One of the highly anticipated events of the year for West Coast hickory golfers, the Columbia Cup is played on the Gearhart Golf Links, site of this year’s U.S. Hickory Open. While that event is currently sold out with a wait list, the Columbia Cup offers an opportunity to play this Northwest gem, whether you are on the USHO wait list or just wish to get in another practice round.

Here’s the information supplied by the host Northwest Hickory Players.

The Historic Gearhart Golf Links, Gearhart, Ore., is the site for this two-day event.  The name Columbia comes from the Columbia Rediviva, the ship that Capt. Robert Grey sailed into the area in 1792, subsequently naming the great river the Columbia. The Columbia Cup also honors the Columbia Sportswear Company that has supported our efforts at Gearhart in past years.

The entry fee is $280. Five divisions (Open, Senior, Women, and Super Senior and the OF (over 80) with medals in every division. Note that the Open division is truly open — anyone may enter (any age and both women and men). The practice round is not included in the tournament fee. Contact the pro shop anytime up until the day before the event to schedule a discounted round.

Tournament play both days will be with tee times off No. 1 beginning at 10 a.m. This year there will not be a dinner as part of the tournament.  (Trying to reduce costs as rounds have become more expensive.)

Visit the NWHP Columbia Cup page and click the red RSVP button to enter. DEADLINE is June 20, 2026.

Equipment
The Columbia Cup will follow the SoHG equipment guidelines for pre-1935 equipment.  Any USGA approved ball is allowed including replica balls offered by companies and individuals. 

Practice Round
As the entry fee does not cover the practice round, players may call the pro shop – 503-739-5037 — to arrange to play one in advance of the event.  When you call, indicate that you are in the Columbia Cup to get the discounted rate.  Make sure to arrange a tee time well in advance.

Attire for play
Players are encouraged, not required, to dress in period appropriate attire; basically what would have been typical in that pre-1935 era. Please no shorts or baseball caps.  

Trade Show
An informal trade show will happen after play on Saturday. Using the benches along the sides of the deck as well as nearby tables on the ground level leaves the main part of the deck for others.

Lodging
There are many choices for lodging.  Gearhart by the Sea Condo resort across the street can be reached at 503-738-8331, ext. 501 (by phone works best). They give us a 10% discount (mention Gearhart Hickory Classic).  The McMenamins Gearhart Hotel at the course is a great choice — 503-717-8159.  There are many houses offered on VRBO, AirBnB, bed and breakfasts that can be available near the course. There are a full range of hotels at Seaside, Oregon, 2 miles to the south and at Astoria, Ore., 14 miles to the north. Any of these places can be found by searching online.