Cog Hill Golf Course

Frequently Asked Questions

Who owns Cog Hill Golf Course?

Cog Hill Golf Course is owned and operated by the Jemsek family. Founded by Joe Jemsek in 1927, the course has remained under the stewardship of the Jemsek family for generations. The family is renowned for their commitment to public golf and making high-quality golfing experiences accessible to everyone. Today, Frank Jemsek and his family continue to oversee the day-to-day operations of Cog Hill, upholding the tradition of excellence that has made it one of the most respected public golf facilities in the United States. Their dedication to course maintenance and customer service ensures that Cog Hill remains a top destination for golfers in the Chicago area and beyond.

What event was played at Cog Hill?

Cog Hill Golf Course has hosted several prestigious golf events, most notably the BMW Championship, which is part of the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup Playoffs. Prior to the BMW Championship, Cog Hill was the longtime home of the Western Open, one of the oldest professional golf tournaments in the United States. The course's Dubsdread (Course #4) has been a favorite among golf professionals and has seen legendary players compete on its fairways. These high-profile tournaments have solidified Cog Hill's reputation as a premier tournament venue, drawing golf fans and top talent from around the world to Lemont, Illinois.

Why did the PGA Tour stop going to Cog Hill?

The PGA Tour stopped going to Cog Hill primarily due to scheduling changes and course preferences among players. After hosting the BMW Championship (formerly the Western Open) for several years, the event moved to different venues across the Midwest to enhance the tournament's appeal and accessibility. Additionally, some professional golfers expressed concerns about the course conditions and layout changes to Dubsdread (Course #4) after its renovation by Rees Jones in 2008. These factors, combined with the PGA Tour's rotational policy for playoff events, led to the decision to move the BMW Championship away from Cog Hill, though the course remains highly regarded among golf fans and amateurs.

Which course at Cog Hill is the best?

The best course at Cog Hill is widely considered to be Course #4, also known as Dubsdread. Designed by Dick Wilson and Joe Lee, and later renovated by Rees Jones, Dubsdread is a championship-caliber course known for its challenging layout, fast greens, and demanding bunkers. It has hosted multiple PGA Tour events, including the BMW Championship, and is consistently ranked among the top public courses in the United States. Golfers appreciate Dubsdread for its strategic shot-making requirements and pristine conditioning. Whether you're a serious player looking for a true test or a golf fan wanting to walk in the footsteps of the pros, Dubsdread at Cog Hill offers the ultimate golfing experience in the Chicago area.

What is the difference between cog hill course #1 and 3?

The main differences between Cog Hill Course #1 and Course #3 are their layouts, difficulty, and intended audience. Course #1, known as the Blue Course, is the original layout and is designed to be more forgiving and accessible to golfers of all skill levels. It features wider fairways, fewer hazards, and shorter overall length, making it ideal for beginners and casual players. Course #3, or the Red Course, is more challenging with tighter fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and lengthier holes. Course #3 appeals to experienced golfers seeking a more competitive round. Both courses are beautifully maintained, but Course #3 offers a step up in difficulty compared to the friendly, approachable nature of Course #1.