Private Club 30 minutes from Manhattan

[SLUGCC2002]

On 9/20/2021 at 5:54 PM, Smart Water said:

How hard is Westchester Country Club or Sleepy Hollow to join? If anyone has contacts or info on either I would really appreciate a PM. Early 30s live on the UES.

 

 

 

It helps to know multiple members at both places. Not sure how long Sleepy's waiting list is, but I'm told by friends who are members that Westchester has a long waiting list, even for younger members, and the order you get in is somewhat determined by who you know. You'll have a mid-five-figure initiation fee at either place, which is more like six figures after age 40.

[Golong1994]

@fundustrialwere you shopping around at other spots before choosing WYK? Recently moved to Bronxville would love to juxtapose WYK to Siwanoy if you have any figures/deets. Thanks 

[neurofidelity]

On 9/14/2021 at 1:48 PM, jin91 said:

Bumping this. I am looking to get a membership around westchester area as I live around west harlem. Any recommendations? I am thinking on Leewood CC/Pelham CC ,etc I think the price is affordable except that Pelham CC has initiation fee but can go with it.

Does anyone have membership at Leewood or Pelham and comment on the club?

Hey I was wondering if you ended up joining a club. Would you mind sharing your experience? Thanks!

[SunsetValley]

@neurofidelity I’m looking to join a club in west Long Island and happy to share what I learn if that’s helpful.

 

Any current LI private club members? I was interested in Lake Success, North Hills, Engineers, Garden City, Inwood, Seawane, and a few others if anyone has info…

Edited March 1, 2022 by SunsetValley

[MikeFoxplaysGolf]

I’ve been considering Lake Success - I’m a 37 year old living on the UWS and doing the reverse commute to Great Neck.  Hesitant because I’m a relative newbie - I started playing last April but I got prett my obsessed with the game - prior to the winter slow down (that I’m slowly coming out of) I was practicing multiple times a week and playing as many rounds as I could - I got in 94 rounds between April and December.  I’m playing off a 19 right now but went on a couple heaters over the season, with a one time low score of 85.  
 

this course seems to have the best location for me since I’m going to Great Neck every day, I’d be able to use it often.  Anyone know the practice hours and earliest/latest tee times? 
 

 I could see really hitting the practice facilities in the mornings before work, maybe sprinkle in a few 9s in the morning, and lots of 9s in the evening.  
 

all in all im wondering if this would be a good course for me.  I’m not good but I’m serious about improving my game.  Practice facilities, especially chipping and putting greens are really important to me.  Would this be a place I would feel welcomed and maybe be paired up with someone on my level or better or should I stick to public courses until I improve?

[MikeFoxplaysGolf]

I’ve been considering Lake Success - I’m a 37 year old living in the city on the upper west side but I work in Great Neck and have a car.  Hesitant because I’m a relative newbie - I started playing last April but I got pretty my obsessed with the game - prior to the winter slow down (that I’m slowly coming out of) I was practicing multiple times a week and playing as many rounds as I could - I got in 94 rounds between April and December.  I’m playing off a 19 right now but went on a couple heaters over the season, with a one time low score of 85.  

 

this course seems to have the best location for me since I’m going to Great Neck every day, I’d be able to use it often.  Anyone know the practice hours and earliest/latest tee times? 

 

 I could see really hitting the practice facilities in the mornings before work, maybe sprinkle in a few 9s in the morning, and lots of 9s in the evening.  

 

all in all im wondering if this would be a good course for me.  I’m not good but I’m serious about improving my game.  Practice facilities, especially chipping and putting greens are really important to me.  Would this be a place I would feel welcomed and maybe be paired up with someone on my level or better or should I stick to public courses until I improve?

[djonno]

Echoing MikeFox, I’m heavily considering Lake Success after reading this thread. I’m also on the east side of Manhattan, so it seems ideal from a commute perspective. Any more info anyone can share? I’ve had a couple emails with the pro Robby, would love to get out for a test round on the course before I bit the bullet. The one concern I have is the lack of driving range, but if there is at least the small one to warm up on I can make it work.

[johnnyputts]

I belonged to Lake Success last summer as an under 40.  Live in the South Bronx, just across river from Harlem.  I found it to be a really nice place, took some lessons with Robby, which were also very good.  Pace of play is generally excellent.  When I would go in the afternoons, I could get there around 4:30 on weekdays and the place would be basically empty, could play alone and easily get in 18 if you wanted before dark.  The problem for me was the traffic.  I could theoretically get there in 25 minutes, but if I wanted to go on a weekday anytime after 2 pm, it could be more like 55.  The truth is, it was still kind of worth it given the condition of the course and pace of play once you’re there, but it really started to wear on me, and when you add in the 30 dollar mandatory tee fee for 18 holes that’s paid even if you walk, and I always walk, along with the toll each way to get over the bridge and back, I decided not to do it this year.  Happy to answer any more questions.

[djonno]

Hey johnnyputts, thanks for the input. I played a round there as a tryout on Friday, and it went well. Robby seemed very nice, and the members and other staff I met and/or played with were great. You’re right on though that my number one concern now is the traffic…took me 25 mins to get there but over an hour to get back. Though I think given the times I’d go and where I’d be coming from I’m hoping it won’t be too bad. Ultimately I’m probably going to pull the trigger this coming weekend.

 

Can you comment on the vibe or anything for early afternoon weekend rounds? Especially getting in as a single and meeting people etc.

[mmfreyre123]

On 5/29/2020 at 10:22 PM, fundustrial said:

Replied.

Hi,

Edited May 4, 2022 by mmfreyre123

[Zthundy]

Hey everyone I wanted to bump this thread. What’s the latest process in joining Lake Success? Is there a massive waitlist? 

[mmfreyre123]

Anyone has information on financials regarding Quaker ridge or Apawamis for under <40 membership? I am seriously interested in joining a good place!

[SLUGCC2002]

9 hours ago, mmfreyre123 said:

Anyone has information on financials regarding Quaker ridge or Apawamis for under <40 membership? I am seriously interested in joining a good place!

 

There's a waitlist for golf at Apawamis. Last I heard the initiation for a full membership was up to $95K, it's probably less than that for juniors once you get in, but it might take a few years.

 

Quaker Ridge isn't easy to get into if your parents aren't in there already.

[mmfreyre123]

Thank you so much for your response! Im happy to hear Any other place you recommend that I check out in that area? Apawamis was my first choice cause its were I have some members for referrals 

[mmfreyre123]

Does anyone have any membership information on Essex County country club? Junior and full?

[TerraNova_2]

Wanted to bump this thread. Does anyone have any information on Wykagyl or Fenway that they can share? Dues / fees etc? Sounds like there may be a waitlist at Wyk..any clue how long it may be? Looking to for a junior membership.

[SLUGCC2002]

On 6/10/2022 at 9:40 AM, TerraNova_2 said:

Wanted to bump this thread. Does anyone have any information on Wykagyl or Fenway that they can share? Dues / fees etc? Sounds like there may be a waitlist at Wyk..any clue how long it may be? Looking to for a junior membership.

 

Fenway is a Jewish club and difficult to get into, with a smaller membership and dues around $20K. Wykagyl is not Jewish, but has a waiting list, and to my knowledge doesn't have any Jewish or other minority members. Pre-Covid, Fenway was offering a season membership for people to try it out, but I think that's overwith now.

[31ejm]

As of last spring wykagl had a waitlist for under 35 and over 36. Need two sponsors and three letters I believe, so seems you need to have a few relationships with members. I think it’s 60 or 80 to join depending on age. 

[TerraNova_2]

23 hours ago, SLUGCC2002 said:

 

Fenway is a Jewish club and difficult to get into, with a smaller membership and dues around $20K. Wykagyl is not Jewish, but has a waiting list, and to my knowledge doesn't have any Jewish or other minority members. Pre-Covid, Fenway was offering a season membership for people to try it out, but I think that's overwith now.

@SLUGCC2002Appreciate that insight. I'm not Jewish, so sounds like Fenway isnt an option, but maybe worth getting on the Wyk wait list for down the road...

 

Ever come across Bonnie Briar CC in Larchmont? Can't find too much public info about it on google or on these forums but seems like it could be a decent spot? Facilities look solid and good location for someone commuting from the city. 

Edited June 15, 2022 by TerraNova_2
typo

[SLUGCC2002]

30 minutes ago, TerraNova_2 said:

@SLUGCC2002Appreciate that insight. I'm not Jewish, so sounds like Fenway isnt an option, but maybe worth getting on the Wyk wait list for down the road...

 

Ever come across Bonnie Briar CC in Larchmont? Can't find too much public info about it on google or on these forums but seems like it could be a decent spot? Facilities look solid and good location for someone commuting from the city. 

 

It's a Tillinghast course that needs a lot of work. It's definitely in the lower end of the 'B' club range. I'd bet they have a waiting list, but it's probably more affordable than Wykagyl.

[mmfreyre123]

Anyone could share any insight on Essex County country club? I have been trying to get in touch with no success 

[TerraNova_2]

1 hour ago, SLUGCC2002 said:

 

It's a Tillinghast course that needs a lot of work. It's definitely in the lower end of the 'B' club range. I'd bet they have a waiting list, but it's probably more affordable than Wykagyl.

Thanks, super helpful. Out of curiosity, what other local clubs would you put into that 'B' category? Assuming WF, Quaker, Fenway, Wykagyl are some of the 'A' clubs?

[SLUGCC2002]

6 hours ago, TerraNova_2 said:

Thanks, super helpful. Out of curiosity, what other local clubs would you put into that 'B' category? Assuming WF, Quaker, Fenway, Wykagyl are some of the 'A' clubs?

'A' Clubs

Winged Foot**

Westchester** 

Quaker Ridge

Fenway*

Century*

Wykagyl* 

Siwanoy

Whippoorwill*

Sunningdale

Bedford G&T

Mt. Kisco

GlenArbor*

Sleepy Hollow*

Apawamis*

Scarsdale*

 

'B' Clubs

St. Andrews*

Ardsley*

Brae Burn

Old Oaks

Metropolis

Bonnie Briar

 

'C' Clubs

Hampshire*

Somers National

Leewood*

Trump National Westchester

The Summit Club*

Westchester Hills*

Knollwood*

 

Municpally-owned Private Clubs

Rye*

Harrison Meadows*

Lake Isle*

Pleasantville

 

Clubs that don't fit in these categories

Blind Brook

Hudson National

Golf Club of Purchase

 

Clubs I don't have any real knowledge of

Waccabuc

Salem

Anglebrook

Pequenhaconck

 

--

 

I think that covers pretty much every private club in Westchester Country. Obviously, this is my opinion, so if you think I miscategorized your club, please tell me why I'm wrong. An asterisk means I've been there at least once (two asterisks means I've played both courses). I'm hoping to play every course in Westchester County before I turn 50, and I've got 7 1/2 years to go. 

 

Edited June 15, 2022 by SLUGCC2002

[jin91]

18 hours ago, SLUGCC2002 said:

'A' Clubs

Winged Foot**

Westchester** 

Quaker Ridge

Fenway*

Century*

Wykagyl* 

Siwanoy

Whippoorwill*

Sunningdale

Bedford G&T

Mt. Kisco

GlenArbor*

Sleepy Hollow*

Apawamis*

Scarsdale*

 

'B' Clubs

St. Andrews*

Ardsley*

Brae Burn

Old Oaks

Metropolis

Bonnie Briar

 

'C' Clubs

Hampshire*

Somers National

Leewood*

Trump National Westchester

The Summit Club*

Westchester Hills*

Knollwood*

 

Municpally-owned Private Clubs

Rye*

Harrison Meadows*

Lake Isle*

Pleasantville

 

Clubs that don't fit in these categories

Blind Brook

Hudson National

Golf Club of Purchase

 

Clubs I don't have any real knowledge of

Waccabuc

Salem

Anglebrook

Pequenhaconck

 

--

 

I think that covers pretty much every private club in Westchester Country. Obviously, this is my opinion, so if you think I miscategorized your club, please tell me why I'm wrong. An asterisk means I've been there at least once (two asterisks means I've played both courses). I'm hoping to play every course in Westchester County before I turn 50, and I've got 7 1/2 years to go. 

 

Thanks for sharing! Didn't know there were these many clubs in westchester county! Curious to know what makes a club 'A'/'B'/'C' ? Is it based on course condition? sad to see my club in 'C' 😞

[31ejm]

Curious to hear what you consider when thinking of a/b/c. Of course it is subjective, but are you basing this on architecture, conditioning, staff, food, all of the above?

 

I haven’t played nearly as many and am a member of a “b” club listed. This is truly out of curiosity, I have taken no offense!

 

Also I noticed that pelham country club is not there. Any reason?

[SLUGCC2002]

1 hour ago, 31ejm said:

Curious to hear what you consider when thinking of a/b/c. Of course it is subjective, but are you basing this on architecture, conditioning, staff, food, all of the above?

 

I haven’t played nearly as many and am a member of a “b” club listed. This is truly out of curiosity, I have taken no offense!

 

Also I noticed that pelham country club is not there. Any reason?

 

Oops, left out Pelham! I've never been there, but I'd put Pelham in the 'B' range.

 

Course architecture, facilities/amenities, staff, food, history, and overall experience play a large part in my calculus, as does difficulty of gaining membership. Places that have been openly (or even somewhat quietly) campaigning for new members for reasons other than diversity are generally not 'A' clubs, unless they are truly outstanding in the other categories.

 

Of the 'B' clubs I listed, all but Bonnie Briar are, in my opinion, closer to 'A' than 'C.' None of the 'C' clubs are anywhere near 'B' club status.

 

Of the muni clubs, Rye is on the 'B'/'C' line. (I'm a former member there.) I haven't been to Harrison Meadows since it was Willow Ridge. Lake Isle is a muni, plain and simple.

Edited June 16, 2022 by SLUGCC2002

[mmfreyre123]

Your List has been very helpful!!!

 

where would you rate montclair GC, Upper montclair and Essex county CC?

[TerraNova_2]

23 hours ago, SLUGCC2002 said:

'A' Clubs

Winged Foot**

Westchester** 

Quaker Ridge

Fenway*

Century*

Wykagyl* 

Siwanoy

Whippoorwill*

Sunningdale

Bedford G&T

Mt. Kisco

GlenArbor*

Sleepy Hollow*

Apawamis*

Scarsdale*

 

'B' Clubs

St. Andrews*

Ardsley*

Brae Burn

Old Oaks

Metropolis

Bonnie Briar

 

'C' Clubs

Hampshire*

Somers National

Leewood*

Trump National Westchester

The Summit Club*

Westchester Hills*

Knollwood*

 

Municpally-owned Private Clubs

Rye*

Harrison Meadows*

Lake Isle*

Pleasantville

 

Clubs that don't fit in these categories

Blind Brook

Hudson National

Golf Club of Purchase

 

Clubs I don't have any real knowledge of

Waccabuc

Salem

Anglebrook

Pequenhaconck

 

--

 

I think that covers pretty much every private club in Westchester Country. Obviously, this is my opinion, so if you think I miscategorized your club, please tell me why I'm wrong. An asterisk means I've been there at least once (two asterisks means I've played both courses). I'm hoping to play every course in Westchester County before I turn 50, and I've got 7 1/2 years to go. 

 

This is awesome, thank you!!

Edited June 16, 2022 by TerraNova_2
Typo

[mmfreyre123]

Or better yet, could you make a whole list on the NJ side?

[SLUGCC2002]

12 minutes ago, mmfreyre123 said:

Or better yet, could you make a whole list on the NJ side?

 

Well, I'd love to, but despite growing up in New Jersey, my golf experience there is relatively limited. I grew up playing the Mercer County public courses and caddying at the soon-to-be-plowed-under Olde York CC. As a journalist and someone who works in the golf industry, I've covered a few things and played a few places in Northern New Jersey, but I don't have anywhere near the knowledge of North Jersey's courses to prepare a list like I can for Westchester County. I haven't been to Montclair, Upper Montclair, or Essex County.