The Inside Swing

Robert Trent Jones Golf Club

Gainesville, Virginia

Private Club · 18 Holes · Par 72 · 7,340 yds · Members Only · 4.6

Built as a tribute to the legendary architect and host of the 1994, 2000, and 2005 Presidents Cups, Robert Trent Jones Golf Club features a dramatic lakeside layout in Virginia's rolling piedmont. The challenging design demands precise shot placement around Lake Manassas.

History & Heritage

Robert Trent Jones Golf Club was designed by RTJ Sr. and opened in 1991 in Gainesville, Virginia, purpose-built as a world-class competition venue. It hosted the first four Presidents Cups held in the U.S. (1994, 1996, 2000, 2005) — with Gerald Ford chairing the inaugural 1994 match — and the 2024 Solheim Cup.

The centerpiece is 850-acre Lake Manassas, visible from nearly every hole. Eight holes on the back nine run directly along its banks, transforming the course\'s character from inland parkland to dramatic lakeside golf.

The 1994 Presidents Cup ended in the only tie in the event\'s history (before the 2003 tie).

Signature Holes

11
Hole 11 Par 3 · 215 yards

One of two par 3s on Lake Manassas (with the 9th) and considered among the most attractive holes in Virginia. The tee shot carries over an inlet to a green perched on the shoreline with water on multiple sides.

18
Hole 18 Par 4 · 400 yards

A strong finishing hole along the lake — the stage for many dramatic Presidents Cup and Solheim Cup moments. Water runs the entire left side, demanding accuracy from tee to green.

What to Expect

The front nine plays as strong inland parkland. The back nine transforms as it reaches Lake Manassas — eight holes along the banks with stunning views and demanding forced carries over water.

RTJ Sr.\'s trademark bold, heroic design: wide fairways narrowing at landing zones, large greens with severe slopes, and risk-reward options on nearly every hole. Ten holes directly interact with the lake.

Strictly private — one of the most prestigious clubs in Virginia.

Playing Tips

The back nine is the marquee stretch. Lake Manassas creates wind exposure not experienced on the front — recalibrate your distances.

Holes 9 and 11 are the signature par 3s over the lake. Pick the right club and commit — no bailout over water.

RTJ Sr. greens are large but heavily contoured. Being on the correct tier matters more than being pin-high.

Pick your line off the tee and commit. The course rewards bold, decisive play.

Highlights

  • Three-time Presidents Cup host
  • Lake Manassas dramatic lakeside routing
  • Tribute to legendary architect RTJ Sr.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Presidents Cups has it hosted?
Four — 1994, 1996, 2000, and 2005. Also hosted the 2024 Solheim Cup.
What is Lake Manassas?
An 850-acre lake visible from nearly every hole. Eight back-nine holes run directly along its banks, creating dramatic lakeside golf.
Can the public play?
No. RTJ Golf Club is strictly private — purpose-built as a world-class competition venue.

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