Golf Course Types

Question
What is the differance between a regulation and a Championship golf coures?

Answer
Tom,

It's a distinction without a difference.  A course that calls itself a "Championship" course is trying to appear to be a top quality golf course.  In other words, "Championship Course" sounds better than "Regulation Course".

I'm sure that courses that have actually held major championships such as the U.S. Open or PGA Championship could call their course a Championship Course.  But many other courses use the term and they have never held a tournament larger than a club championship.  So anyone can use the term.  There is no official authority that designates one golf course as a regulation course and another as a championship course.  If the course is above an "executive" length course, either term could be used (regulation or championship).  The USGA defines executive courses and regulation courses but makes no mention of championship courses.

I hope I've been helpful to you.

Sincerely,

Paul Dolman
PGA Golf Professional