Golf History at Indian Wells Country Club

The Birthplace of Legends; Home of the Bob Hope Classic for Over 40 Years

Indian Wells Country Club has a long-standing reputation for its pristine courses, professional-grade play, and celebrated members. Since its founding in 1956, the club has been represented by PGA Tour players like Forrest Fezler, George Cadle, and John Wilson, who holds the course record with an impressive 57. Notably, club member George Archer, one of the PGA Tour’s best putters, competed alongside icons like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, becoming a legend himself on the PGA Tour Champions circuit.

A Legacy of Champion Women

In the early days of the LPGA, Indian Wells was fortunate to be associated with trailblazers like Shirley Spork, who joined the club as a teaching professional in the 1970s. Spork was instrumental in establishing the LPGA Teaching Division in 1959, paving the way for future generations of women in golf instruction.

The Classic Course & the Bob Hope Desert Classic

Where Celebrities & Pros Gathered for Legendary Moments

The Classic Course, built in 1956, quickly became the home of the renowned Bob Hope Desert Classic. This tournament was marked by tradition, with celebrity queens like Debbie Reynolds and Linda Carter and memorable "jam sessions" featuring entertainment by stars like Andy Williams and Johnny Bench. The course itself was the site of unforgettable golf history—Don January’s $50,000 hole-in-one on the 15th in 1961, and Arnold Palmer’s 11th career hole-in-one in 1980. Arnold Palmer became the first inductee into the Indian Wells Classic Hall of Fame and a lifelong member of the club.

Presidential Moments & Memorable Tournaments

In 1995, the Bob Hope Desert Classic saw an unprecedented start with Presidents Clinton, Ford, and Bush alongside Bob Hope. Preparations for the event included rigorous security measures, underscoring the club’s role in hosting significant historical events.

An Unforgettable Desert Golf Experience

Indian Wells Country Club has become a cherished destination for golf enthusiasts from around the world. From iconic professional players to golf-loving members, our courses offer a unique experience steeped in history and prestige.