Founded in 1873, Royal Montreal is the oldest golf club in this part of the world. Way back then, eight guys sat in a dockside office and formed the Montreal Golf Club. I don't know why it is important, but eleven years later permission was granted by Queen Victoria to use the "Royal" prefix.
The first course was a 9-hole layout that was part of Mount Royal Park, which was shared citizens relaxing in what was then the outskirts of Montreal.
In 1896, the club moved to the Dixie area in the parish of Dorval where it remained until the pressures of urban growth again dictated another move. The clubhouse at Dixie is now the Queen of Angels Academy for Girls, but you knew that didn't you.
In 1959 club moved to Ile Bizard where 45 holes were constructed. The Blue Course, where the America's Cup is being played, continues to be ranked as one of the "100 Greatest Courses in the World". And, incase you didn't know, big-time tournaments are nothing new at Royal Montreal, the Club has hosted the Canadian Open nine times.
If you're asked to tee it up at Royal Montreal, here are some of the rules:
- All members and their guests are required to conform to the dress regulations. These regulations have been instituted to maintain the standards desired by the membership as a whole. If a guest is not correctly dressed, it is up to the host Member to immediately remedy the situation. These regulations apply at all times, including occasions when Members are simply accompanying their children to the Club or in the practice areas and parking lots.
- Golf shirts must have a collar and be tucked into tailored trousers. T-shirts, jeans, rugby or cargo pants and sandals are not permitted. Tailored knee length shorts are permitted only with knee socks with a turned-down cuff or sockettes no higher than the anklebone. Attire with non golf-related insignia is discouraged and hats should not be worn backwards.
- Metal spiked golf shoes may not be worn on the Courses or in the Clubhouse. Sandal golf shoes are not permitted. Shoes without socks are unacceptable.
- Proper golfing attire may be worn daily throughout the Clubhouse, including the Leather Lounge, Card Room and Main Lounge when no event is scheduled. Hats and sandals may not be worn in the Clubhouse.
- Proper golfing attire may be worn; and Members (excluding Juniors) are encouraged to also enjoy these lounges in conjunction with informal or formal dining. These regulations also apply to the Veranda outside of the Leather Lounge. Formal Dining Areas After 5:00 p.m., jacket, tie and tailored trousers must be worn by all gentlemen, including those of intermediate and junior age.
- The use of cellular telephones is not permitted on the property, except in a parked vehicle.
- The standard is a maximum of four hours for a fourball game and a maximum of three and a half hours for a two or threeball game.
- Always be ready to play your shot. In social play, adopt the rule of "hit when ready", having due regard for your fellow players' safety. On the green, line up your putt while the others are putting. Mark your scorecard on the next tee.
- Naturally, we expect all players to replace divots, repair ball marks on the greens and rake the bunkers after playing their shots.
- If adversity strikes and you need time to find your ball, do not hesitate to signal the group behind to play through.
Your observance of the foregoing regulations and courtesies is respectfully requested.
