Discover the
Timeless Charm
of Hickory Golf
Stop chasing the latest-greatest $900 Driver. Discover the game the way it was supposed to be played... FOR FUN!
Upcoming Events & Tournaments
Ottawa Hickory Golf Challenge
Sign up early!
Join us on Friday, June 6, 2025
An Ireland Trip with the Hickory Golfer in Mind
May 2025
Tournaments
Want to be challenged, and have fun?
We've got some great tournaments for you to enter!
Hickory Golf Club Rentals
Are you planning a golf event in Canada and would like to use authentic hickory shafted golf clubs?
Reach out to Chris Hawes, at [email protected].
About the Hickory Golf Challenge
The Hickory Golf Challenge brings the spirit of golf's golden era to life. Played with authentic hickory-shafted clubs, this event honors the sport's rich history and timeless traditions. Hickory golf is all about finesse, creativity, and strategy, rewarding skill over power and encouraging a more thoughtful, connected approach to the game.
By stepping back to a simpler time in golf's history, players enjoy a unique challenge that emphasizes camaraderie and the artistry of the sport. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a curious beginner, the Hickory Golf Challenge offers a nostalgic, refreshing, and truly memorable way to experience the game.
Hickory Golf Challenge is your destination for all things Hickory Golf
Explore our selection of pre-1935 hickory shafted golf clubs, as well as modern replicas. Attend our exciting Hickory Golf events, and discover unique golf travel opportunities. Shop our collection of Hickory Golf inspired clothing and equipment to complete your vintage golfing experience.
A Game Steeped
in History
The Origins of Golf
Hickory Golf captures the charm of a game with roots dating back to the 1300s. Early forms of golf are depicted in Dutch artwork, showing players in churchyards, fields, and even on ice. The game likely reached Scotland through soldiers and sailors, gaining popularity along the eastern coast from Dunbar to St. Andrews, where courses naturally evolved with paths grazed by animals defining early "fairways."
Evolution of Equipment
and Style
By the 1830s in Scotland, hickory shafts became popular for their durability and flexibility. Golf balls evolved from the wooden "featherie" stuffed with feathers, to the more advanced "gutty" ball, marking key innovations in the sport. Clubs were uniquely crafted by artisans using woods like beech and apple, each club varying in loft and length.
Reliving Golf’s Heritage
Hickory Golf invites players today to experience golf as it was originally played, blending history and craftsmanship. This unique and nostalgic approach celebrates the game’s roots and timeless appeal.
General Store
Clubs, Clothing and Hickory Golf accessories and gifts etc.
Organizing your own Hickory Golf event?
Helpful things to know:
FAQS
I'm thinking about holding a hickory golf event...how can you help me?
We can provide genuine antique clubs dated between 1890 and 1929 (all restored for play) or modern, exact replica playing sets.
Right and left-handed sets available.
What constitutes a set?
During the Hickory era a typical full set consisted of 6 clubs. This is what each player will be provided with:
Driver or Brassie = Fairway wood
Mid-Iron = 5 iron
Mashie = 7 iron
Mashie-Niblick = 9 iron
Niblick = Gap/Sand Iron
Putter = Putter
The clubs come in a slim leather carry bag. Players just need to provide their own balls and tees.
You will be pleasantly surprised that this is all you need when compared to modern sets.
Do you provide bags?
Yes, each set is provided in a slim carry bag.
How much does a bag of clubs weigh?
The clubs together with the leather bag weighs about 3.5 kg (approximately 9 pounds). Occasionally, players choose to decant in their own bags and use push carts. Conversely, they can be strapped to power carts.
What do participants have to provide?
Participants need to provide their own tees and balls. A softer ball, such as a Callaway Super Soft, or a Soft Noodle works best.
What about breakages?
Breaks do occasionally happen, but the clubs are surprisingly strong... after all, they've lasted over one-hundred years!
During a large event we expect a club might break. It's something that happens, and we assume the risk. We simply request the player(s) involved to bring back the parts.
Are they difficult to use?
The simple truth is good golfers can play well with them, and bad golfers can play bad with them. Often people will say something like, "I slowed my swing down a bit and this went surprisingly well".
Other statements overheard include:
"I learned to play with a set just like these."
"My father had a set of these."
"My grandfather had a set of these."
"I loved the putter... can I buy it?" (Yes, reach out to us!)
"I think I prefer my Callaways... a bit wider sole."
"I'm surprised... once I got the hang of them it really went well."
"I NEED a set of these!"
Do you provide vintage style clothes?
We do not. Most players use their imagination, and half the fun at events is seeing what other players are dressed in. A Hickory Golf event is filled with lots of laughter! *Plus 4s,(knickers) other Hickory era Apparel can be purchased through our online store.
How much do you charge?
Location and number of players will determine package prices. Day packages start at $2,500.
Drop us a line!
Want us to visit your course? Would you like to host a Demonstration Day?
Have a question about hosting an event? Send us a message, and we'll get back to you soon.
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