Black Horse Golf Course

The sensational new era at Black Horse is certain to provide both challenges and inspiration to golfers for generations to come. The golf course has been re-sculpted by award-winning golf course architect Gene Bates, Showcasing Bates’ elegant bunkering and graceful greens, the new Black Horse offers expanded views of the bay. Distinctively different than its previous design, Black Horse has been transformed from a series of tightly tree-lined holes to a more open, flowing and comfortable environment. Moreover, the strategic and visual impact is nonetheless developing into the ideal complement to Bayonet.

The new Black Horse is comprised of new tees, fairways, greens, and bunkering on each hole. Par remains 72 consisting of ten par 4s, four par 3s and four par 5s. It follows much of the original route, but takes several new directions, mostly notably are the 14th (par 4) and 15th (par 3). No. 14 - Previously the "15 hole" which was called “Cardiac Hill” for its 100-foot climb up to the green – now is far less severe. Pointed east and still uphill, the hole has changed from a slight dog-leg right to a more distinct dog-leg left. Fairway bunkers are on the left and right, with the two-tier green featuring a false front.

No. 15 is an entirely new and repositioned par 3, already noted as being one of the signature holes on the property. Facing the bay with a wide view of the water and city as its backdrop, the hole also will play into a prevailing wind. A series of bunkers protect the right side of the green, with collection areas both left and rear. Overall, the fairway modifications, route changes, and addition of Bates’ inspired bunkering combine with the removal of the Kikuyu and poa annua grasses in the fairways and greens to produce a substantial improvement to Black Horse’s playing conditions.

With the Kikuyu and poa annua eradication throughout the course, all of the new turf is Jacklin T1 Bentgrass, a type that is superior in density and performance that will allow not only for better roll, but will harmonize with the state-of-the-industry drainage and irrigation systems installed on all 36 holes at Black Horse and Bayonet.

Like its companion course, Black Horse is steeped in golf and military history. Originally opened in 1964, the golf course was created on the site of the former Fort Ord by General Robert B. McClure, who christened it in honor of the 11th Calvary Regiment (nicknamed “Black Horse”) that was then stationed nearby at The Presidio of Monterey. Always stimulating and in spectacular shape, and with Monterey Bay as its inspiring backdrop, the remodeled Black Horse is ready for the new era to begin.