The Solheim Cup is back just a year after the thrilling 14-14 tie in Spain.
This time, the tournament moves to Gainesville, Virginia, avoiding a clash with the Ryder Cup.
Both captains are returning for this rematch at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club.
Solheim Cup Course Location:
Located in Gainesville, Virginia, the course is only 35 miles from Washington D.C., making it easy to reach. Despite its proximity to the capital, the course feels peaceful because it sits next to Lake Manassas. The lake adds beauty and affects how players approach their game.
Design:
Robert Trent Jones Sr., who designed over 450 courses worldwide, called this terrain “aesthetically perfect.” Opened in April 1991, he considered it his masterpiece. The design hugs Lake Manassas, offering stunning views on nearly all of the back nine holes.
Fans might think this location will offer some breathtaking moments during the tournament.
Lake Manassas isn’t just for looks; it plays a crucial role in how challenging the course can be.
Imposing Clubhouse:
The clubhouse here is grand and Georgian-style, looking more like a stately home than a typical golf clubhouse. It sits high above the course and fits perfectly with its presidential theme—Jones even installed a putting green at the White House for President Eisenhower in 1954. During the Solheim Cup, this impressive building will serve as a backdrop for both golf and ceremonies.
Previous Tournaments:
While it’s hosting its first Solheim Cup, Robert Trent Jones Golf Club has seen action before. It hosted four Presidents Cups and became known as a top spot for team golf events in the U.S., thanks to its quality and location near Washington D.C. The club also held the Quicken Loans National PGA Tour event in 2015, won by Troy Merritt.
The Course:
This par-72 course measures 7473 yards from the gold tees. With two par threes and two par fives on each nine holes, water hazards come into play often but especially on holes like the par-three 11th where players hit directly over Lake Manassas. The front nine stays inland while most of the back nine runs along or near the lake’s edge—beautiful but risky for off-target shots.
The first tee shot at this year’s Solheim Cup will be nerve-wracking with that grand clubhouse looming overhead and up to 2,000 fans watching closely from nearby lawns.
What do you think about such an iconic venue hosting this event?
