Six-Time Champion Denied Membership by “a Couple of” American Golf Clubs
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You'd think a golfer capable of competing on the PGA Tour should secure a country club membership without difficulty. However, Marco Penge would disagree.
During the pre-tournament press conference at the Farmers Insurance Open on January 27, Marco Penge was asked about his base in West Palm Beach and which club he was playing out of.
"I’m actually based at Old Palm. They’re very family-oriented and relaxed. I did try to join a couple of other clubs, but I was turned away. I think I may have been a bit too casual for them," joked Marco Penge.
"Old Palm feels like a good fit for me, and the facilities are excellent. It’s nice to be at a golf club that wants me there," he added.
LE VAUDREUIL, FRANCE - JULY 10: Marco Penge of England plays his first shot on the 1st hole during Day four of the Le Vaudreuil Golf Challenge on July 10, 2022, Golf PGA, Golf Herren France du Vaudreuil, France. Photo by Glenn Gervot/Icon Sportswire GOLF: JULY 10 PGA France - Le Vaudreuil Golf Challenge Icon220710723
LE VAUDREUIL, FRANCE - JULY 10: Marco Penge of England plays his first shot on the 1st hole during Day four of the Le Vaudreuil Golf Challenge on July 10, 2022, Golf PGA, Golf Herren France du Vaudreuil, France. Photo by Glenn Gervot/Icon Sportswire GOLF: JULY 10 PGA France - Le Vaudreuil Golf Challenge Icon220710723
Palm Beach and nearby areas are home to several private country clubs, including Jupiter Hills, Emerald Dunes, McArthur Golf Club, and Seminole, which previously even turned away Jack Nicklaus.
In many cases, access to these clubs depends on member connections, and consideration often comes through an invitation rather than a direct application, no matter who is applying.
Marco Penge: From England to His Farmers Insurance Open Debut
Marco Penge was born and raised in England and turned professional in 2017, and began competing on the European Tour.
Although it took a few years, he won three DP World Tour events and finished second in the Race to Dubai standings, which moved him to 29th in the world rankings. That was enough to secure his place on the PGA Tour for the 2026 season.
As a result, he made his first appearance at the Farmers Insurance Open and currently sits at T22 heading into the break. Marco Penge has even made a big change in his bag for the tournament.
The team at GolfWRX spotted him using the latest Scotty Cameron Phantom 5 featuring the Chainlink Face Milling, and the PXG Hot Rod putter.
Written by
Aditi Singh
Edited by
Sagnik Bagchi