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Golfing

Finley Golf Club

500 Finley Golf Course Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

Designer: Tom Fazio

https://www.finleygolfclub.com/

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Overview

Finley Golf Club stands as one of North Carolina's premier golf destinations and serves as home to the University of North Carolina's nationally ranked golf programs. UNC Finley Golf Course is one of the top 20 collegiate courses in the country, offering golfers a challenging yet accessible experience in the heart of Chapel Hill.

 

Originally built in 1949, UNC Finley was redesigned by Tom Fazio in the late 80s and shortly after became home to the Tar Heels golf program. The course received another significant update in 2023, when Mark and Davis Love III, along with architect Scot Sherman, revamped the entire course, adding a new practice range and putting course for the UNC golf teams.

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What Was Impressive

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  • Championship Caliber Design: The challenging layout is diverse enough to appeal to players of all skill levels. The course has hosted numerous high-level competitions, including the 2015 NCAA Men's Regional Championships, demonstrating its championship credentials.

  • Exceptional Back Nine: The highlight of UNC Finley Golf Course is its back nine, especially the four spectacular finishing holes which are beautiful and challenging. These closing holes provide a memorable and demanding finish to the round.

  • Well-Maintained Conditions: The club offers a well-conditioned comprehensive facility, reflecting the high standards expected of a university flagship course and tournament venue. The course maintains excellent playing conditions year-round, befitting its status as a collegiate championship venue. The recent 2023 renovation has brought the course to an even higher standard, with improved drainage, updated bunkers, and enhanced green complexes. The fairways are typically in pristine condition, and the greens run true and at appropriate speeds for the level of play.

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What Could Be Improved

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  • Challenging for Higher Handicappers: While the course accommodates all skill levels, this challenging course has no shortage of bunkers or water. Less experienced players may find the layout demanding, particularly with the numerous hazards throughout the course. The Bermuda grass rough forces average players to chop out sideways onto the fairway.

  • Limited Availability: As the home course for UNC's golf teams, tee times can be restricted during team practices and tournaments, requiring advance planning for recreational play.

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Amenities

  • Clubhouse and Dining: The UNC Finley Golf Course offers a complete suite of top-notch amenities, including a state-of-the-art locker room, a restaurant with both a lunch and dinner menu.

  • Outstanding Practice Facilities: UNC Finley Golf Course has excellent practice facilities that include a large driving range, complete short game area, and two large putting greens. The recent renovations have only enhanced these amenities, making it an excellent place to work on all aspects of your game.

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Pro Tip: UNC Finley Golf Club delivers a championship-quality golf experience that justifies its reputation as one of the Southeast's top collegiate courses. While the premium pricing may deter some casual players, serious golfers will appreciate the challenging design, excellent conditions, and outstanding practice facilities. The recent renovations have elevated an already impressive facility to new heights, making it a must-play destination for golf enthusiasts visiting the Chapel Hill area.

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Course Conditions 5 stars
Fun 4 stars
Value 3 stars
Amenities 4 stars

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