The Inside Swing

Crooked Stick Golf Club

Carmel, Indiana

Private Club · 18 Holes · Par 72 · 7,516 yds · Members Only · 4.8

Host of the 1991 PGA Championship won by John Daly and the 2012 BMW Championship, Crooked Stick is Pete Dye's longtime home club and one of his most personal designs. The layout through rolling central Indiana terrain features Dye's bold shaping, strategic water hazards, and railroad-tie bulkheads.

History & Heritage

Crooked Stick opened in 1964 as Pete Dye\'s longtime home club — the course where Dye became Dye. Pete and Alice Dye lived adjacent for decades. Famous for hosting the 1991 PGA Championship, where 9th alternate John Daly drove overnight from Memphis, never saw the course in practice, and won his first major at 12-under. Also hosted the 2012 BMW Championship.

Considered the first course where Dye developed his signature language — railroad ties, island-style features, and psychological intimidation.

Signature Holes

6
Hole 6 Par 3 · 195 yards

A beautiful par 3 over water featuring a covered red barn bridge, mature trees, and sparkling blue water. The most photographed and recognizable hole on the course.

What to Expect

A long, strategic Pete Dye layout with railroad-tie-lined bunkers, deceptive angles, and nuanced greens. Dye continually tweaked the course over decades, so the design reflects his full career arc. Strategic positioning over raw power.

Strictly private — one of Indiana\'s most prestigious clubs in Carmel.

Playing Tips

Dye\'s optical illusions are everywhere — trust yardages, not your eyes.

Bunkers are deep and penalizing. Dye designed many greens to accept running approaches.

The course rewards positioning over power throughout.

Highlights

  • 1991 PGA Championship and 2012 BMW Championship host
  • Pete Dye's personal home club
  • Bold Dye shaping through rolling Indiana terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this where John Daly won?
Yes — the 1991 PGA Championship. Daly drove overnight as the 9th alternate, never practiced, and won his first major at 12-under.
Was this Dye\'s home club?
Yes — Pete and Alice Dye lived adjacent to the course for decades. Considered where Dye developed his signature design language.

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