Sagamore Golf Club

The Good: Sagamore Club is a pristine, visually intimidating Jack Nicklaus signature design that is his only in the greater Indianapolis area. A fairly recent design (2003), it has distinct features similar to other midwestern designs built in the same time period (Bull at Pinehurst Farms, Harbor Shores). While the design isn’t overly strategic, it is absolutely gorgeous, with water features on most of the Par-3’s and Par-5’s, making for a chance to lose a ton of balls throughout the round. Fairways were as smooth as carpet and the rough (being grown out for an NCAA event later in May) was major championship challenging. Fabulous greens that hold well and aren’t overly undulated, making them fairly benign compared to most Nicklaus tracks. Excellent clubhouse with expansive dining and bar area, as well as nice practice area.

The Bad: I wouldn’t consider Sagamore a “fun course”, but more one that is uber penal if you miss a shot. While there is plenty of room off the tee, Sagamore is one of the more difficult approach shot golf courses I’ve played and can be a too tough a slog for the mid-high handicapper. The greens were almost TOO slow for my liking but did putt true. The professional golf staff was very accommodating at check-in, however they was no on-course service to be found.

The Verdict: The Sagamore is an excellent golf experience designed for the low handicap player. It is one of the more aesthetically impressive courses in Indiana that I’ve played – likely in my Top 3 in the state.

Best Hole: Hard to argue with many of the holes, particularly on the closing half, but the short Par-5 18th is really a showstopper. A cape-style tee design that forces players to decide how much water to cut off with their drive. Too far right and you’re in traps (or worse, like me) or too far left and you’re swimming. Nice approach to a green guarded by water left.

Super layout. Nicklaus design. All the course you want.