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2023 Genesis Invitational Course Preview – The Riviera Country Club

Avery Wiseman

In this video, I cover The 2023 Genesis Invitational and what to expect from the venue for this week’s event!

History of the Riviera Country Club

The Riviera Country Club, located in Pacific Palisades, California, is one of the most prestigious golf courses in the United States. Its history dates back to the 1920s, when a group of prominent Los Angeles businessmen, including oilman Edward L. Doheny, decided to build a new country club that would rival the best in the country.

The club hired legendary golf course architect George C. Thomas, Jr. to design the course, and construction began in 1925. The course was completed in 1926 and opened for play that same year.

The Riviera Country Club quickly gained a reputation as one of the finest courses in the country. In 1927, it hosted the Los Angeles Open, which was won by Macdonald Smith. The tournament became a regular event on the PGA Tour, and the Riviera would go on to host many of the game’s greatest players over the years.

One of the most famous moments in Riviera history occurred in 1948, when Ben Hogan won the US Open at the course. Hogan had recently survived a near-fatal car accident, and his victory at the Riviera was one of the greatest comebacks in sports history.

The Riviera continued to host major tournaments over the years, including the PGA Championship in 1983, which was won by Hal Sutton, and the US Senior Open in 1998, which was won by Hale Irwin.

One of the most iconic holes on the Riviera course is the par-3 6th hole, which features a deep bunker in the middle of the green. The hole has become known as “Hogan’s Alley” in honor of Ben Hogan, who famously hit a 1-iron shot onto the green during the 1947 LA Open.

In addition to its golf course, the Riviera Country Club is known for its beautiful and elegant clubhouse, which was built in the 1930s. The clubhouse features Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and is a popular location for weddings and other events.

Over the years, the Riviera has hosted many of the most famous and influential people in the world, including politicians, actors, and musicians. In the 1960s, the club was a popular hangout for members of the Rat Pack, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr.

Today, the Riviera Country Club remains one of the most prestigious and exclusive golf courses in the world. It continues to host major tournaments, including the Genesis Invitational, which is one of the premier events on the PGA Tour.

In conclusion, the Riviera Country Club has a rich and storied history, dating back to the 1920s. The course has hosted many of the greatest players in golf history, and its iconic 6th hole is known around the world. The club’s elegant clubhouse and exclusive membership have made it a popular destination for celebrities and high-profile individuals over the years. Today, the Riviera remains a premier golf course and a symbol of excellence in the world of golf.

Course Review

The Riviera Country Club, located in Pacific Palisades, California, is one of the most prestigious and iconic golf courses in the United States. The course has a rich history, having hosted numerous major tournaments and many of the greatest players in golf history. In this course review, we will take a closer look at the layout, design, and overall experience of playing at the Riviera Country Club.

Layout:

The Riviera course is a par-71, 7,013-yard layout that is known for its unique combination of long and short holes. The course is set in the scenic Pacific Palisades and features stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains. The course has a challenging and diverse layout, with narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens.

One of the most famous holes on the Riviera course is the par-3 6th hole, which features a deep bunker in the middle of the green. This hole has become known as “Hogan’s Alley” in honor of Ben Hogan, who famously hit a 1-iron shot onto the green during the 1947 LA Open.

Design:

The Riviera course was designed by legendary golf course architect George C. Thomas, Jr. in the 1920s. Thomas was known for his innovative and creative approach to course design, and the Riviera is a testament to his skill and vision.

The course features a variety of different hole designs, including long par-5s, short par-3s, and challenging par-4s. The layout is designed to test a player’s accuracy and shot-making ability, with narrow fairways and challenging greens that require precision and skill to navigate.

One of the strengths of the Riviera course is its unique combination of long and short holes. The course features several long par-4s and par-5s that require length and power, but also includes several short par-3s that demand precision and accuracy. This balance of length and accuracy makes the Riviera a true test of a player’s all-around game.

Experience:

Playing at the Riviera Country Club is a truly special experience. The course is steeped in history and tradition, and the elegant clubhouse and facilities are world-class. The course is known for its excellent conditioning, with fast and challenging greens that demand a player’s best effort.

The staff at the Riviera Country Club is friendly and professional, and the course is staffed by knowledgeable professionals who are available to provide lessons and advice on all aspects of the game. The practice range and putting green are excellent, and the pro shop is well-stocked with a wide variety of golf equipment and apparel.

One of the unique aspects of playing at the Riviera Country Club is the exclusivity of the club. The course is only open to members and their guests, which makes playing at the Riviera a true mark of prestige and privilege.

Conclusion:

The Riviera Country Club is one of the finest golf courses in the world, with a rich history, challenging layout, and world-class facilities. The course is designed to test a player’s all-around game, with a unique combination of long and short holes that require both length and accuracy.

Playing at the Riviera Country Club is a truly special experience, with a friendly and professional staff, excellent facilities, and a prestigious and exclusive membership. The course is a true gem in the world of golf, and a must-play for anyone who loves the game.