Aronimink hosted the 2018 BMW Championship, where Keegan Bradley won in a playoff. The 2026 PGA Championship is scheduled for Aronimink, bringing another major championship to this storied venue. It is consistently ranked among the top 25 courses in America.
Signature Holes
A sweeping, demanding par 4 with Ross's characteristic bunkering framing the approach. The green complex features bold contours that reward a precise approach shot from the correct angle.
A strong opening hole on the back nine that plays through a corridor of mature hardwoods. The green is one of the most challenging on the course, with significant slope.
A long par 3 known as "The Sink at the Mink" for its sunken green setting. One of Ross's most distinctive par 3 designs, demanding a precise long iron to a well-protected target.
A powerful finishing hole that climbs toward the clubhouse. The approach is demanding, playing uphill to a green complex that has decided numerous championships.
What to Expect
Aronimink is a Donald Ross masterpiece on the rolling terrain of the Philadelphia Main Line. Following the Hanse restoration, the course features Ross's original bold bunkering, challenging green contours, and strategic variety. Mature hardwoods frame every hole, creating a classic parkland atmosphere.
At 7,237 yards from the tips, Aronimink is a serious championship test. The green complexes are the primary defense, featuring Ross's signature contours that create challenging pin positions and demand precise approach play.
Playing Tips
Aronimink's greens are the key to scoring. Ross designed bold contours with multiple tiers and fall-off areas that punish misses. Hitting to the correct portion of each green is essential, and leaving approach shots on the low side provides easier putts.
The restored bunkers are strategically placed to challenge the optimal line on every hole. Understanding where the trouble lies and playing away from it is more important than chasing distance.
Highlights
- ✓ 2018 BMW Championship host
- ✓ Donald Ross masterpiece on the Main Line
- ✓ Bold strategic bunkering and green complexes
Frequently Asked Questions
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