History
In the fall of 1994, Outback Steakhouse founders Chris Sullivan, Bob Basham and Bob Merritt decided to move ahead with their dream of building a private, national golf club in their hometown of Tampa, Florida. As friends and business partners, the Outback trio had traveled extensively, playing many of the great courses of Australia, the British Isles and the U.S. They enjoyed the way the game was played on the seaside links of Scotland and the sandbelt courses of Australia and the U.S. On such fabled courses as the Old Course at St. Andrews, Alister MacKenzie’s Royal Melbourne and Donald Ross’ Pinehurst No. 2, the ball bounces and rolls on the firm turf and shots must be created to suit the terrain of the course and the day’s playing conditions. Along the way the triumvirate also gained a true appreciation for the rich history and time-honored traditions of the game. As their passion for golf grew so did their vision for a traditional golf club that would embrace and exemplify all that is good about the game.
Old Memorial Golf Club is a pure, undisturbed sanctuary of golf, where members and guests can get away from the hectic pace of life to enjoy friendly competition, the camaraderie of golfers from diverse backgrounds, and the free exchange of ideas. Along with its outstanding golf course, Old Memorial’s facilities include an extensive practice area, an elegant but comfortable 17,000 square-foot clubhouse, and five well-appointed lodges that can accommodate up to 56 members and guests. The traditional-style clubhouse features an expansive locker-grille room, stuffed leather chairs and generous wood lockers, four suites for overnight guests, and all the conveniences a golfer could imagine.