Detailed description of Makray Memorial Golf Club
Makray Memorial Golf Club, originally named Thunderbird Country Club is a Semi-Private 18 hole golf course located in Barrington, Illinois.
The course first opened in 1958. The course was completely redesigned and reopened for play Memorial Day, 2004. This 160-acre layout was lengthened over 1,000 yards from it's original configuration, and over 2 million yards of dirt were moved during reconstruction. All exisitng fairways, tees and greens were completely redesigned, and several new water hazards were added. A new clubhouse facility was also constructed. The par-71course now plays from 5,171 to 6,903 yards, and there are four sets of tees to accommodate all skill levels. The new design was the work of Harry Vignocchi.
The longest hole on the course is # 15, a par-5 that plays to 562 yards. The shortest hole on the course is # 13, a par-4 that plays to 175 yards from the back tees.
Watch out for # 1, a 425 yard par-4 challenge and the #1 handicap hole on the course. The easiest hole at Makray Memorial is # 17, a 244 yard par-3.
$66 (cart included), played on Friday, August 2013 at 2pm
Good Layout but greens are way too sloped for their speed. A good short game is useless on this course. The par threes are so difficult that on #4 you can hit on the green and it always goes in the water. If you miss it left you have a hard time keeping a chip on the green. At least 9 greens are way too severe. The golf staff are the most miserable bunch we ever have to deal with. The best part of this course is the clubhouse and bar/restaurant. Dont waste your money playing here.
$66 (cart included), played on Wednesday, June 2013 at noon
My only complaint is in the firmness of the greens. They roll pretty well, but are too hard to hold almost any approach shot more than a sand wedge. Players should not be penalized for hitting a good shot, and the green firmness does just that. Happened both times I played there this year.
$66 (cart included), played on Monday, July 2012 at 8am
Varied layout; interesting topography for area. Staff accommodating.
Latest Golf Course Reviews
-
1
by Brian Clark 2023-10-08
-
2
by Brian Clark 2023-10-08
-
3
by Brian Clark 2023-10-08
-
4
by soundhar G 2023-10-07
-
5
by Brian Clark 2023-10-05
-
6
by Brian Clark 2023-10-05
Newsletter
Off the Fringe, “Golf’s best short read.” The award winning newsletter, sent twice monthly, that provides an unconventional perspective on the golf world.
$31 (cart included), played on Thursday, May 2016 at 2:00 PM
Great course A couple of gimmicky or tricky holes but overall a good test and difficult track