History

Kingsthorpe Golf Club
The Club was founded by in 1908 by a group of employees from the "Union Bank" now part of the "Natwest Bank" in the Drapery, Northampton. This was the result of personal friend of the then manager being refused membership of another local golf club apparently on account of his being considered to be in TRADE. This epitomises the spirit of this club to this day.

A 9 hole course was built off the Harborough Road in Kingsthorpe to the North of the Town.

In 1912 land was acquired in the area then known as Gypsy Lane. In 1914 the first 18-hole course was opened on the present sight (then on the outskirts of the town), having been "laid out" by one of the best know architects of his day, a Mr Charles H Alison who was Secretary at Stoke Poges GC, an Associate of the more famous Harry Colt who had built the earlier course. Colt is believed to have modified the layout in the 20's. Kingsthorpe is recognised as a Colt Course by the Colt Association along with much more famous courses such as Wentworth, Pebble Beach, Augusta National, Troon, Royal St.Georges, The Berkshire and many many more.

Charles Alison went to design courses in America and Kawana GC in Ito City, as well as revising several other courses in Japan around 1936. His characteristic bump for which he is well known in Japan are also in evidence at Kingsthorpe. A press report at the time suggests of Kingsthorpe that "Its sandy soil, pronounced by experts to be admirably suited for golf, and the contour of the land will lend itself to making a really sporting course". This is certainly born out by the course today which provides a suitable challenge for golfers of all levels.

The club engaged the service of the second professional at the Northants County Club Ernest Hanton who served from 1914-52 certainly a record at the time. He won the German Open during his time at Kingsthorpe.

The club contains players of a wide social range and variety of abilities, and is extremely competitive in the spirit of a true members club. Kingsthorpe has won the Hollingsworth Trophy that is considered the main team event in the county, more often than any other club, and have appeared in the last four finals. In 1995 the double was achieved winning both the Hollingsworth and the County Scratch league

COURSE RECORDS

The amateur course record of 63 has stood since 1985 and is held by club member, Steve McDonald.
The professional record of 64 was set one year later by Bob Larratt - a record equalled in May 2008 by resident Club Professional Paul Armstrong. Rosseanne Youngman set a new Ladies Record of 66 in the Northamptonshire Ladies County Championship,also in May 2008.

Professional Carl Sainsbury recorded a round of 62 in 2005 in a Pro-Am played under winter rules.

For more information about the design company associated with Kingsthorpe, click the link below.

Colt Association