History
The Story of Kinloch Golf Club
What began as a simple idea soon grew into something extraordinary. In the late 1990s, Marvin M. “Vinny” Giles III, C.B. Robertson III, and Charles K. Staples envisioned a place where the Richmond community could enjoy a premier “club for a day” golf experience. But as their dream took shape, it quickly evolved into something far greater—a world-class private golf club.
In early 1999, the founders selected golf course architect Lester George to design the course. While the original plan was a daily fee facility, the team realized the potential for something truly special. Their new vision was clear: a private golf club dedicated to excellence in every detail. As Vinny Giles put it at the time, Kinloch would be “a first-class golf club emphasizing immaculate conditioning, a simple but special clubhouse facility, a small and compatible membership, a championship golf course, and service of the highest quality.”
Membership invitations began in July 1999, and less than two years later—on April 14, 2001—Kinloch opened its championship course and practice facilities with 110 founding members. Recognition came swiftly. By the end of that first season, Golf Digest named Kinloch the #1 Best New Private Course in America.
Through every step of its journey, Kinloch has remained true to its mission: honoring the traditions of the game while providing an unmatched standard of conditioning, hospitality, and camaraderie. Hosting championship tournaments such as the 2011 USGA Senior Amateur Championship and the 2024 USGA Mid-Amateur Championship are a testament to its consistency as an esteemed venue.
Today, Kinloch Golf Club stands proudly as one of the finest private clubs in the region—and well beyond
