April 22. The City of Concord’s Rocky River Golf Club rose in North Carolina’s course rankings, as recently released by the NC Golf Panel. In addition to appearing in the Top 100 courses for the 14th time in the 21-year history of the rankings, Rocky River was the highest-ranked public course in the Charlotte metro area.

For 2016, Rocky River was ranked 25th of all public courses in North Carolina, appearing higher in the public course rankings than any other facility in the Charlotte metro. When compared against all courses in the region, Rocky River still emerged a leader, coming in at number 10 of any Charlotte-area course, public or private. Rocky River also improved its standing in the statewide Top 100, rising from 87 in 2015 to 80.

Rocky River has long been considered the premier public course in greater Charlotte, and the NC Golf Panel rankings confirm popular opinion. Ryan Brickley, Rocky River’s PGA Director of Golf, attributes the most recent rankings to the overall experience at the course.

“Our ranking is well-deserved, based on the condition of the course, the great layout and natural beauty of the property, and the enjoyment most people get from spending a day here,” said Brickley. “The renovation of the greens to the newest strain of Bermuda grass has made the course very attractive for tournaments and regular play for all levels of ability. With a great location and beautiful course, it’s a nice combination.”

Since its inception, the North Carolina Golf Panel has emerged as the most authoritative statewide source of golf course rankings in a state that boasts some of the nation’s best courses.

Rocky River Golf Club was designed by renowned golf course architect Dan Maples and opened in 1996. It is home of the Charlotte 49ers’ short-game practice facility and appeals to golfers of all skill levels.

Designed using existing features of the land, golfers experience rock outcroppings and various species of native wetland grasses, as well as four sets of trees. The course has recently-renovated bentgrass greens and Tifway 419 Bermuda fairways.

“This recognition is a testament to the work of Rocky River staff and continuous support of the city council,” said City Manager Brian Hiatt. “Rocky River Golf Club has become a source of community pride as well as a financially stable enterprise with balanced operational revenues and expenses.”

Rocky River is managed by Embassy Suites Charlotte Concord Golf Resort and Spa. The club’s practice facilities include a well-manicured putting and chipping green, four target greens, and 30 grass teeing stations. PGA professionals offer lessons and special golf schools year round.

The recently-expanded clubhouse is available for events and meetings and can accommodate up to 115 guests. As a city-owned facility, the course offers discounted rates for Concord residents.