Golf is a major part of Hyannisport Village. The private Hyannisport Club is an 18 hole golf course located just steps away from Seal Rock. The course is an original Donald Ross design which plays 6257 yards from the blue tee markers. While the course is short in terms of yardage it is often called “the toughest 6200 yards in golf” because of the famous Hyannisport wind which blows in from Nantucket Sound. The course, also located adjacent to the Kennedy Compound where the Kennedy family have long been members. The club has some of the most scenic views on Cape Cod and is known for having water visible on every hole. Founded in 1897, the golf course was finalized in 1903. The now Head professional, Rick Johnson is highly respected throughout Massachusetts and New England. ”The Seagulls” golf tournament is hosted here in late March or early April each year. This tournament is one that is open to all Cape Cod residents and has been played in all types of weather from freezing rain and snow to 90 degree heat. The Hyannisport Club is also known for its prestigious Caddy program available in July and August.
Many weddings and events have taken place at the Hyannisport Golf Club over the years, most notable guests and members being the Kennedy Family. President Kennedy was an avid golfer and played the prestigious golf club during his summers on Cape Cod. In an article in SIVault, Rob Duca states that, ‘Kennedy arrived at the Hyannisport Club that summer day [in 1963] years ago wearing a dark blue golf shirt that hung loosely over rose-colored pants. The nation’s 35th president would often walk to the club from his family’s compound—only a par-5 away. He never ventured into the members’ clubhouse but instead changed into his golf attire in the modest bag room, sitting on a wooden stool with a telephone at his side that linked directly to the White House.” It was even said he had a slow motion movie made at the Club of his swing and planned to show it to Pro Golfer Arnold Palmer in hopes that the pro could help him improve his swing.
Hyannisport continues to host events and even opens to the public during the year. Some of which are The Seagulls Four Ball and Cape Cod Amateur Golf Championship. To see the Hyannisport Golf Club Scorecard; click here.
