Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club Offers Championship Experience
A Premier Collegiate Course in Oklahoma
Nestled on the grounds of the University of Oklahoma in Norman, the Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club stands as a testament to golfing excellence. This championship-caliber course, originally built on a former U.S. Navy recreational facility, has risen to become the 6th-ranked collegiate golf course in the country according to Golfweek's 2023 rankings.
Designed by renowned architects Perry Maxwell and Tripp Davis, the Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club offers golfers a challenging 18-hole layout spanning 7,452 yards from the championship tees. The course serves as home to the University of Oklahoma golf team and has hosted numerous prestigious events, including NCAA Regional tournaments.
The club's recent selection as a host for the Korn Ferry Tour further cements its status among elite golfing venues. With its rich history, top-tier facilities, and commitment to excellence, the Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club continues to attract golf enthusiasts and competitive players alike.
History and Background
The Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club's rich history spans from its origins as a naval facility to its transformation into a premier golf destination. Its development was shaped by influential golf course architects and a commitment to preserving its heritage.
The Legacy of Jimmie Austin
Jimmie Austin played a crucial role in the club's development. As a prominent figure in Oklahoma's golfing community, Austin's vision and dedication helped shape the course into what it is today. His son, Paul D. Austin, served as an OU Regent from 2000 to 2007 and was a founding member of the OU Men's Golf Chip In Club.
Jimmie Lynn Austin, another family member, has been instrumental in the club's ongoing success. For over two decades, he has chaired the Golf Coordinating Committee, ensuring the club's continued growth and excellence.
Transformation from Navy Air Technical Training Center to Premier Golf Course
The land now occupied by the Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club has a fascinating past. In the early 1940s, it was home to the U.S. Navy Air Technical Training Center, also known as "South Base." This facility served as an annex to the Norman Naval Air Station.
After World War II, the property transitioned to civilian use. In 1951, the University of Oklahoma acquired the land and established the golf course. This transformation marked the beginning of a new era for the property, shifting from military training grounds to a recreational haven for golf enthusiasts.
Influence of Perry Maxwell and Tripp Davis
Two renowned golf course architects have left their mark on the Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club. Perry Maxwell, a legendary designer known for his naturalistic approach, played a role in the course's initial layout. His influence can be seen in the course's integration with the surrounding landscape.
In more recent years, Tripp Davis, an ASGCA member, led a significant renovation of the course. Davis's work focused on enhancing the playing experience while respecting the course's historical elements. His redesign has elevated the course's status, making it a challenging and enjoyable venue for golfers of all skill levels.
Course Architecture
The Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club's course architecture reflects a blend of classic design and modern enhancements. Three renowned architects have shaped its evolution, each leaving their distinctive mark on the layout.
Perry Maxwell's Original Design
Perry Maxwell, an Oklahoma native, crafted the original OU Golf Course in the early 1950s. His design incorporated the natural contours of the land, creating a layout that harmonized with the existing terrain. Maxwell's signature features included strategically placed bunkers and subtly contoured greens. He utilized the rolling hills and native grasses to add character and challenge to the course.
Maxwell's approach emphasized shot values and strategic play, rewarding well-placed shots while punishing errant ones. His design philosophy focused on creating holes that could be played in multiple ways, allowing for different strategies based on a golfer's skill level.
Tripp Davis's Renovation and Enhancements
Tripp Davis, a member of OU's 1989 National Championship Golf Team, led a major renovation of the course in 2017. Davis's work aimed to modernize the layout while preserving Maxwell's original vision. He focused on improving the course's playability and sustainability.
Key enhancements included:
Redesigning and rebuilding all 18 greens
Updating the bunkering system
Improving drainage and irrigation
Introducing new tee boxes to accommodate various skill levels
Davis also incorporated more native grasses and bur oaks into the landscape, enhancing the course's aesthetic appeal and ecological value.
Robert Cupp's Technological Contributions
Robert Cupp, a world-renowned golf course architect, brought technological innovation to the Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club during his redesign in the 1990s. Cupp's approach blended traditional design principles with modern technology to enhance the course's playability and maintenance.
His contributions included:
Implementing computer-aided design for precise shaping of fairways and greens
Introducing advanced irrigation systems for improved turf management
Redesigning holes to accommodate modern playing equipment
Cupp's work respected Maxwell's original routing while updating the course to meet the demands of contemporary golf.
Golf Experience
The Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club offers a championship-level golfing experience with diverse tee options, scenic beauty, and comprehensive practice facilities. Golfers of all skill levels can enjoy the course's unique character and challenging layout.
Course Character and Scenery
The Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club boasts a picturesque setting that combines natural beauty with strategic design. Rolling terrain and mature trees frame the fairways, creating a serene atmosphere for players. Water features come into play on several holes, adding both visual appeal and challenge to the course.
The layout takes advantage of the Oklahoma landscape, incorporating native grasses and wildlife habitats. Each hole presents a unique character, with well-placed bunkers and undulating greens that demand thoughtful shot-making.
Peaceful beauty surrounds golfers throughout their round, with panoramic views of the surrounding area enhancing the overall experience.
Tee Options and Course Rating
Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club caters to players of all abilities with its flexible tee system. Five sets of tees, including Team Tees and Family Tees, allow golfers to select the appropriate challenge for their skill level.
The course offers Combo Tee options, providing even more flexibility in course setup. This variety ensures that both collegiate athletes and casual players can enjoy a fair and engaging round.
Course ratings vary depending on the selected tees, with the championship tees presenting a stern test for low-handicap golfers. The multiple tee options make the course accessible and enjoyable for players of diverse skill levels.
Amenities and Practice Facilities
The club features comprehensive practice facilities to help golfers hone their skills. A spacious driving range allows players to warm up and work on their full swing before their round.
Short game areas include putting greens and chipping zones, enabling golfers to fine-tune their touch around the greens. These practice facilities are well-maintained and reflect the quality of the main course.
The clubhouse offers a pro shop stocked with equipment and apparel. Locker rooms and dining options provide comfort and convenience for members and guests. Golf carts equipped with GPS systems are available, enhancing the playing experience with accurate yardage information and course management tools.
Championship and Legacy
Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club has cemented its place in collegiate golf history. The course has hosted prestigious tournaments and serves as the home base for the University of Oklahoma's championship-winning golf program.
Host of National Championships
The Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club has welcomed numerous high-profile golf events. In 1997, it hosted the Oklahoma State Amateur tournament, showcasing the course's championship-caliber design. The club has also been selected to host multiple NCAA Regional tournaments, further solidifying its elite status.
In 2023, Golfweek magazine ranked Jimmie Austin as the 6th best collegiate golf course in the United States. This recognition reflects the club's commitment to maintaining a top-tier facility. Recently, the course added another feather to its cap by hosting a Korn Ferry Tour event, attracting professional golfers and golf enthusiasts from around the country.
Home to OU's National Championship Golf Team
The University of Oklahoma's golf program has achieved remarkable success, with Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club serving as its home course. In 1989, the OU Men's Golf Team clinched the National Championship, a significant milestone in the program's history.
Tripp Davis, a member of that championship-winning team, later contributed to the club's legacy as a golf course architect. In 2017, Davis collaborated on major renovations to the course, infrastructure, and facilities. This project enhanced the playing experience and ensured the club's continued relevance in competitive golf.
The course's challenging layout and excellent facilities have played a crucial role in developing top-tier collegiate golfers. OU's golf teams continue to train and compete at Jimmie Austin, carrying forward the tradition of championship golf at the university.
Visitor Information
Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club offers a welcoming environment for golfers of all skill levels. The club provides essential information and services to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for visitors.
Location and Accessibility
Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club is situated in Norman, Oklahoma, on the grounds of a major university. The club is easily accessible from nearby highways and the University of Oklahoma campus. Ample parking is available for guests. The clubhouse features clear signage and maps to help visitors navigate the facilities. Golf carts are readily available for those who prefer not to walk the course.
Booking and Golf Packages
Reserving tee times at Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club is straightforward. Visitors can book online through the club's website or by phone. The club offers various golf packages to suit different preferences and budgets. These may include options for multiple rounds, group rates, or seasonal specials. Rental clubs are available for those traveling without equipment. The pro shop staff can assist with selecting the most appropriate package based on skill level and group size.
