Golf in the State of New Jersey
Densely populated New Jersey, nicknamed “the Garden State”, is located in the mid-atlantic region of the northeastern United States, centered between Philadelphia and New York City and close to the metropolitan hubs of Washington, Baltimore and a little farther away, Boston. Due to New Jersey's proximity to New York City and Philadelphia, many of the state's 276 golf courses are considered courses affiliated with those cities. With the exception of 18 courses near Morristown, 12 near Ocean City and 6 at Somerset, the remainder of the state’s courses are spread amongst many smaller communities, with no one area having a monopoly to call its own.
The 18-hole private Pine Valley Golf Club, Pine Valley, has been ranked #1 in the world for many years running. Berkshire Valley Golf Course, Oak Ridge, an 18-hole public course, is a highly rated Golfer’s Choice, boasting a “rewarding golfing experience”. Eagle Ridge Golf Club, Lakewood Township, is a spectacular 27-hole championship golf course approximately equidistant from New York and Philadelphia. Wide fairways and large greens are features of Ballamor Golf Club, Egg Harbor Township. Pinch Brook Golf Course, Florham Park, is a “must play” designed by the Rees Jones Inc. company. Heron Glen Golf Course, Ringoes is described as one of New Jersey's finest public golf facilities and can accommodate all skill levels.
Pros with New Jersey roots include Jim McGovern who was born in Teaneck, New Jersey, and grew up in a house near the Hackensack Golf Club, Emerson. He was a star football player in high school but chose golf instead in his junior year and still competes in the occasional senior events. Ann Probert from West Orange, scored an amazing 16 holes-in-one during her career and at one time was President of the USGA. Todd Demsey, born in Ridgewood was once the college roommate of Phil Mickelson. Brian Gaffney, born in Summit, was once head golf pro at Quaker Ridge Golf Club in Scarsdale, New York and is now the head golf pro at Essex Fells Country Club in Essex Fells.