Rich Harvest Farms

Rich Harvest Farms grew out of one man's obsession. Businessman Jerry Rich began shaping holes on his Sugar Grove and Big Rock, Illinois land in 1988, starting with just three holes and expanding across a sprawling private estate. After interviewing several architects, Rich decided to route the course himself, bringing in Chicago-area architect Greg Martin to help realize and build the full design. The 18-hole layout officially opened in 1999 and was quickly recognized by Golf Digest, which named it among the best new private courses and later placed it on America's 100 Greatest. The exacting, meticulously conditioned course is best known for hosting the 2009 Solheim Cup, where the United States defeated Europe, along with NCAA championships and the Palmer Cup. It remains one of the most exclusive and rarely seen private clubs in the Midwest.