Oakmont Country Club
Oakmont, Pennsylvania
Host of nine U.S. Opens and five PGA Championships, Oakmont is one of the most demanding and historic courses in golf. The Henry Fownes design features over 200 bunkers, the famous Church Pews bunker complex, lightning-fast greens, and a relentless par-71 that has humbled the greatest players in history.
History & Heritage
Founded in 1903 by Pittsburgh steel magnate Henry C. Fownes on 191 acres along the Allegheny River. His son William, the 1910 U.S. Amateur champion, continued toughening the course for decades.
Oakmont has hosted nine U.S. Opens (1927, 1935, 1953, 1962, 1973, 1983, 1994, 2007, 2016) plus 2025, more than any other course. The 1962 Open produced Jack Nicklaus's first major over Arnold Palmer. Gil Hanse restored the course by removing thousands of trees to honor Fownes's original open vision.
Signature Holes
One of the toughest opening holes in golf. Ranked first in scoring resistance at the 2016 U.S. Open.
Home of the famous Church Pews bunker complex with grass-covered ridges between the 3rd and 4th fairways.
One of the longest holes in championship golf, demanding three excellent shots.
What to Expect
Over 200 bunkers, lightning-fast greens, and narrow fairways on rolling terrain along the Allegheny River. Par 71, over 7,200 yards. Walking with caddies is standard.
Playing Tips
Avoiding bunkers is paramount since recovery rarely results in par. Greens are among the fastest in golf. Leave approaches below the hole and accept that par is a good score on most holes.
Highlights
- ✓ Nine-time U.S. Open host — most of any course
- ✓ Over 200 bunkers including the iconic Church Pews
- ✓ One of the most demanding courses in golf history
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the public play Oakmont?
What are the Church Pews?
How many U.S. Opens?
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