MacKenzie Course at the Haggin Oaks Golf Complex: A historic walk in Sacramento
SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Many golfers who play the Alister MacKenzie Course at the Haggin Oaks Golf Complex probably don't even know who the good doctor is. They're just looking for a round that's playable, affordable and convenient.
Haggin Oaks is all that and more.
Morton Golf, the operator of Sacramento's municipal courses, is the caretaker of this golf mecca, home to a golf super store and 36 holes along the Capital City Expressway. Haggin Oaks has so much history dating to 1932. Sam Snead, Jimmy Demaret, Walter Hagen, Ben Hogan, Gene Sarazen and others competed in the PGA Tour's Sacramento Open in the 1930s. MacKenzie's original routing has been altered over the years although a few MacKenzie characteristics have survived (like the par-3 12th hole) or been restored (like the par-4 eighth hole).
The 7,030-yard classic parkland routing is easily walkable. With just one fairway bunker, thick rough provides the main defense off the tee. A pond on no. 4 and Arcade Creek, flowing in front of the fifth and 14th greens, create interesting approach shots to fast greens.
Many golfers come early or leave late when playing Haggin Oaks. The MacKenzie Bar & Grille -- stocked with memorabilia and historic photos -- provides a hangout that serves good food and drinks. The lighted range stays open 24 hours in summer. It is equipped with the "Power Tee," i.e. machines that tee the ball up automatically. It's the perfect place to test new equipment from the 15,000-square-foot golf super shop, annually recognized as a top-100 golf shop.
Haggin Oaks also offers FootGolf on one of its Arcade Creek nines and last year added the MacKenzie Putting Course for families and children. The Player Performance Studio can fit new clubs with a Trackman launch monitor. A three-hole learning academy can be used for practice or lessons.
Haggin Oaks truly has something for everybody.
- Destination Guide: Plan and book your Sacramento golf with GolfCalifornia.com
- The Bing Maloney Golf Complex remains a local favorite in Sacramento
- A mounded muni: Bartley Cavanaugh Golf Course in Sacramento
