History

The Storied History of Haggin Oaks Golf Complex

If the century-old heritage oaks at Haggin Oaks Golf Complex could speak, they would whisper legendary tales of golf’s greatest champions and the unforgettable moments that have shaped the course’s rich history. Designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, the visionary architect behind Augusta National and Cypress Point, Haggin Oaks has stood as a pillar of golf excellence since 1932, welcoming generations of professionals, amateurs, and golf enthusiasts alike.

A Stage for Golf’s Greatest Legends

From its earliest days, Haggin Oaks has been a proving ground for some of the most revered names in golf. Ben Hogan, one of the sport’s all-time greats, won his first professional check here—a modest $350 for a third-place finish at the 1938 Sacramento Open. Before Hogan’s rise to dominance, Gene Sarazen, “The Squire” himself, graced the fairways in the 1935 Sacramento Open, finishing eighth and collecting a prize of $72.

The roster of golf luminaries who have competed at Haggin Oaks reads like a Hall of Fame induction list:

• Walter Hagen – The charismatic five-time PGA Champion teed it up here in the early years.
• Sam Snead – The smooth-swinging “Slammin’ Sam” left his mark on these fairways.
• Jimmy Demaret & Toney Penna – Two of the game’s most stylish players graced these greens.
• Al Geiberger & George Archer – Both players, later major champions, found success here.
• Ken Venturi – Before his 14 PGA TOUR victories and legendary broadcasting career, Venturi won the 1950 California State Fair Championship at Haggin Oaks.
• Byron Nelson – The gentleman of golf, winner of 11 consecutive PGA events in 1945, was another legend who battled the fairways of Sacramento.

The tradition of elite golf competition has continued, with modern-era stars including Bill Glasson, Natalie Gulbis, Annika Sörenstam, Jim Dent, Johnny Miller, and Bob Murphy adding to the course’s illustrious past.

More Than a Championship Venue – A Community Icon

While Haggin Oaks’ competitive history is awe-inspiring, its community impact is equally remarkable. The course has long been a hub for player development, charity events, and entertainment, attracting some of the most recognizable figures outside the professional golf world.

Among the celebrated guests to have walked these fairways:

• Bing Crosby – The legendary entertainer, known for his love of golf, participated in numerous events here.
• Babe Ruth – The Sultan of Swat traded his baseball bat for a golf club and left his own legacy at Haggin Oaks.
• Bob Hope – The legendary comedian and avid golfer was a frequent visitor, often lending his presence to charity events.

Haggin Oaks has also been a center for golf instruction, with some of the game’s most renowned teachers—Hank Haney and Butch Harmon—helping players of all skill levels refine their games.

An Ever-Growing Legacy

The course has continued to evolve, embracing technology, modernization, and an unwavering commitment to growing the game of golf. Haggin Oaks isn’t just a place where championships are won—it’s where golfers of all backgrounds learn, grow, and celebrate the game. From junior clinics to corporate outings, charity tournaments to professional events, the fairways of Haggin Oaks continue to tell new stories every day.

As Haggin Oaks moves beyond its 90th anniversary, its legacy remains as strong as the mighty oaks that have stood watch over its fairways for nearly a century. New players, new champions, and new milestones will continue to add to the incredible history of one of California’s most treasured golf destinations.