Golf and Jersey City have rarely been linked in the same sentence – until recently. For the first time in its short history, Jersey City’s Liberty National Golf Club hosted a PGA Tour event in 2009: The Barclays. From their homes in Jersey City, residents had the chance to get close to world-class professional golfers.
While Liberty National’s membership dues are well beyond the budget of the average golfer – or average executive for that matter – Jersey City and its jewel of a golf course shined before a national television audience in August. Heath Slocum won the event, besting renowned champions like Tiger Woods, Padraig Harrington and Ernie Els.
The Barclays had been a part of the PGA schedule since 1967, but moved to Liberty National for the first time this year. Though the tournament will move to New Jersey’s Ridgewood Country Club in 2010, it is possible that Liberty National will again be placed in the tournament’s rotation down the road.
homes in Jersey City provided easy access to the four-day tournament as spectators had the option of either traveling by car, train or ferry to the event. The golf course itself, which opened in 2006, proved to be challenging and breathtaking at the same time. Featuring spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, Liberty National certainly impressed.
The golf club has also gained recognition for its various member amenities, including complimentary high-speed boat service from several points in Manhattan and a helipad located on club property. Designed by 1992 U.S. Open Champion Tom Kite and Bob Cupp, Liberty National has quickly gained a national reputation.
Liberty National is clearly not an ordinary golfing experience.
The Barclays, however, did more than leave New Jersey golfers fighting bouts of jealousy. The tournament raised more than $110,000 for local non-profit charities. A total of 114 non-profits participated in the TICKETS fore CHARITY program, including 35 based in Jersey City (www.thebarclaysgolf.com).
Whether they are apartments, condominiums or single-family structures, homes in Jersey City have always been valued for their access to New York City. But no longer must you trek across the Hudson River to find superb dining, cultural and entertainment opportunities.
Though it remains in the shadow of the world’s greatest city, Jersey City continues to establish itself as a unique destination. And now Jersey City boasts a golf course that rivals the world’s best.
