The Inside Swing

Honors Course

Nashville, Tennessee

Located in Ooltewah near Chattanooga, The Honors Course is a Pete Dye design that has hosted the U.S. Amateur, the NCAA Championship, and numerous USGA events. The course is widely regarded as the finest in Tennessee and one of Pete Dye's most complete designs.

History & Heritage

The Honors Course was created by Jack Lupton, the Chattanooga Coca-Cola bottling magnate, who envisioned a course dedicated to honoring amateur golf. Pete Dye began construction at the base of White Mountain in Ooltewah on July 23, 1981, and the course opened in 1983.

The club has hosted the U.S. Amateur, U.S. Mid-Amateur, U.S. Senior Amateur, Curtis Cup, NCAA Championship, and numerous state amateur events. Ranked number one in Tennessee and among America's top 50, it is regarded as one of Pete Dye's greatest creations.

Signature Holes

15
Hole 15 Par 4 · 475 yards

A demanding par 4 with forced water carry. The fairway is flanked by water requiring an accurate drive and courageous approach.

3
Hole 3 Par 3 · 180 yards

An early par 3 with Dye's characteristic green contours and well-placed bunkers setting the strategic tone.

18
Hole 18 Par 4 · 420 yards

A strong finisher with creek tributaries exposed in front of the green, a fitting conclusion to a great championship course.

6
Hole 6 Par 5 · 520 yards

A reachable par 5 marking the transition from woodland to more open terrain. Risk-reward decisions define the experience.

What to Expect

A Pete Dye masterpiece in the tranquil woods of the Ooltewah foothills near Chattanooga. The par-72 layout plays to approximately 7,500 yards from back tees. The championship pedigree is evident throughout, with exceptional conditioning and a serene wooded setting.

Playing Tips

Dye challenges the eye before challenging the swing. Many holes present optical illusions making distances deceiving. Trust your yardage. Water comes into play on multiple back-nine holes, so course management and avoiding big numbers are key.

Highlights

  • Hosted U.S. Amateur and NCAA Championship
  • Finest course in Tennessee
  • One of Pete Dye's most complete designs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the public play?
No. The Honors Course is private with no public access.
What events has it hosted?
The U.S. Amateur, U.S. Mid-Amateur, U.S. Senior Amateur, Curtis Cup, NCAA Championship, and numerous state events.
Who created it?
Jack Lupton created the club; Pete Dye designed the course, opening in 1983.
Is it in Nashville?
No. It is in Ooltewah near Chattanooga, about 130 miles southeast of Nashville.

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