The dreams of eleven sportsmen from the Capital District launched a plan to build a golf club in what is known as “the Pine Bush” area between Albany and Schenectady. The result of those dreams is the golf course that challenges competitors today. It is truly a setting of magnificent beauty and has been called one the area’s most picturesque golf courses.

The Founders

The elevens founders – Peter DeRusico (the first club president), Ernie DelZotto, Leno DelZotto, Dr. Ennio Isabella, Joseph DeRuscio, Francis Juracka, Al Nebolini, Joseph Mazzone, Robert Grasso, Al Cerveca, and Al Percora – began construction of the course in 1959, doing much of the work clearing trees and preparing the land themselves. It is unusual that the site was chosen for a golf course because Pinehaven was literally carved out of a forest of full-grown pitch pines, spruce, Douglas firs and hardwoods.

The Design

The course was designed by Jim Thompson, who was head professional at the Mohawk Golf Club, and Armand Farina, head pro at Schenectady Municipal Golf Course. In later years, other designers, including Geoffrey Cornish and, more recently, Rick Jacobsen, lent guidance to the redesign of various holes and the adding of course features.

The course is a par 71 layout that measures over 6,400 yards form the back tees. Water comes in play on three holes (2, 16, and 17) and the fairways are typically tree-lined and narrow. The course record of 63 was set in 1985 by Jim Jeffers, then a Pinehaven assistant.

In 1997, the course was designated by the Audubon Society under the cooperative sanctuary program for golf courses.

Course Opening

On June 5, 1960, less than two years after the first construction stake was driven in the Pine Bush forest, the first nine holes of the course were opened with ceremonies conducted by Dr. Joseph DeBlase, the second president of the club. Jim Thompson, in honor of his work on the course, hit the first ball. The first foursome consisted of four local professionals, including Steve Savel of Western Turnpike, Bob Haggerty of the Edison Club, Hap Duval of Sanford Golf Club, and Armand Farina of Schenectady Municipal. The second nine holes opened in spring of 1961.

The Clubhouse

Since Pinehaven opened in June 1960, it has had three clubhouses. The first was a small building near the original first tee (near the restrooms and snack shack behind the current eighth tee). The second was an old farmhouse on the site of the present clubhouse. That structure was replaced by the clubhouse designed and built by member Dominic Trischetta on the present site. This latter building was unique because it was built around and over the old farmhouse. The only remnant of that farmhouse is the fireplace in the current lounge area. The first formal dinner-dance was held in the rebuilt clubhouse on April 14, 1967.

A major renovation of the clubhouse was started in 1997 and was completed in the spring of 1998.

Our Professional Staff

Pinehaven is fortunate is have top professionals in the positions of Head Golf Professional and Golf Course Superintendent . PGA Professional Scott Warren is in his tenth year at Pinehaven. Golf Course Superintendent CGCS Rob Bigley is in his nineteenth year at the club.

Programs

In addition to various leagues and events for men and women, Pinehaven offers programs for junior golfers, swimming instruction with interclub competition, and bowling and bridge groups.

Going Forward

Pinehaven has seen many dramatic changes since the first round was played in 1960. One thing that hasn’t changed, however, is the spirit of cooperation and volunteerism demonstrated by its membership.

Pinehaven looks forward to many years of offering its members a golfing experience that is second to none in the Capital District.