The Inside Swing

Maridoe Golf Club

Dallas, Texas

One of the most talked-about new courses in America, Maridoe is a brutally challenging Steve Smyers design built for serious golfers. The course features vast bunker complexes, bold green contours, and a no-tee-time walk-only philosophy.

History & Heritage

Maridoe Golf Club has a layered history beginning as the Columbian Country Club of Dallas in Carrollton, Texas. The club closed in 2008 and briefly became the Honors Golf Club Dallas before being completely reimagined by architect Steve Smyers. Smyers completed his dramatic redesign and the course reopened as Maridoe Golf Club in 2017.

Smyers's design philosophy was to create a world-class experience reflecting the modern game's demands. The result is one of the most demanding courses in America, stretching to nearly 7,834 yards from the back tees with a slope of 155 and a course rating of 80.5.

Maridoe quickly earned national Top 100 rankings. The club operates with a walking-only, no-tee-time philosophy, attracting serious players who relish the challenge. NorthBridge Bermuda fairways and Champion Bermuda greens provide tournament-caliber surfaces year-round.

Signature Holes

3
Hole 3 Par 4 · 490 yards

A demanding long par 4 setting the tone for the challenge ahead. The approach must navigate bold green contours and strategic bunkering.

7
Hole 7 Par 5 · 618 yards

The number one handicap hole at 618 yards. This monster par 5 requires three well-struck shots, with hazards threatening at every stage.

14
Hole 14 Par 3 · 182 yards

The easiest hole by handicap offers a brief respite, though Smyers's green contours still demand a precise tee shot to the correct portion of the surface.

18
Hole 18 Par 4 · 475 yards

A strong finishing hole with deep bunkers and bold contours guarding the final green.

What to Expect

Maridoe is not for the faint of heart. The course stretches to nearly 7,900 yards from the tips, though forward tees offer more enjoyable yardages. Smyers's design features vast bunker complexes with shaved faces, bold undulating green contours, and shaved runoff areas demanding a sharp short game.

The walking-only philosophy and lack of tee times create a laid-back, player-focused atmosphere despite the intense difficulty. Caddies are available and recommended for first-time visitors.

Playing Tips

Play the right tees. Even from forward tees, green complexes and bunkering provide ample challenge. The greens are the primary defense — Smyers designed bold contours with shaved collection areas punishing wrong-side misses.

Landing on the correct tier is essential. A ball on the wrong level leads to three-putts even for skilled players. Study the green slopes carefully before putting.

Highlights

  • Walking-only philosophy
  • One of America's toughest courses
  • Instant Top 100 ranking

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Maridoe walking only?
The club operates a walking-only policy to preserve the pure golf experience and turf quality. Caddies are available.
How difficult is Maridoe?
From the back tees it measures nearly 7,900 yards with a slope of 155 and rating of 80.5. Forward tees make it playable for various skill levels.
What was the course before Maridoe?
Originally Columbian Country Club of Dallas. After closing in 2008, it briefly operated as the Honors Golf Club before Smyers completed his redesign in 2017.
Can the public play Maridoe?
No. Maridoe is a private club with no public access.

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