This May, one Bellingham, Wash. golf course will again serve as the setting of championship golf, as it has done so on several previous occasions. 

Sudden Valley Golf Course will host the 26th Washington Women’s Four-Ball Championship on May 4-5, marking the event’s first appearance there. Sudden Valley has historically been a favored venue for WA Golf championships, having hosted the Washington Men’s Amateur on five occasions (most recently in 2001) as well as the Women’s Amateur in 2019.  

Situated on the shores of Lake Whatcom in the northern county of the same name, Sudden Valley presents a worthy championship challenge. Measuring over 6,400 yards from its longest tees, the track is known for its numerous water hazards and bunkers, and its tall Douglas firs, all of which incentivize finesse and accuracy. 

“Sudden Valley Golf Club is truly honored to host the 2026 Women’s Four-Ball Championship,” said Kevin LeDuc, PGA director of golf. “This championship provides an outstanding opportunity to showcase both the beauty and the competitive challenge of Sudden Valley.” 

According to LeDuc, part of what makes Sudden Valley unique is a stark contrast between its front and back nines. The front side – generally flat and open as it meanders beside Lake Whatcom – caters to long, straight play, while also featuring generous landing areas and large greens. Once a player makes the turn to the back, however, accuracy and course management become a premium. These holes follow an uphill ridge, winding their way through towering Evergreen trees.  

“This balance creates a comprehensive test of both power and precision,” LeDuc explained. 

Sudden Valley’s history dates back to 1971. The course was designed by Ted Robinson, a former president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects. Robinson designed several prominent Northwest layouts, including Sahalee Country Club in Sammamish, Wash., site of several major championships.  

“With the continued resurgence in the popularity of golf and the strong history of accomplished players from Washington, this championship highlights the depth and vitality of the region’s golf community,” LeDuc said. “We look forward to welcoming many of the best female players in the area and showcasing the passion, talent and support that define golf in the state.” 

The Women’s Four-Ball has been held annually since 2000, excluding 2020, when it was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ellen Liao and Shan Song enter the 2026 edition as defending champions. Other pairs to have won include those of Kim Titus/Kelly Gardner (six times since 2014), Shelley Metcalf/Grace Metcalf (2023) and Victoria Fallgren/Leslie Folsom (2018). Folsom has won nine other times, eight of which came in tandem with Jane Harris. 

The Washington Women’s Four-Ball is one of 14 championships held annually by WA Golf.