Golf in the State of New Hampshire
Nicknamed the “Granite State”, New Hampshire shares borders with the Atlantic Ocean, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont and the Canadian province of Quebec. Living free, you can choose from the 104 golf courses which adorn the state, with Claremont boasting 15, capital Concord 12, Laconia 9, 5 in Keene and 4 apiece in Derry and largest city Manchester. The balance are spread out in various smaller jurisdictions. A popular place for winter sports, golf is mostly popular in summer and fall months.
The 18-hole Crotched Mountain Golf Club, Francestown, designed in part by Donald Ross, is set among New Hampshire's rolling hills and natural beauty. Both beginners and experienced golfers will enjoy the 18-hole Canterbury Woods Country Club, Canterbury, especially the challenging greens. The Breakfast Hill Golf Club, Greenland, has been highly ranked for many years - if you like, you can even play before breakfast! Hidden greens and tight fairways make interesting play at Oak Hill Golf Course, Meredith. White Mountain Country Club, Ashland, with wide fairways and soft greens, calls itself “user-friendly”. Don’t overlook the Overlook Golf Club, in Hollis, with a private-club feel but always open to the public.
Pro Jane Blaylock, born in Portsmouth, was 1969's LPGA rookie of the year and is credited with the record for making the most consecutive cuts on the pro Tour. Born in Lebanon and raised in Australia, Aaron Baddeley is often ranked as one of the PGA's best putters, ranked top ten in putts per green. Kirk Hanefield, born in Claremont and prominent in New Hampshire PGA circles, now resides in South Hamilton, Massachusetts. Jack McGowan, from Concord, has many top-ten finishes to his credit.