Hackler Course

107 Citadel Drive , Conway, SC 29526

$

If you want to feel better about the future of golf, play a round at the Hackler Course at Coastal Carolina University. The course is largely staffed by students in Coastal Carolina’s Professional Golf Management program and they do an outstanding job from the bag drop through the 18th hole.

Formerly called Quail Creek, the university renamed the course in honor of General James Hackler and dedicated resources to a layout that delivers a quality round of golf for students, locals and vacationers. Architect Craig Schreiner led a project that included the installation of new MiniVerde Ultradwarf Bermudagrass greens, a renovation of the course’s bunkers, and the building of a short-game practice area, among other upgrades.

The results of Schreiner’s work have delighted golfers. The course has been in outstanding condition and it features four sets of tees ranging from 5,270 yards to 6,886 yards, providing options for players of all skill levels.

Schreiner also oversaw the removal of more than 50 bunkers, enhancing the Hackler’s playability without rendering the course defenseless.

The course was designed by Gene Hamm and its original routing remains intact, challenging players to hit tree-lined fairways throughout much of the round.

Hackler’s closing hole is also its most memorable. The 340-yard (white tees) 18th isn’t long but it demands precision and nerve. Your tee shot needs to favor the right-center of the fairway, lest you run the risk of having your approach impeded by a large tree that stands on the edge of the water.

That water runs to the edge of the green, making the approach one of the day’s most daunting. The final par 4 has decided more than one match, and it’s a great way to finish.

With a convenient location on Highway 501, the Hackler Course is an ideal layout to play on day of arrival or departure, making things easier for golfers.