Stanford University Golf Course: Championship Pedigree

Set in the foothills above Stanford’s campus, Stanford University Golf Course is widely regarded as one of the finest collegiate golf venues in the world. Opened in 1930, the course was originally designed by George C. Thomas and Billy Bell Jr., architects whose work helped define strategic golf design across California.

A renovation by John Harbottle in 2008, followed by a full bunker rebuild and select hole modifications in 2018, ensured the course remains a modern championship test while preserving its classic routing and architectural intent.

Playing to a par of 70 at 6,727 yards, the course demands precision and thoughtful shot selection. San Francisquito Creek comes into play on nearly half the holes, while firm fairways, subtly contoured greens, and elevation changes reward players who control trajectory and distance.

From the elevated 18th tee, competitors are treated to sweeping views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and, on clear days, a distant glimpse of San Francisco—a fitting setting for a championship finish.

A Venue Built for Elite Competition

Stanford Golf Course’s championship résumé is unmatched among university-owned facilities. It has hosted men’s and women’s NCAA Championships, NCAA Regionals, Pac-12 Championships, U.S. Open Qualifying, and USGA Junior Amateur Qualifying, along with The Gathering, a former PGA Senior Tour event.

The course is also home to Stanford’s nationally ranked men’s and women’s golf programs and annually hosts The Goodwin, one of the most respected collegiate tournaments in the country.

Its place in the game’s history is further defined by the legends who honed their skills here, including Tiger Woods, Tom Watson, and Mickey Wright, as well as several former USGA presidents.

AmateurGolf.com’s Commitment to Championship Golf

The Silicon Valley Amateur is a cornerstone of AmateurGolf.com’s championship portfolio. It reflects the organization’s long-standing commitment to providing serious amateurs with professionally run events, elite venues, and pathways to meaningful competitive recognition.

The long-term partnership with Stanford ensures continuity, prestige, and consistency—allowing the championship to grow while maintaining the standards that have made it a destination event for top players across the country and beyond.

A 54-Point WAGR Event with Meaningful Rewards

The tournament’s elevation to a 54-point World Amateur Golf Ranking event places it firmly on the international radar. For elite amateurs, WAGR points are currency—impacting invitations, exemptions, and selection opportunities across the global amateur landscape.

In addition to ranking points, the championship winner earns an exemption into the San Francisco City Championship, one of the most competitive and historic amateur championships in the United States. The exemption strengthens the tournament’s connection to Northern California’s rich golf tradition and adds a tangible competitive incentive.

Championship Format & Divisions

The 2025 Silicon Valley Amateur will be contested over 54 holes across two days, delivering a true endurance test that rewards consistency and mental toughness.

• Championship Division – Age 16+, Handicap Index < 5.5
• Senior Championship – Age 50+, Handicap Index < 8.0 (55+ for NCGA Senior Points)
• Mid-Am – Age 25–49 (subdivision of Championship Division)
• Super Senior – Age 65+ (subdivision of Senior Championship)
• Women – Subdivision of Championship Division, competing from adjusted tees

A Rare Opportunity

Access to Stanford University Golf Course is typically limited to students, faculty, alumni, members, and their guests. Competitive opportunities at the venue are rare—making the Silicon Valley Amateur a unique chance to test one’s game on a course with nearly a century of championship history.

With a proven championship pedigree, a world-class venue, global ranking implications, and a meaningful local exemption on the line, the AmateurGolf.com Silicon Valley Amateur at Stanford represents one of the most compelling events on the amateur calendar.

For players seeking a true championship test, this is an event that matters.