Exclusive Kinloch Golf Club Opens

The private, invitation-only Kinloch Golf Club in Richmond, Virginia opened on April 14, 2001. The course is a co-design of acclaimed amateur player, Vinny Giles, and golf architect Lester George. Most of the limited 300 memberships have been filled at the club, which will include peripheral houses.

After touring the new course, first-timers have been impressed. “The reaction is phenomenal,” said Giles. “The standard comment from local people is, ‘We never thought anything like this could exist in Richmond. Nothing else around here has the finished look this golf course has, with bentgrass fairways and bluegrass to the treeline. We have never had a bentgrass fairway in this area.”

Director of Golf Phil Owenby, has also heard many positive comments. “The word ‘spectacular’ is being used a lot,” said Owenby. “It is a spectacular layout that fits the terrain so well. Because the older specimen trees were left, many are saying the course looks like it has been here forever. Lester did a great job, leaving the wetlands, creeks and cliffs, and there are wonderful features and vistas.”

Many visitors touring the course felt that “the back nine is spectacular, but the front nine may be even better,” Giles said. “The lake on the back nine gives prettier views. But the front nine is tree-lined all the way around and the 6th, 7th and 8th are probably the best three holes in a row on the course. I don’t see a weak hole out there.”

Taking credit for only for 20 percent of the design, Giles said: “Lester has done a phenomenal job. The grassing pattern is really impressive and the variety is excellent.”

Kinloch Golf Club also features a short-game practice area and teaching center. The 3,200-square-foot teaching center features three indoor hitting bays, video equipment and a video room. For more information on this private Richmond club, call 804/784-6737.