326: Gil Hanse: Why Aronimink Is Unlike Any Other Donald Ross Course

Gil Hanse joins Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme for a deep dive on Aronimink Golf Club ahead of the 2026 PGA Championship, which begins May 14 at Donald Ross’s restored Philadelphia-area classic. Hanse explains what makes Aronimink so unique among Ross designs, from its clusters of small bunkers to its bold green complexes, and how his restoration work with Jim Wagner brought the course closer to its original 1920s character.

The crew also discusses tree removal, Philadelphia golf architecture, Cobbs Creek, the 2018 BMW Championship won by Keegan Bradley, and why firm greens, thick rough, and wind could make Aronimink a serious test for the best players in the world. The 2026 PGA Championship is scheduled for May 14–17 at Aronimink.

Don’t forget to like, comment & subscribe for more golf insights, and follow our socials: @thesmylieshow 📺

00:00 Gil Hanse joins to preview Aronimink
01:20 What Donald Ross did differently at Aronimink
04:49 Restoring the course’s original bunker character
07:33 Why tree removal changed the look of Aronimink
10:26 Cobbs Creek and Philadelphia golf architecture
13:43 How Aronimink played in the 2018 BMW Championship
14:56 What could make Aronimink tough for the PGA Championship
17:18 Gil Hanse makes his PGA Championship pick

#Golf #GilHanse #Aronimink #TheSmylieShow #PGAChampionship