An Overview of the SC Golf Course Rankings Panel

Objective and Purpose:

The objective of the South Carolina Golf Course Rankings Panel is to promote excellence in South Carolina golf course design and operations through competitive rankings, education and public advocacy. The Panel serves as an ambassador for golf in South Carolina by striving to stimulate and facilitate the promotion and marketing of the outstanding golf courses, resorts, and real estate developments. The results of the Panel's balloting are published in various publications and web outlets as follows:

1. South Carolina's 50 Best Courses – Every two years the members of the Panel cast a ballot identifying their choices for the “50 Best Courses” in the state, public or private. The result of this voting is published each spring of even-numbered years.
2. The 30 Best Courses You Can Play – During odd-numbered years the Panel will release a listing of the best non-private courses in the state. Every resort, public access, and daily-fee course is eligible for this elite listing.

In addition to the “major” articles above, the South Carolina Golf Course Rankings Panel works with affiliate publications to create special features on subjects such as the state's “Best Finishing Holes,” “Best Courses for Women,” or “Best Courses for Walking,” to name a few examples.

View Our Most Recent Rankings

Structure:

The Panel consists of a maximum of 128 members, up to 8 of which may serve as Regional Directors. Approximately 32 Panelists are chosen from each of the following geographical regions: the Upstate, the Midlands, the Lowcountry, the Greater Charleston area, and the Grand Strand.

Qualifications for Membership:

Membership in the Panel is by invitation. The membership consists of individuals interested in promoting the game of golf in South Carolina and who agree to abide by the bylaws and rules of the Panel. Any member of the Panel may nominate an individual for membership and that nomination shall be presented to the panelists of the prospective member's region. Vote is by simple majority. Playing ability is not a qualifying factor for membership in the Panel, however knowledge of South Carolina courses and appreciation of course design are significant determining factors. Members must meet eligibility standards set by the Panel.

Categories of Membership:

1. Golf Industry – Individuals with a direct or indirect connection to the golf industry.
2. Players & Coaches – Individuals with noted skill at playing, teaching, or coaching.
3. Media – Individuals who over the game of golf for one or more media outlets.
4. Business & Industry – Individuals who utilize golf within the business community.

Total membership is currently limited to 128, with a goal of 25% of the panel representing each of the four categories above.

View Our Current Membership Roster