Golf in the State of Rhode Island
Rhode Island, officially the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, and nicknamed the “Ocean State”, is the smallest U.S. state, but its large population makes it densely populated. Bordering states include Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York, and to the south the state borders the Atlantic Ocean. Interestingly, it was the first state to disavow allegiance to the British Crown, however, many residents have made a vow of allegiance to its golf courses. Even though the state geography is small, it still has room for 55 courses, capital city Providence leading the way with 43 and Warwick with 6.
The 18-hole championship Newport National Golf Club, Middletown, has been called the best public course in New England. Brisk winds off the Atlantic add to the challenge of this links-style course. Hidden gem Meadow Brooks Golf Course, Richmond, is considered a "must play" Rhode Island course. Chemawa Golf Course, Attleboro, an 18-hole public course, offers good “conditions, service and value”. Donald Ross designed the 18-hole championship course at the Wannamoisett Country Club, Providence, to “bring out of the player the best golf that is in him”, and it does not disappoint. Generous fairways and large greens characterise the Beaver River Golf Club in Richmond.
Born in Bristol and still sharing Bristol residency with that of Atlanta, Georgia, Billy Andrade was Rolex Junior Player of the Year in 1981. He contributes much of his winnings to charity, especially to help needy children. In 2006 Allen Doyle, born in Woonsocket and raised in Boston, became the oldest U.S. Senior Open champ at the age of 57. Bob Eastwood was born in Providence and spent his youth growing up in California. Already learning golf at the age of 4, he went on to win many amateur and professional tournaments. Brad Faxon, born in Oceanport, NJ, was proclaimed the nation's most outstanding amateur golfer in 1983. He was not known for long drives but made up for it by being a great putter, leading the PGA in putting average for several years. He and Billy Andrade together have established a children's charity in the Rhode Island area. P.H. Horgan III, born in Newport, was once disqualified from play after a round was over, for forgetting to register for the event!