Purgatory Golf Club named 2016 Indiana Golf Course of the Year

The National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA) named Purgatory Golf Club, Noblesville, Ind., the 2016 Indiana Golf Course of the Year.

Less than 40 minutes north of Indianapolis, Purgatory bested more than 500 golf courses in the Hoosier state to earn top honors.

Under Billy Casper Golf management since April of 2014, Purgatory is known for the shortest (4,562 yards) and longest (7,754 yards) layout in Indiana. Built on 218 acres, local architect Ron Kern designed each hole and it is maintained by Superintendent James Brown.

According to the company’s press release, the NGCOA praised the family-owned, public club for consistently delivering amazing golf experiences, highly dedicated and impactful management and contributions to more than 100 charities.

“There’s no one more deserving of this award than owners’ Mike and Tenna Merchent and their stellar team,” says Donna Deno, executive director of the Indiana Golf Course Owners Association.  “Every day they treat golfers to their vision of ‘heaven on earth.’ Purgatory Golf Club is a cornerstone to the pantheon of great Indiana courses.”

The NGCOA honor follows Purgatory being named among “America’s Top 50 Courses for Women” and “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses” by Golf Digest.  It has also hosted every major Indiana Golf Association championship, including the 2014 State Amateur and 2013 Women’s State Open.

“It doesn’t take guests very long to feel the love and care that went into to the design of Purgatory Golf Club,” says Brian Rhodes, general manager of Purgatory Golf Club.  “We’re home to a unique, links-style experience unmatched in the Midwest that truly offers something special every time you tee it up.”

Purgatory’s practice facility includes a 7,000 square-foot putting green, 10,000 square-foot chipping area and expansive driving range.  Affectionately named “The Lodge,” the clubhouse includes “The Confessional” bar and a banquet hall that accommodates 225 guests.

Photo courtesy of Tenna Merchent, Purgatory Golf Club