Golf’s Mighty Return at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics

ECC Olympics blog

After 112 years, golf has finally returned to the Olympics.

Golf was introduced to the Olympic Games in Paris in 1900 and later in St. Louis in 1904. It was removed when there was an eligibility dispute with the Olympic committee. Concerned by the lack of organization and miscommunication, all British players withdrew.

Even after a support committee was formed, it failed to return due to the lack of entries and sadly, golf disappeared from the Olympic games for over a century.

On October 9, 2009, however, the International Olympic Committee voted to reinstate golf as an Olympic sport for Rio 2016 and the 2020 Summer Olympic Games.

According to the official Rio Summer Olympic games, the competition will consist of a circuit of 72-hole stroke play. The winner is determined as the athlete who finishes the circuit with the lowest number of shots at the end of 4 rounds of 18 holes.

This past Sunday, golf proved to belong in the Olympics with a nail-biting game on the green. Justin Rose and Henrik Stenson battled it out. After a two-lead tie, Justin Rose sunk an incredible birdie and claimed the gold for Great Britain.

I felt very inspired this week, very focused, very motivated. I made it a big deal in my schedule, I made it a big deal all year, I made it a highlight. says gold medalist Justin RoseI don’t know who wouldn’t want to be a part of a great competition.

If Rio 2016 has taught us anything it’s that golf belongs in the Olympics. Viewers from all over the world have watched with unbridled joy as player from different countries have brought the game back to the Summer games with a full swing!

We’ll forgive the 112 golf-free spell if the International Olympic Committee promise to never remove the game again! Just like other Olympic sports, player demonstrate incredible drive (in both senses of the word), passion, and unrivaled athleticism.

Estero Country Club is looking forward to watching golf again in 2020!

It’s Not Over Yet

While the Men’s portion of the games is completed, the Women’s Individual begins tomorrow, August 17th! 16 women from around the world will be competing for the gold! Don’t miss it!

Women’s Individual Schedule

  • Round 1: Wednesday, August 17th at 11:30
  • Round 2: Thursday, August 18th at 11:30
  • Round 3: Friday, August 19th at 11:30
  • Final: Saturday, August 20th at 11:00

Calling All Future Olympians in SWFL

Ready to start practicing for the 2020 Olympics?

Estero Country Club has a pristine, green course for both members and guests. Playing at 7,072 yards from its championship tees, our par 72 course sits on 105 lush acres surrounded by 38 acres of sparkling lakes.

Our course features six sets of tees to challenge the skills of players at every level and every age. We also offer an outstanding practice range, as well as large putting and chipping greens. Play with friends or better your swing with a lesson from our professionals.