Above the ornate fireplace in one of the stately dining rooms at Macgregor Downs Country Club, you’ll find the words “Ard Choille” (pronounced R Koil). According to history, it means “to the high woods or a secret meeting place,” and was the war cry of Scotland’s MacGregor Clan. Clan Gregor is one of the oldest clans in Scotland.
Like the clan it gets its name from, MacGregor Downs Country Club in Cary, NC, is one of the oldest golf courses in the area. The Club opened for play in 1967 and was founded by real estate developer Greg Poole, Sr, on what was then a remote tract of land in Wake County. Originally, the Club was to be an all-men’s club; a place where Poole could gather with his buddies, drink scotch, and enjoy a fine cigar. However, after playing the course, Poole’s wife and daughter became fond of it, so it soon became a family-oriented facility.
Poole also saw the real estate development potential, so he purchased the surrounding land which is now the MacGregor Downs community. This premier luxury community offers secluded elegance and sits tucked away amidst the rolling hills, mature trees, and sparkling lakes—homes in the community range from around $600K to $5.3M.
In the early days, the Pooles ran the Club, and with low dues, were able to attract 150 families to join. Fast forward to 1982, when the Pooles sold the club to its members, who realized a more structured hierarchy was necessary for the Club to be successful. They hired industry veteran Russ Curtis, who put together an all-star staff that implemented cutting-edge operational and marketing programs. For five years, things moved in a positive direction. Net membership increased. The average member age declined, and 700 kids were involved in various programs. The club has almost zero debt and has hosted a PGA Tour event and numerous USGA qualifiers.
As time wore on, MacGregor Downs faced the same problems that many member-owned clubs faced. A volunteer board of directors limited its effectiveness. Members who resigned from the club were owed refunds, and incoming entry fees and dues were not enough to cover much-needed capital improvement projects. When the club tried to assess the membership base, it resulted in more resignations.
After performing a Capital Reserve Study near the end of 2013, it was discovered that membership had dwindled to 652 families. Of those, 331 were Golf Members and 122 were Tennis Members, down over 100 net golf memberships since it peaked in 2002. Although the club had experienced a growth of 13 net golf members in the past year, refund clauses and past Board refund practices took nearly all the incoming monies and paid them out to resigned members.
Left with practically nowhere to turn and facing some expensive yet much-needed capital improvements, MacGregor Country Club turned to Concert Golf Partners, experts in revitalizing and rejuvenating floundering clubs. In 2014, Concert Golf Partners purchased MacGregor Downs and immediately set in motion over $4 million in capital improvements. The last 10 years have seen a completely renovated golf course, clubhouse renovations that include the banquet room and locker rooms, and an enclosed outdoor 19th Hole patio.
As you make your way around the golf course, you’ll experience tremendous views and challenging play, regardless of your skill level. The course routing is a giant circle running clockwise around MacGregor Lake. Both nines are hilly and tree-lined and finish close to the clubhouse. On the first hole, you’ll cross MacGregor Lake and won’t face it head-on again until the 18th hole, although it does wind its way behind the fourth green.
MacGregor Downs offers golfers five sets of tees with three more “hybrid” yardages listed on the scorecard. Yardages range from 3,950 for juniors to 7,003 yards for low handicappers. The fairways are well-groomed, and the greens are incredible, fast, and true rolling with subtle undulations that may leave you scratching your head. Inside the pro shop, the friendly you’ll find logoed apparel from well-known manufacturers as well as hats, balls, and other golf accessories. The knowledgeable golf staff can offer tips and tricks that may help you play your best round.
There are several memorable holes on the golf course, but none more so than the 18th hole, which is as visually stunning as it is challenging. Tee off from an elevated tee box over the shimmering waters of MacGregor Lake; how much water is up to you. From the White Tees, the shortest carry is straight ahead – not exactly at the hole on a dogleg right par 4 – but can be the difference between hitting that Pro V1 again or fishing a new one out of your bag. This shot requires about a 165-yard carry; go straight at the green and you’ll need about a 260-yard carry to clear the water. Once you find the fairway off the tee, you’ll have a long to mid-iron into the green. It’s one of the most intimidating holes out here!
Besides golf, MacGregor Downs Country Club has several popular amenities. The Fitness Room features top-of-the-line Cybex equipment, a Bravo Trainer, and free weights. The Club has partnered with several personal trainers who can help you put together the perfect workout regimen.
Should you prefer the courts over the course, MDCC offers 8 clay courts and 2 additional hard court surfaces. The club added 4 pickleball courts in 2024 so members can enjoy the fastest-growing sport in America. Inside the tennis building, you’ll find a Pro Shop, locker rooms, and a covered viewing area overlooking the courts and beautiful Lake MacGregor. Each fall, the Club hosts the Breast Cancer Classic Tournament.
The Junior Olympic swimming pool at MacGregor Downs is the summer gathering place for families and members. Like the tennis courts, the pool facility is located in a magnificent lakeside setting. Kids love the diving board and water slides, while adults enjoy the reserved lap lanes. There’s a separate zero-entry kiddie pool with a water mushroom, and certified lifeguards are always on duty. The full-service Saint Andrews Room Bar and Grill serves all of your poolside favorites. In 2024, the kiddie pool is being replaced later this summer with a modern splash pad and is sure to become the center of attention for families to enjoy.
Most private clubs take pride in their dining facilities and cuisine, and MacGregor Downs is no exception. Members have three dining rooms to choose from, and each one’s decor embraces its Scottish heritage. The Club’s Executive Chef and his team’s culinary ingenuity create seasonal menus as well as new and exciting creations. These dining areas can quickly be transformed into spaces that can host small private functions or provide additional space for larger functions.
Since its opening in 1967, MacGregor Downs has built a reputation as one of the most prestigious private clubs in North Carolina. Members enjoy a clan-like environment, building long-lasting relationships with other members and developing close-knit friendships. It’s one of two Concert Golf Partners properties in the area. The Club at 12 Oaks is a super family-friendly club with a championship golf course and a ton of amenities that the entire family can enjoy. And it’s a mere 20-minute drive away. I mention this because Concert Golf now offers a Premier Golf Membership that allows you and your family to take advantage of all of the amenities at both clubs for one low, monthly fee. Several other membership programs are also available.
If you’re new to the area or are thinking of moving there, check out MacGregor Downs Country Club and see why MacGregor Downs is consistently rated one of the best courses in the Southeast. To arrange a visit, give them a call at (919) 467-0146 or visit www.macgregordowns.org.