From the Pros at Aronimink to Our Local Links: Celebrating Lancaster’s Golf Scene

If you have stepped outside lately, you can practically feel the electricity in the air. It is not just the spring breeze or the blooming tulips. It is the unmistakable buzz of golf season in Central Pennsylvania. We are currently standing on the threshold of something truly spectacular for our region. Next week, the eyes of the sporting world will turn toward Newtown Square.

The 108th PGA Championship is arriving at the historic Aronimink Golf Club from May 11 to May 17. For those of us living in Lancaster and the south eastern part of PA. , this is a monumental occasion. It is the first time a PGA major championship has visited the Philadelphia area since 1962. Think about that for a moment. This is a once-in-a-generation event happening right in our extended backyard. 

The Philadelphia PGA just held the Conestoga Classic at Conestoga Country Club in Lancaster and Andrew Cornish of Llanerch Country Club won with a winning score of 63 (7 under!), one better than Braden Shattuck from Rolling Green. Eric Figueroa of McCall Golf Club had a hole-in-one on #5! Braden qualified for the PGA Championship at Aronimink next week, the only pro from Pennsylvania in the field. We'll be rooting for you Braden!

 

Lancaster Country Club has hosted 2 U.S. Women's Opens in 2015 with Chun In-gee being crowned the champion and 2024 won byYuka Saso. Lancaster County poured out in droves to support and observe these championships. 

The Global Spotlight on Aronimink

Aronimink is a course steeped in tradition. It was designed by the legendary Donald Ross. It has a reputation for testing even the greatest players in history. Watching the world's best professionals navigate those challenging greens is going to be a masterclass in the sport. If you were lucky enough to snag tickets, you are in for a treat.

However, the excitement doesn't stop at the gates of Aronimink. The presence of such a high-caliber event shines a bright light on the incredible golf culture we enjoy every day here in Lancaster County. We don't just watch golf; we live it. Our community is home to a vibrant network of organizations that make the game accessible to everyone.

Our Deep Roots in the Game: GAP and WGAP

When we talk about golf in our area, we have to mention the Golf Association of Philadelphia (GAP). It is the oldest regional golf association in the United States founded in 1897. Many of our local clubs are proud members. GAP works tirelessly to preserve the traditions of the game. They host dozens of tournaments that allow local amateurs to compete on championship-level tracks. And the current board president - Ken Phillips - is from Lancaster County!

We also have the Women’s Golf Association of Philadelphia (WGAP). This organization has been a cornerstone for female golfers since 1897 as well. They provide a fantastic platform for competitive play and social connection. Whether you are a scratch golfer or just starting to find your swing, these organizations bridge the gap between casual play and the professional standards we will see at the PGA Championship.

Local Pride: LANCO and LLCCGA

Closer to home, the Lancaster County Golf Association (LANCO) keeps our local spirit alive. They manage our county championships and foster a sense of camaraderie among local clubs. If you want to know what is happening on the greens in Lancaster, LANCO is the heartbeat of the scene since 1959.

Similarly, Lancaster Ladies City-County Golf Association has been in operation since 1963 and holds 4 tournaments in 2026. In addition, the Women's Central Pennsylvania Golf Association (WCPGA) does incredible work. They represent several counties, including Lancaster, York, and Dauphin. They ensure that women in our region have ample opportunities to compete and grow their skills. It is this grassroots dedication that makes our area such a "hole-in-one" for sports enthusiasts.

Mark Your Calendars: Upcoming Local Highlights

While the pros are battling it out for the Wanamaker Trophy next week, our local season is just heating up. I want to highlight some events that demonstrate the depth of our local talent.

First, the Lancaster Ladies City-County Golf Association (LLCCGA) is hosting their 2-Person Scramble on May 21 at Four Seasons Golf Course. LANCO is hosting their scramble at Tanglewood Manor on May 30. These organizations celebrate the history of golf in Lancaster County.

Second, let’s talk about the next generation of golfers. The Lancaster County Junior Golf Tour (LCJGT)  is officially gearing up for the summer. Registration is currently open! Their first event of the season kicks off on June 11 at Overlook Golf Course. If you have a young golfer in your family, I cannot recommend this tour enough. It teaches discipline, sportsmanship, and provides a path for kids to fall in love with the game.

Why Golf Matters to Lancaster Real Estate

You might wonder why a REALTOR® is so excited about fairway bunkers and tee times. The truth is, our local golf scene is a massive part of our lifestyle and property value. When people look for a home in Lancaster County, they aren't just looking at square footage. They are looking for community.

Living near a course like Overlook, Conestoga CC, Foxchase or Lancaster CC offers more than just a view. It offers a way of life. Golf course communities often see stable property values and provide built-in social networks. If you are curious about what is currently available near our local links, contact me for more information. I've been playing golf here since the 80's and participated in these tournaments over the years. I've coached golf, served as program director for the First Tee, the board of LLCCGA and PA State Womens Golf Association board as well. I love this game and the friends and courses I've enjoyed over the years. 

Whether you are an avid player or just enjoy the manicured green space, our "golf-friendly" reputation makes Lancaster a premier destination for homeowners.

Preparing for Your Own Big Season

If the PGA Championship inspires you to host guests or even put your home on the market this summer, now is the time to prepare. Much like a golfer prepping for a tournament, a homeowner needs a solid game plan. You might want to review these 5 steps to prep your home for 2026 buyers.

We are also keeping an eye on broader changes, like the Lancaster County 2027 reassessment. Staying informed is the best way to ensure your real estate "score" stays low while your equity grows.

Final Thoughts from the Fairway

It is truly a privilege to live in a place where world-class sports and tight-knit community events coexist so beautifully. Whether you are heading down to Aronimink to see the superstars or practicing your putting for the LLCCGA scramble, I hope you take a moment to appreciate our local landscape.

We are so lucky to have such dedicated organizations like the LCJGT, LANCO and LLCCGA. They ensure that the game of golf remains a vibrant part of our culture for years to come. If you see me out and about, or perhaps at a local clubhouse, please stop and say hello! I love hearing about your favorite local courses and your latest "birdie" stories.

If you ever have questions about the local market or how your home fits into our wonderful community, please feel free to contact me. I would love to help you navigate your next move.

Wishing you long drives, straight putts, and a wonderful PGA week!

Warmly,

Joyce