Gil Hanse transforms a historic municipal course into one of California’s most inspiring public golf destinations.
For more than 60 years, Maggie Hathaway Golf Course has introduced thousands of golfers to the game in the heart of South Los Angeles. Long known as one of Southern California’s most affordable places to play, the historic nine-hole, par-3 course has undergone a remarkable transformation led by acclaimed golf course architect Gil Hanse, creating one of the country’s most exciting municipal golf renovations.
Known for designing and restoring some of golf’s most celebrated courses—including the Olympic Golf Course in Rio de Janeiro, Los Angeles Country Club, Merion, and Winged Foot—Hanse approached Maggie Hathaway with a unique vision. Rather than simply modernizing the layout, he created a course that introduces golfers to many of golf architecture’s most celebrated design concepts while preserving the character that has made Maggie Hathaway a neighborhood favorite for generations.
“The most important thing we can do with this golf course is also the most difficult,” Hanse said during the renovation. “We need to make it better, but we don’t want to change it. We want to make sure that this golf course is still recognizable and enjoyable to the people who have been here for 30 or 40 years.”
Each hole now reflects design inspiration from some of golf’s most iconic courses. Players will encounter a classic Redan, a Reverse Redan, a Double Plateau green inspired by National Golf Links of America, and green complexes influenced by George C. Thomas masterpieces such as Riviera Country Club and Los Angeles Country Club. The result is a fun, educational experience that allows golfers of every skill level to appreciate timeless architecture.
The renovation extends well beyond the greens. Every bunker, tee and fairway was rebuilt, while new Bermuda turf and a state-of-the-art irrigation system improve year-round conditions and reduce water consumption. Expanded practice facilities, including a redesigned driving range and short-game area, further enhance the experience for beginners, juniors and accomplished players alike.
Made possible through a partnership between Los Angeles County, the USGA, the Southern California Golf Association, Los Angeles Country Club and numerous private donors, the project demonstrates what can be accomplished when the golf community invests in public golf.
Today, Maggie Hathaway stands as far more than a beautifully renovated municipal course. It is a celebration of affordable golf, timeless architecture and community—a shining example that world-class golf experiences don’t have to come with a private club membership.
