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West Coast Golf Scotland

7th June 2022/1 Comment/in Random, Travel /by

West Coast Golf in Scotland is still relatively unexplored to both overseas visitors and locals. Most will flock to Fife with an initial pilgrimage to The Home of Golf followed by a trip to East Lothian and the exclusive Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers – Muirfield. If you venture over again a combination of Aberdeen and Inverness will probably round out your Scottish golf resume. Evalu18 and SIGTOA have teamed up to pull back the curtain on your next holiday – West Coast Golf – Scotland.

Dundonald Links – West Coast Golf – Scotland

Dundonald Links is a Kyle Phillips design in Ayrshire. After a trans-Atlantic flight, you want to get to your accommodation, get settled in, and refresh yourself for the trip of a lifetime. Dundonald Links is the perfect way to start your trip – just a quick trip from the airport and easily accessible from both Glasgow and Edinburgh. What you’ll find is a modern golf course that is the perfect first taste of links golf. It’s firm and fast golf with tight turf and has a bit of everything you’ll find on your journey – from burns to gorse.

The accommodation and clubhouse facilities are second to none and probably will end up being amongst the best you’ll find in Scotland. If you want a soft landing or a treat before you fly home, use Dundonald Links as a base for trip. From here, you have easy access to Royal Troon, Prestwick, and Trump Turnberry. If you want to add on Western Gailes, it is also worth an extra day to play. Additionally, don’t be in a hurry to move on from Royal Troon as the Portland Course is an Alister Mackenzie design from 1920.

Dundonald Links also has a grass driving range, short game facilities, modern accommodation with satellite TV, and fine dining at reasonable rates taking into account the quality on offer. The hotel rooms (shown below) are perfect for a single or couple. The lodges can accommodate large groups. We stayed in Room 6 with the driving range just over that sandhill behind. It was perfect for little range sessions to loosen up after a long-haul flight.

See our article for an in-depth look at Dundonald Links from an architectural and historical, perspective

Royal Troon Old Course – Scotland’s West Coast

Royal Troon blew me away. Even at 51 in the world, one wonders why it isn’t higher and we don’t hear more about it. Perhaps it is the first impression? The opening holes are quietly elegant and needed before the rollercoaster ride that is holes 7 through 11. You will have heard about The Postage Stamp but it surely is one of life’s ambitions to play it. I think it was one of the most ludicrous holes I’ve played and absolutely sublime!

The other world-class standout hole is Railway. It uses the boundary railway line to perfection and is an example of strategic minimalism at its finest. Tom Simpson would be jealous of this hole.

Whilst Tom Doak recommends an architectural student pay attention to the bunkering, it was the bunker-less holes that really stood out for me. The 10th is incredible and followed closely by the 13th. Both examples where the brilliance of the land was allowed to take center stage. See our article for an in-depth look at Royal Troon from an architectural and historical perspective.

Western Gailes Golf Club

Western Gailes Golf Club was a late addition but not because of it not being on my list. I had long been told of its quality and even been told it was the best links in Ayrshire! While I cannot wholeheartedly agree with that sentiment, it certainly is one of the most complete sets of 18 links golf holes I’ve come across.

Western Gailes has had recent work done and the improvements are very good. More short grass, wider fairways, less gorse, naturalised bunkers and new, expansive green surrounds make it a better version of itself.

The 6th and 7th holes are two of the best I’ve come across on my travels and are early front runners for the best of the trip! Read more about Western Gailes Golf Club on its dedicated page.

And the clubhouse… perhaps the best locker room I’ve come across in golf yet.

Shiskine Golf & Tennis Club

12 holes of sheer fun. The opening is strategically sound and it is accomplished with a road and a single bunker that dictates play from the tee and on the second shot.

Holes 3, 4, and 5 are a collection of great par 3’s. A risk and reward par 4 follows on the 6th followed by a Dell hole on the 7th that makes the original look like child’s play with the burn behind the green.

The 11th is the final hole of note with a double punchbowl – a punchbowl for the approach and another for the green… approached blind, of course! Read more about Shiskine Golf Club on its dedicated page.

Machrihanish Dunes

The most undulating golf course I’ve ever walked… no massive dunes just ‘mammoth’ micro undulations in the fairways. Once navigated, the fun has just begun… David McLay Kidd earned his reputation for fun golf and bold greens… he did his best here to uphold that ideal here.

If you could ever just find golf, it was found here. Tees were leveled and greens contoured but other than that, the grass has simply been mown. A solid test and set of holes, there is blindness and carries over thick marram. If you struggle with that, it could be a long round.

Spend some time with Lorna and Willie if you can, you’ll not regret it! Read more about Shiskine Golf Club on its dedicated page.

Machrihanish Golf Club

One of the world’s best in unbelievable weather – bright, sunny, dry, and very windy. A 30 mph wind and gusting… it was perfect.

The course oozes old school charm and character. Nothing is flamboyant nor extravagant – it is just mature class in every sense. If it were a boat, it would be a Riva – understated yet bold and timelessly elegant.

My new muse, Machrihanish has consumed my thoughts since play. A new clubhouse and pro shop have not meant sacrificing the old clubhouse (now a pub) and the old ladies’ locker room will soon be on course accommodation.

Dunaverty Golf Club

Dun-Averty, not Duna-Verty… or Southend as the locals may call it. Dunaverty Golf Club is reportedly one of the best short golf courses in the world. There are some great holes, suspect holes, and loads of quirks. It’s been said that it provides the most fun you can have on a golf course.

If you ratcheted up Machrihanish Dunes to 11, put it on even more undulating terrain, and removed the subtle touch of Mr. McLay Kidd, you’d have Dunaverty. Read more about Dunaverty Golf Club on its dedicated page.

Carradale Golf Club

Overlook the 1st and 9th and the repetitive 4th and 5th and there is more than enough to keep you interested here.

The 2nd and 6th are standout holes. The second is brilliantly simple and demands a placed tee shot and an accurate second. The 6th is a two-shot par 3 or risk and reward single shot hole.

It’s 9 holes of fun and is a quick round after the ferry from Shiskine. Play it on the way over or before Dunaverty. Read more about Carradale Golf Club on its dedicated page.

The Machrie

A new-old links with terrific heritage, amazing ambiance, and facilities to swoon over. There is the Himalayas Putting Green, 6-Hole Wee Course named the Willie Campbell. The putting green and short game area are steps from the first tee and the 18 holes that follow are some of the best in the UK & Ireland.

The Isle of Islay is a long way to come for a single course… The only other option is Ardfin on Jura but that’s not a viable option for most at £1500 + per round. That means The Machrie Links needs to be special, and it is. It is still bedding in and evolving but as it stands now, is worth the journey. Read more about The Machrie on its dedicated page.

Traigh Golf Course

Traigh is one of the best 9 hole golf courses in the UK. The scenery is stunning which certainly helps but the genius is the use of the central dune ridgeline.

The 2nd hole is one of the best par 5’s I’ve played. Long at St Andrew’s has 5 routes but no distinct options. The 2nd hole has two routes but two options to choose from… not subtle but a helluva hole to play. It offers a risk and reward route that effectively changes the hole into a gettable Par 4… If the alternative route is taken, it plays as a true three-shot hole… Below is the punchbowl green on the 2nd hole.

Iona Golf Course

Iona Golf Course is accessible on foot after taking a short ferry from Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull. As the ferry attendant told us upon arrival: “There is one road… go left not right and walk until the end.” The walk there is a tad uphill and feels longer than it actually is. The road ends with the gates to the machair and the links.

It is already one of the best golf courses I have ever played. I imagine this was what the great golf courses were like 130 years ago. It’s simply sublime… and the potential is unrivaled. It would have to be a contender for the first 12-hole golf course to break into the world top 100.

Tobermory Golf Club

Tobermory Golf Club is a 9 hole golf course set on the cliffs overlooking Tobermory Bay. Panoramic views of Ardnamurchan, Loch Sunart, and the Isle of Skye are astounding. Found on the remote Isle of Mull, the club is a member of the Argyll & Bute Golf Union.

The original course numbered 18 holes and measured 3717 yards. Much of the course would have been found on the high part of the hill in what is now rough moorland. Seven holes would have been found there. Eight of the original holes would be kept to make the current nine-hole course.

No tee times – show up, pay your money and play. You can use the Honesty Box or pay at Brown’s Shop on the High Street. Read more about Tobermory Golf Club on its dedicated page.

Isle of Barra Golf Club

Established in 1992, the small nine-hole Barra Golf Club golf course is laid out over turbulent land that doesn’t necessarily scream links.

The 2nd, 5th, and 9th at Barra Golf Club are solid with the sum of the others being greater than the whole of its parts.

The final four holes are made up of two par 4’s of almost identical length along with two par 3’s of very similar length. Despite what’s on paper, they all play differently from one another.

All in all, Barra Golf Club is quirky and has one standout hole (the 5th) and 7 solid holes. The view from the tee on the 5th is shown below… your line is the U in the middle of the frame.

For a nine-hole golf course, that’s pretty good going… Read more about Barra Golf Club on its dedicated page.

Askernish Golf Club

Askernish Golf Club is the jewel in the Outer Hebridean golfing crown. The foundations were laid by Old Tom Morris and later revived by an all-star team of some of golf’s brightest architectural minds. It is rugged and pure. If there is no wind, it is entirely gettable but the greens will stand up to most and a breath of wind adds both bark and bite.

Here you can revisit the origins of the game and walk through the evolution of golf. Hazards are not man-made and mechanical earth moving has never been employed. You can play golf as it was and how it is meant to be.

For more information on the evolution of the links and what to expect… read about Askernish Golf Club on its dedicated page.

Isle of Harris Golf Club

The third course you’ll want to play in the Outer Hebrides is the Isle of Harris Golf Club. It is a cracking 9-hole golf course on one of the most mesmerizing stretches of seaside real estate in the world. Scarista Mhor and Taransay Sound must be amongst the most picturesque locations of golf anywhere in the world.

The 2nd hole and 4th green are two of the highlights of my entire trip. The jury is still out on the recent changes but it is worth the journey alongside Askernish. For more information on the evolution of the links and what to expect… read about Isle of Harris Golf Club on its dedicated page.

Gairloch Golf Club

After the ferry back from Ullapool, I took the ultra scenic drive to Gairloch Golf Club… I had heard reports of a good golf course but had never seen any photos or real reviews… it was the surprise of the trip. A solid set of holes that had 2 standouts… one of which much be in the running for the best of the entire trip – the 8th shown below.

The short 7th was less than 85 yards and one of the best short holes I’ve played due to partial blindness…

Every once in a while you find a wee 9-hole golf course that offers great golf with the right amount of quirk and charm. I’d count Traigh, Harris, Durness, and Mildenhall as other golf courses on that list. Gairloch is one of the better 9 hole courses I’ve ever played and probably is near the top of the shortlist mentioned previously…

Durness Golf Club

Durness Golf Club is a course that captures the soul and spirit of the ancient game. It was founded by three locals in 1988 and continues to gain acclaim from those who have made the trek to play it!

Durness is pure golf with a touch of class. The 9th is what most will remember but the other holes offer higher caliber golf for those who place strategy above aesthetics… Read more about Durness Golf Club on its dedicated page.

Prestwick Golf Club

More to come on Prestwick… This was the best experience of the trip. Other courses may be more dramatic or scenic, but for strategic, historic, and architecturally sound golf, Prestwick is in a league of its own…

Where is Trump Turnberry?

We tried our best to get to Turnberry but to no avail… it doesn’t dampen our spirits… it gives us an opportunity to go again! For more information on the evolution of the links and what to expect… read about Turnberry on its dedicated page.

Inspired by West Coast Golf – Scotland?

Contact SIGTOA to speak with local experts who specialize in bespoke Scottish Golf Tours.

Half Set

18th June 2021/6 Comments/in Equipment, Random /by

A half set of golf clubs is also known as a beginner set. For many of us, our first set of golf clubs was a half set consisting of a driver, 3, 5, 7, and 9 iron, and a putter. 6 clubs were all we needed and then we realised we could carry 8 more. The age-old question is: should you just because you can?

Building a Half Set

The good news is you probably have everything you need to get your first half set sorted. It’s pretty simple really, just get rid of some clubs.

Ditch the Clubs You Don’t Use

The first few clubs are pretty easy to choose. Look for wear – if your 3 or 4 iron is still in factory condition chances are you won’t miss it. It’s quite easy to go from 14 to 13 or 12… the next few get a little harder part with.

The putter, in my case a made to measure Edel EAS 1.0, is the only club you don’t have to think about when choosing your half set bag.

Use Your Yardages To Lose More

After you rid yourself of the clubs you don’t use anyways, look for the golf clubs which you hit roughly the same distance. For example, your 5 wood and your lowest hybrid may go the same distance. Pick the one you’re most confident with or that is the most versatile. You probably have one or two clubs that will fit into this category. Congratulations – you’ve made it to 12 or 11 clubs without really giving anything up except your security blanket… which you don’t need anymore, right?

Be Honest With Yourself to Lose The Rest

Another way to lose a couple of clubs is to simply be honest with yourself. Until now we have focused on the top of the bag, this is where you can lose a club or too from the bottom of the bag. When was the last time you pulled off a flop shot from a downhill, tight lie to a tucked pin behind a bunker with the green running away from you after short-sided yourself? The answer to that question should indicate where we are going with this one… ditching your 64-degree lob wedge might be a good place to start.

Building a Half Set Summary

You can probably lose 3 or 4 clubs by 1) ditching the clubs you don’t use, 2) removing duplicate clubs using yardages, and 3) removing the clubs you don’t have the skill to use anyways. In truth, you will probably score better by making these changes anyways because when you remove the opportunity to play a shot you shouldn’t be attempting anyways. You’ve probably made it from 14 to 10 or 11 clubs.

Building a Half Set – Iron Options

This is where the next few clubs can pose some tough decisions. The easiest way to take the next step is to play half set Blackjack and choose Evens or Odds.

Evens Half Set

Pretty straightforward, this will leave you with the following: 4, 6, 8 irons and Pitching Wedge or 10 iron as it more or less. If you’ve followed the preceding steps, you’ve probably already dropped your 4 iron. That means you have between 4 to 6 clubs, including your putter, committed to your bag.

I have chosen the evens for my half set. The 8-degree gaps marry nicely with my wedge set up and I can drop the 4 iron for a hybrid.

Odds Half Set

Logically, you’ll be gaming 3, 5, 7, and 9 irons. With modern lofts, you’ll have to do some homework. If your irons are modern, super game improvement irons, check the loft of the 9 iron. It could be a little as 38 degrees. This is important when you get to the bottom of the bag, in other words, your wedges. If you have a 38 degree 9 iron and your wedge is 56 degrees, your going to struggle with hitting your numbers.

Buy a Half Set

Some boutique brands (see National Custom) offer a number of short set options. For example, Geom offers a Half Set (1/2 Set), a Third Set (1/3 Set), and a Quarter Set (1/4 Set). The Half Set consists of 4 clubs (21*, 29*, 37*, and 45*), the Third Set has 3 clubs (29*, 37*, and 45*), and the Quarter Set is made of 2 irons (37* and 45*). All irons have 8-degree differences between irons. Links Soul’s Colour Theory half set are Miura blades with lofts at 25*, 32*, 40*, and 49*. National Custom can do any combination you like.

Choose Your Loft Intervals

The moral of the story here is to choose your loft intervals. Industry standards (if there is such a thing?!) usually have 4-degree intervals between irons. The easy way to do it is to jump to 8-degree intervals and be done by dropping every second iron. If you go old school, you’ll have 24 degree (4 iron), 32 degree (6 iron), 40 degree (8 iron), 48 degree (Pitching Wedge), 56 degree (Sand Wedge). The most important loft is your last iron – find that and work out your wedges with consistent loft intervals.

Embracing the Half Set Movement

The half set movement is intrinsically linked to golf’s growing subgenres that have united the woke crowd lurking on social media. Tour visors, bucket hats, Sunday bags, pencil bags, leather goods, custom ball markers, pitch repair tools, and casual golf wear is all part of the scene. Whatever niche floats your boat, there is a common thread of breaking the norm and enjoying the game is of paramount importance.

Less Than 14 <14

The unofficial advocate of the half set movement is the Instagram is @lessthan14. Give them a follow and unite with other minimalists who don’t need 14 golf clubs to enjoy golf.

Half Set Sunday Bags & Half Set Pencil Bags

The beautiful thing with half sets is they are lighter and easier to carry. If you use your standard carry bag, your kit will quite literally be chattering about in your bag. A little bit like a large house, if you have it you’ll fill it. If you downsize, it’ll encourage you to walk and cement your support of the movement.

There is a load of options from the ridiculous to the sublime. An inexpensive option based in the UK is the Conybeare Golf Bag starting at £90. At the other end of the market is the Original Mackenzie Bag which landed in the UK are in the region of £800. There are quite a few options in the middle ground – The Jones Golf Bags Original Carry Bag will set you back £159.

Making the Transition to a Half Set

The toughest part of the transition is the first step. Once you commit, you’ll realise you didn’t use the clubs you dropped and you may even see an improvement in scoring.

Half Set & Wedge Sets

Once you choose the loft interval you’ll need to sort out the bottom end of the bag. The bottom of the bag is your wedge set. If you’ve chosen an 8 degree increment, game a 54 to 56 degree Sand Wedge and be done. If I need extra insurance, I through in the Gap Wedge and Lob Wedge. As the majority of the shots are within 100 yards of the green, the extra wedges help me score if I absolutely need the help.

I can put all three wedges in my bag if I feel the need for the extra shot-making options.
I can also drop the 50 degree and 58 degree for an 8-degree gap from my Pitching Wedge.

Half Set & Drivers, Fairways & Hybrids

At the other end of the bag, you’ll need to start with the yardage of your longest iron. Most amateurs hit their 3 wood the same distance as their driver. Most golfers can hit a fairway wood off the tee and through the fairway. Another easy choice if made logically and not with your ego. A modern driving iron is also a viable option. After that, you may wish to add a 5 or 7 wood and a long iron replacement hybrid and you have your short set sorted.

The Callaway Deuce can be found for next to nothing. Dropping the Driver and 3 wood for a 2 Wood gives me the best of both worlds.

Callaway Half Sets

Callaway has an 8 and 11 piece set for Women and a 10 piece set for Teens. Men don’t play half sets I guess, but I digress. Despite the oversight, they do provide a couple of generic models to follow:

Women’s 8 Piece Reva
Driver (12.5*)
5 Wood
5 Hybrid
7 & 9 Irons (33* & 43*)
Sand Wedge (56*)
Putter

Women’s 11 Piece Reva
Driver (12.5*)
3 Wood
5 Hybrid
6 Hybrid
7, 8 & 9 Irons (33*, 38* & 43*)
Pitching Wedge (48*)
Sand Wedge (56*)
Putter

Teen 10 Piece Reva
Driver (14)
Fairway Wood (19*)
Hybrid (27*)
6, 7, 8 & 9 Irons (32*, 36*, 40* & 44*)
Pitching Wedge (48*)
Sand Wedge (56*)
Putter

Half Set Issues

Gapping. If you follow the tips set out above, there won’t be too many holes to fill. Most golfers think they hit their numbers consistently but you’ll be doing well if your + or – 5 yards of what you think you hit it anyways.

Confidence. If you’re used to hitting numbers, make sure you have a club that suits your typical leave yardage. For example, if you love a 9 iron from 140 yards, find a way to keep that club in your bag. If you know you have a stock shot you can hit on command, keep that club and hit it.

Half Set Opportunities

Shot making. When you don’t have the number you have to manufacture a shot – the art of golf. Focus on the trajectory, shot shape, and your tempo – once you get back to trying to hit shots rather than mechanically hit numbers, I reckon your enjoyment will go up.

Fun. If you’ve handicapped yourself with half the tools available to you it’s pretty tough to take the game too seriously. Scoring becomes less important and other aspects of the game appreciate in perceived value.

Minimalism. Once you’ve been bitten by the bug you will see how many clubs you can ditch. Seven clubs is as lean as I’ve tried… the Deuce, 3 Hyrbid, 6 iron, 8 iron, Pitching Wedge, 54-degree wedge, and a putter. You’ll probably lose the yardage book and laser. The bag is light and has little storage so you don’t need a trolley or cart. If you’re playing a quick nine, one sleeve of balls, a few tees, and your divot repair tool and you’re away – liberating.

Benefits of a Half Set

We’ve scribed a few points below about the benefits of the gaming a half set, quarter set, third set or short set. If you’re playing less than 14, you’ve paid your dues.

Walking

It’s lighter. It’s quick. It’s easy. Read about my journey from decadent materialist to golf minimalist and why the right bag is so important.

A single-strap Sunday Bag at Royal Worlington & Newmarket Golf Club.
Dew sweeping on the Sacred Nine is one of life’s pleasures.

Different & Forward Tees

With a full set, the goal always seems to be making the game a test and pushing the limits. You find yourself playing from the back tees because you have no excuse not to. With a half set, you can embrace change and even play from the forward tees or even different tees on each hole. Imagine being unencumbered and playing from the tees which make the hole the most interesting from a strategic point of view.

Game Formats

When you’re not attempting to shoot a score and go for your career-low round, you can play different formats… why not match play or foursomes? It’s quick, fun, and the game of golf that most have never experienced. It’s the perfect complement to the half-set culture.

Tell us about how you’ve benefitted from embracing the minimalist golf movement in the comments below!

What is Golf Course Architecture?

5th June 2021/0 Comments/in Random /by

“What is golf course architecture? Is that even a thing?” These are the usual responses I hear when I attempt to explain what one’s passion is. I can do no better than quote a reply on Twitter from Tom Doak & Rennaissance Golf Design Lead Associate, Brian Schneider: “Golf Course Architecture is golf.” Is it really that simple or profound? If so, why do so many completely miss the importance of golf course architecture or even fail to conceive of its’ existence?

What is Golf Course Architecture?

Like most things in golf, there is no codified explanation or even a vaguely held general consensus as to what golf course architecture could possibly mean. If you were to ask the question to a Golf Course Manager, Tour Player, or Golf Course Architect each would probably furnish a different response, and interestingly, each could be correct.

For example, we asked US Amateur Champion, Walker Cup Participant, and European Tour player, Richie Ramsay for his definition. He answered: “Golf Course Architecture is the compilation and arrangement of features which will create character and beauty while providing strategic options to enhance the golfing experience.”

Stewart Duff, Course Manager of Gullane Golf Club, answered: “Golf Course Architecture is a group of thoughts or ideas that use or tweak land to create a new hole, new course or to improve an old hole or course. …those involved have to understand all aspects of golf.”

James Bledge, Course and Estates Manager at Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club, defined Golf Course Architecture as “making the best use of a piece of land, the views, undulations, shapes, features, and backdrops to create a playable, aesthetically pleasing haven where golfers can feel secluded from the world yet fixated in the beautiful game.”

Brian Schneider expanded further, saying: “Golf Course Architecture is golf. I really do think that (golf course) architecture can and should be that simple. It’s not the architect’s job to determine or define the way a hole should be played, they simply need to present natural features or create artificial ones that make getting your ball from one place to another as fun and interesting as possible. The more often those features can be tightly mown contour, rather than something more complicated, the better.”

How would you define it? The answer may give you insight into how you perceive the game and what really matters to you.

Architect -What’s In a Word?

A logical place to start is to define the role of the practitioner of golf course architecture – the golf course architect. An understanding of the context of where and when the term was first used is quite compelling.

Drawing upon the etymology of British English, it is intriguing to consider that the term architect had long been associated with an individual who was a master builder – an artisan who was adept at a wide array of trades and proficient at them all. Of note, the titles architect and engineer were used virtually interchangeably in the British English vernacular until relatively recently. Today, the term engineer is used much more broadly and loosely in Britain than in North America. In fact, there is no restriction on the right to practice (or use the title of) as an engineer in the U.K.

This is of note as it would be late in the 19th century or early in the 20th century in Britain that the term ‘golf course architect’ was first applied to those who laid out golf courses. The use of the term drew the ire of many as even the concept of the skill, let alone the art, was still embryotic. The term appears to have been applied early on to renowned golf course architect, Harry Colt.

Golf Course Architecture – Developing the Art

The spread of the game of golf inland from the seaside links called for the expertise of those who understood what made links golf so compelling. Early attempts were rudimentary with the inland golf courses of Britain resembling steeplechase, with cross bunkers taking the place of hurdles. Good shots were rewarded whilst bad shots were penalized. Hazards were utilitarian and served a definite role – to intimidate and were very much to be avoided. The penal concept was easy to explain and easier to grasp. The elephant in the room? The golf didn’t titillate the way the links golf did… It would seem the early golf course architects themselves were still attempting to suss out what made for good golf.

To unlock the magic, the development of various schools of thought attempted to lay the foundation for making design decisions. For example, in 1920 Alister MacKenzie laid out 13 principles that laid the foundation and guided his work. Later on, he would suggest the first essential was not essential at all, namely, that the course should be arranged in two loops of nine holes. Also in 1920, Harry Colt wrote his book: Some Essays on Golf Course Architecture. He didn’t enumerate his design theory but explained it with words and by example. Somewhat late to the party was Tom Simpson, who waited until 1929 to write: The Architectural Side of Golf. Tom Simpson took the Strategic School to the next level and developed what could be termed Strategic Minimalism. Although he didn’t codify his design ethos, he sang from the hymn sheet of John Low, who prior to them all, in 1903, scribed 11 points in a single chapter which would later be termed ‘Articles of Faith’ in the book, Concerning Golf.

What is for definite is the evidence of the emergence of a trade, the mastery of numerous skills, and the development of an art form. Trial and error, deep thought, and copious amounts of Kummel and whiskey no doubt helped. It seems this accumulation of knowledge and understanding is what has now accepted as golf course architecture.

No Longer a Jack of All Trades

Today, a modern practicer of golf course architecture must be much more than simply a golf course designer. They must be intimately acquainted with the legal (planning), social, and political arenas where there work. Look no further than Scotland and the dissension around a recently proposed golf course, a recently renovated links golf course, and a new build links as high-profile examples. In addition, the environmental impact of golf is under incredible scrutiny, deserved or not. Irrigation, drainage, pesticides, turfgrass science, agronomy, woodland management, and regeneration (of heather, for example) are also all skills that need to be acquired or hired by a golf course architect worth his salt… and we still haven’t got to the golf (or maybe this is golf?) yet!

So then… What is Golf Course Architecture?

The answer would have to be a combination of all the above. Golf course architecture has to be a talent, a set of skills, a plethora of trades, and an artform. It is the assembling of an incredibly diverse array of skillsets singularly applied to making the most enjoyable golfing experience possible of a chosen piece of land. Golf course architecture is the cumulative sum of all these parts.

Perhaps this is where we can also agree on a point: Not all golf is good golf… the good news is most of these examples will eventually be weeded out by attrition. However, what exactly differentiates the good from the bad and the ugly? Golf course architecture allows one the ability to articulate, on the basis of knowledge, what makes for good golf. Your conclusion may not be agreeable to all, but this may simply be a matter of taste.

Taste and Golf Course Architecture

This is where I feel taste needs to be factored in and respected. Good design can be observed, appreciated, and is generally – universally accepted. It may not be to one’s taste or preference but it can still be applauded and appreciated. In fact, this may be the litmus test of whether you can define, using golf course architecture, what makes for good golf. Can you recognize ‘good golf’ despite it contravening your personal golf preference? It is golf course architecture that enables that possibility.

For example, Minchinhampton Old Course may not appeal to the average golfer – but the golf? Sublime. To others, Adare Manor may be one’s idea of golf heaven on earth. Can you see the best of golf in both? Can you identify what makes both ‘good’? For me, the ability to articulate one’s reasons why both are ‘good’, despite being polar opposites, partly answers the question: What is golf course architecture?

If you were to ask me to define golf course architecture, my considered response would be: It is the collective group of elements (including but not limited to skills, concepts, and artforms) that allows one to judge some golf as good whilst respecting taste and preference.

I feel an interest in golf course architecture has allowed me to see golf courses without prejudice and to accept each on its own merits. Each golf course can be evaluated individually and not simply according to a formula-based prescription.

Harry Rountree

17th April 2021/0 Comments/in Random /by

For golfers, Harry Rountree is best known for his watercolours in Bernard Darwin’s book, The Golf Courses of the British Isles.

The Golf Courses of the British Isles

The book contains Bernard Darwin’s descriptions of various golf courses from Aberdovey to Woking in what is now The Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England. Harry Rountree’s name was misspelled on the cover of the First Edition from 1910. The book’s full title was:

The Golf Courses of the British Isles
Described by Bernard Darwin
Painted by Harry Rowntree

The book contains 64 plates or illustrations of which 49 are colour and 15 are monochrome. The classic green cloth binding with gold gilt is handsome indeed! The Scottish Thistle, English Rose, and Irish Clover are also to be seen on the cover.

The Early Life Harry Rountree

Contrary to popular opinion, Harry Rountree was a Kiwi! Born in 1878 in Auckland, New Zealand, his father was a banker of Irish descent and his mother was a local from a prominent family. After attending Auckland’s Queen’s College, he began working at Wilson and Horton Printers designing stationery with his earliest work published in 1899.

His skill earned him work with the Auckland Weekly News which had ties to the London periodical press. By 1901, Harry Rountree was on his way to London to pursue his dream and passion. He described the decision to move in 1909 when he said: “Auckland is my native city and New Zealand is my nation…though it may be glorious for sheep, for the simple life, for lots of fun, yet it is no place for the black-and-white artist who wants to sell his wares.” His plan was to stay in London for 2 years.

Harry Rountree in London

Despite his obvious talent, Harry Rountree was but a small fish in a very large pond. He enrolled in Regent Street Polytechnic’s School of Art and made a contact who was the editor of a small magazine. His commissions for the small magazine made an impression and lead to his work being sought after. The subject matter? Mostly animals from visits to London Zoo! His obvious gift is clearly seen in the watercolour: Portmarnock Golf Club, ‘Coming Home’.

Harry Rountree soon became sought after and prolific. His work was seen in King Magazine, Little Folks, The Strand, Cassell’s, Pearson’s, The Sketch, The Illustrated London News, Playtime, Little Folks, Punch and countess others. Of particular note was his association with writers Bernard Darwin, PG Woodhouse and New Zealand Golf Cub member, Arthur Conan Doyle. Outside of the golf world, his most well-known illustrations are found in Lewis Carrol’s Alice in Wonderland.

Harry Rountree’s Legacy

Harry Rountree passed away on September 26, 1950, aged 72. With plans to stay in London for just two years, he made a life left a legacy that continues to be felt today. Three days after his death, an article appeared in the St Ives Times written by Bernard Ninnes stated:

“As an artist, he stood alone in his own sphere as the supreme delineator of bird and animal life. His drawings and paintings in this specialised field bore the authentic stamp of deepest study and intimate familiarity of these subjects… his charming personality, the wit of his drawings and rare ability as a raconteur made him outstanding… He was one of the grand company of illustrators of the Edwardian and first Georgian period, a time when illustration had reached a pinnacle of excellence…”

We are in complete agreement. The detail and depth of Harry Rountree’s watercolours in the book, Golf Course’s of The British Isles are iconic. We are proud to announce that all 64 are now available for all to enjoy in our shop.

The Modern Golf Art Revolution – Joe McDonnell

26th February 2021/0 Comments/in Random /by

The Modern Golf Art Revolution

Evalu18’s journey to uncover and discover the greatest and most architecturally rich golf courses in the UK & Ireland has brought us into contact with many like-minded people. Modern golf art connoisseur, talented artist and life-long Hoylake member, Joe McDonnell is one of them – and his journey has become part of ours.

St Andrews Old Course WaterMap

One of the first architectural research projects Evalu18 undertook, was an in-depth study of the Old Course – nothing like aiming for the sky! The purpose? To share every last detail that had been forgotten over time. After months of reading, research and assistance from Old Course experts such as Scott McPherson, we were feeling pretty good about the whole thing and wrote an in-depth review, but we felt it warranted something more.

We’d connected with Joe on social media and could clearly see that he had an ability to visualise courses in a way we’d never seen before. Merging our research with Joe’s creativity, we decide to make a map with all the named bunkers and other features ‘called-out’ whilst giving a ‘nod’ to the original 1924 Alister MacKenzie map. And so it began.

The St Andrews Old Course ‘WaterMap’ has been met with acclaim, with the ultimate acknowledgement coming from St Andrews Links Trust, with whom this original map is now under licence. Since then, other clubs and their dedicated members in the UK, Ireland, USA and across the globe have become eager to commission artworks in a similar style.

Joe McDonnell’s Process

Joe’s technique is very different from, and vastly more complex than, the many simpler course maps that are available online – most of which are created from tracing the outlines of fairways, greens and tees from Google Earth, or similar aerial map providers. They of course still have appeal, but ‘WaterMaps’, as they’ve been named, are very different – a combination of digital watercolour brush techniques and drone-derived digital terrain models.

Joe’s official course artwork always begins with a bespoke and comprehensive aerial survey which gives Joe exactly the assets he needs. Sam Cooper, a fellow Hoylake member, has been perfecting these course surveys over the last couple of years whilst completing (as restrictions allow!) his ‘Links On the Road’ tour. Rather than a simple fly-over, Sam conducts a golf architecture-grade survey which results in, among many other things, an orthomosaic – thousands of overlapping photos, which are then merged into a huge, ultra-high-resolution master image.

This source material provides the foundations upon which Joe can build his product catalogue.

Modern Golf Art Portfolio

Original WaterMaps

The original ‘WaterMap’ print was the first evolution of Joe’s golf art, where he digitally paints with watercolour brushwork techniques onto the orthomosaic and terrain model composite. The resulting artwork features a level of detail, depth and complexity that no average commissioned oil or watercolour painting ever could. What’s more, its modern aesthetic has a much broader appeal. Multiple variations of the WaterMaps can be produced, featuring a full course, individual holes or a compilation of holes.

3D WaterMaps

As both Joe and Sam perfected their skills, Joe started to further experiment with the 3D terrain data, which has resulted in a new WaterMap style. Whilst the print itself is flat, the 3D effect is so real, you’ll want to get up close just to check. The look of these new maps is quite different from the original, in that much more of the surrounding terrain is included. This lets Joe showcase the course in a different, more contextual way. Printed mounts are an integral part of these variants, which truly showcase the shadows and depth of the landscape. For examples, see Sweetens Cove 3D WaterMap or St Enodoc Golf Club.

Physical 3D Models

Launching soon! Physical 3D models of individual golf holes and full courses are in the final stages of development, so watch this space. There is simply nothing currently available that comes close to rivalling this exciting new product. Imagine being able to actually hold your favourite hole in the palm of your hand, analyse every contour and proudly place it on your desk, shelf or, for the true fan, your bedside table. Joe is currently in discussions with clubs to produce full-colour 3D relief model installations of entire courses – exciting stuff!

3D Digital Course Tours

For clubs wanting to offer something truly spectacular to members and prospective customers, the same source material is also used to produce fully interactive 3D course tours – each one individually tailored to include the information a club would like to see on each hole – architectural history, yardages, facts – endless possibilities. These course tours can be seamlessly integrated into clubs’ websites with minimal setup. See Joe’s 3D course tour of Silloth on Solway Golf Club.

We’ve no doubt that this is just the beginning of Joe’s creative journey. Watch this space to see what happens next.

Join The Modern Golf Art Revolution

Evalu18 is the exclusive retail partner for Joe’s artworks – view his collection.

For more information about the full range of services Joe offers, visit his website.

The Open Rota

16th February 2021/0 Comments/in Random /by

The Open Rota is a list of golf clubs that are considered to be in the running to be chosen as venues for future Open Championships. An unofficial list, it is an elite collection of world-class links that will forever be part of the fabric of the game of golf.

The Open Championship has been contested 148 times with 14 golf courses used as venues. To date, the Open has been hosted 96 times in Scotland, 50 times in England, and twice in Northern Ireland. No golf course in Wales or the Republic of Ireland has ever been an Open venue.

The Current Open Rota

There are 10 courses that are considered to be on the Open Rota. The number of Opens hosted is presented in brackets:

St Andrews Old Course (29) (Played 2015/ Planned 2022)
Muirfield (HCEG) (16) (Played 2013)
Royal St George’s Golf Club (14) (Played 2011/ Planned 2021)
Royal Liverpool Golf Club (Hoylake) (12) (Played 2014/ Planned 2023)
Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club (11) (Played 2012)
Royal Birkdale Golf Club (10) (Played 2017)
Royal Troon Golf Club (9) (Played 2016/ Planned 2024)
Carnoustie Golf Links (8) (Played 2018)
Royal Portrush Golf Club (2) (Played 2019/ Planned 2025)
Trump Turnberry (Ailsa Championship Course) (4)(Played 2009)*

* The R&A made a statement that The Open would not return to Turnberry for the foreseeable but did stop short of saying it would never return.

The iconic clubhouse at Trump Turnberry which is on the Open Rota.

If and when Turnberry hosts an Open is yet to be seen. Photo Credit: Kevin Murray

Former Venues In The Open Rota

The 4 golf courses which have been previously hosted The Open, but are not currently considered to be part of the Open Rota, are:

Prestwick Golf Club (Old Prestwick) (24)
Musselburgh Links (6)
Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club (2)
Princes Golf Club (1)

The Open Rota

How many Open Rota venues have you played? It is an elite list and collection of courses that rival any in the world. Perhaps a more intriguing question is: If you were to add any courses to The Open Rota, which would they be and why? The obvious answer is Portmarnock. Which others would you want to see?

Future Open Venues

The 150th will be played at St Andrews in 2022, 151st at Royal Liverpool Golf Club (Hoylake) in 2023, and the 152nd Open will be hosted by Royal Troon Golf Club in 2024. The Open heads back to Royal Portrush in 2025 for the 153rd Open.

Further Viewing

Spend some time on the R&A’s Open Championship website. You’ll see short films, documentaries from the 1970s until the present day. The Open is truly golf’s championship and the chance to play any course that has been or is on the Open Rota should never be missed!

Header Photo Jason Livy

Bunkerless Golf Courses

8th February 2021/0 Comments/in Random /by

Bunkerless golf courses * capture the attention of keen golf course architecture enthusiasts. Perhaps it is the irony of great golf without a design element considered to be integral to both golf course design and strategy. Nowhere are they better presented than in England.

* As a caveat, in early golf writing bunkers were often qualified by adjectives. For example, cop-bunkers, sand bunkers or grassed bunkers. Through the passage of time, bunkers have become synonymous with sand-filled hollows of various descriptions.

Bunkerless Golf Courses in England

England is in a league of its own when it comes to great examples of such designs. Amongst them are Berkhamsted Golf Club, Kington Golf Club, Minchinhampton Golf Club, Piltdown Golf Club, Painswick Golf Club, Welshpool Golf Club, West Manmouthsire & Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club.

Common Land & Golf

A significant factor between most of these courses is they are found on common ground. For those not familiar with this term, common land in England is ground over which other people have certain rights. Of interest, these permissions have created a symbiotic relationship with the land, its usage and the golf course architecture.

Pasturage

The most widespread right for commoners is pasturage, allowing persons to pasture cattle, horses, sheep, lamas and other livestock. Today at Minchinhampton Old, you need to play through all manner of livestock as seen in the photo below. Local rules are in place to deal with hoof marks and other ‘material concerns’ associated with the beasts.

Livestock on the common land bunkerless golf course at Minch Old.

Evalu18 Jasper Miners

Estover

Other rights afforded to commoners have affected not only the pursuit of golf but also golf course design. For example, estover rights allow commoners to take wood and use it for making implements, fences and firewood. Tree management was integral to the use of the land, albeit for survival rather than the pursuit of a sport. With the exception of Berkhamsted and Royal Ashdown Forest, the other courses mentioned are not fettered with trees and the subsequent frustrations that result.

Common in the Soil

Another example is that of ‘Common in the Soil’. This right allowed commoners to extract sand, gravel, marl, stones, lime and other minerals. The remaining quarries and pits have been used to good effect as hazards and green sites as seen in the photo below of Minchinhampton Old. In fact, Hebert Fowler and James Braid used these manmade features in their design at Yelverton Golf Club.

The old quarry used as a hazard at the at a bunkerless golf course.

Evalu18 Jasper Miners

Planning Restrictions & Bunkerless Golf Courses

Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club is bunkerless not because it is common land but because the Ashdown Forest is protected from any alterations made by man. The course needed to be built without any need or reliance on artificiality, bunkers included. What could have been considered a restraint worked in the club’s favour as the course needed to make use of what nature offered? In this case, its weakness has become its strength.

The 5th and 6th greens at Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club.

Kevin Murray

Maintenance & Bunkerless Golf Courses

Piltdown Golf Club was designed and built with sand bunkers. During WW1, maintenance budgets and manpower were limited so the bunkers were allowed to go to grass and replaced with heather banks. Since then, with reduced maintenance costs, no one seems to have missed them…

A photo of the 15th hole at Piltdown GC.

Kevin Murray

Bunkerless Golf Courses & Architecture

The aforementioned golf courses exist in this form for a variety of reasons. What is for certain is most individuals playing them would not even notice they are missing one of golf’s most beloved hallmarks unless it was pointed out. That begs the questions: Are bunkers really needed? Is it a design element that is overlooked?

Bunkers – Are they even needed?

The answer to the question is ‘No’, as is proven by the six courses previously mentioned. It is, however, an entirely different question to ask if the courses would be improved if they did have bunkers. Golf in its simplest form requires a ball, stick and hole. In the modern age, teeing grounds, putting greens and fairways would be considered essential, if not elementary. It must be said though that for golf to be truly engaging, topography or ground contours assist greatly.

Golden Age Golf Course Architecture Principles

Alister MacKenzie’s 7th principle of golf course architecture states: ‘The course should have beautiful surroundings, and all the artificial features should have so natural an appearance that a stranger is unable to distinguish them from nature itself.’ It is interesting that bunkers themselves mimicking seaside dunes have become ‘naturalised’ elements of inland golf. I guess this is exactly what Alister was alluding to. When introduced, artificial features should ‘look’ natural. Reading between the lines, he wasn’t saying that artificial features don’t have a place but should appear as though they do and have occurred naturally.

Is necessity the mother of invention?

When you can rely upon exciting topography, epic views and have the equipment and budget to literally make and move mountains, the tendency could easily be to simply do so. Perhaps being handcuffed by not being able to add bunkers makes the architect work harder to make the most of what he has. When restrictions are imposed, the metal of the architect is really put to the test. When you can hide behind smoke and mirrors, it would take a motivated individual to still create the current iteration even if bunkers would have been in his or her arsenal.

Perhaps this is why each of these bunkerless golf courses stands out amongst its peers. Kington Golf Club is one of the best golf courses in England. Minchinhampton Old provides outstanding value for money and would be shown more love if it the average golfer wasn’t caught up with the green speed and cross-hatch mowing lines. Painswick Golf Club is just one of 18 golf courses in all of the UK & Ireland which made Tom Doak’s Gourmet Choice. The remaining could equally be given the same plaudits.

Bunkerless Golf Courses Summary

When you consider the benefits of bunkerless golf courses, does it seem logical that we will see more of them? One would think so! They’re unique, different and exciting. They offer a potential reduction in maintenance costs – depending on what is used in place of them. There is of course no perfect solution as any element of a golf course needs to be maintained. Grassed hollows present a unique challenge and, depending on the local circumstances, a lot of variety in construction and design.

Just as exciting is the prospect of seeing more above-ground features. Brian Schneider and Blake Conant have done exactly that at Llanerch CC in PA, USA. Reminiscent of the above-ground features found at Walton Heath, could this be the watershed moment for fewer bunkers and more above-ground features? Cyclical, some of golf’s most iconic designs include these features, such as the Dell and Klondyke at Lahinch. If it worked then and have stood the test of time, the principles therein must provide the basis for design moving forward.

In addition, those who move the needle with regards to golf course design have successfully pulled it off. The popular Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw design at Bandon Dunes known as the Sheep Ranch has received rave reviews. Make no mistake, when those at the forefront of the industry create a wake, it allows the rest to follow behind. A case and point approach calms the nerves of most more than investing in being the first to break new ground.

We will have to wait and see, but for some courses, fewer bunkers may be a fine solution. In any event, this just may be the genesis of a movement in golf course design and architecture. The famed golf course architect, Robert Hunter wrote when surveying JF Abercromby‘s Addington, ‘These undulations indicate the possibility of having one day a golf course so moulded that sand bunkers may be dispensed with.’ Maybe that day has now come?

Golf Gifts

5th February 2021/0 Comments/in Random /by

Golf gifts are a tricky thing to get right. Whilst your loved one may thank you for the golf ball monogrammer, it’ll end up on eBay as soon as they get the chance. Evalu18 is here to help you navigate the minefield that is golf gift-giving for Father’s Day, Christmas, and every occasion in between. Evalu18 presents the ultimate golf gift guide.

Buy These Golf Gifts

The best golf gifts are both practical and have longevity. Golf balls get lost, most practice aids don’t work and unless you are buying gag gifts, most other options fall flat.

Golf Gifts For The Golfer With Everything

Struggling to find the perfect golf gift for the serious golfer who has it all? Why not get him the one thing he doesn’t have yet – a made to measure putter from The Putter Tailor? An Edel EAS Putter or set of Edel SMS Wedges that have been custom-fit is the ultimate gift. The experience is akin to a bespoke Savile Row suit fitting and each handcrafted putter is never off the peg. A fitting or executive service is available for the more discerning.

Give the Gift of Golf

The one thing golfers like to do more than anything else? Play golf. Why not get them a game on a course they’ve always wanted to see? Perhaps a green fee to their dream course or contribution towards it?

Any course on the Top 100 Golf Courses in the World Rankings would be appreciated. If you want to cast the net a little wider, check out our Bucket List Collection. What to keep their partner happy as well? The Total Package Collection with identify venues that have pursuits for all tastes.

Golf Gifts That Keep Giving

The newsstands are full of golf magazines that are filled with hints and tips that promise extra distance, slice cures, and the latest equipment. For quality golf journalism and long-form writing, your best bet is independent golf titles. The best bit? They come at various intervals throughout the year!

There are a few options – for some homegrown content, The Links Diary is a Scottish golf magazine and the latest addition to the craft magazine movement. One of the best-written magazines with contributions from world-class journalists is McKellar Magazine. Catalogue 18 is a coffee table magazine that is unique and full of visual stimulation. Caddie Magazine is a personal favourite – Australia-based, it offers a twist and flair unseen in any other offerings. Lastly, the magazine that started the revolution – Golfers Journal. If you want to show the golfer on your list that you care, get them a subscription or back catalogue of these epic magazines.

Golf Course Architecture Books

Golf course architecture is a passion of many and unknown to even more. There is a growing awareness of the topic and the golfer on your list is keen, these will be of interest. If they are just beginning on the journey down this rabbit warren, our Beginners Guide will get them going. If you know they have an interest already, getting them a copy of any one of these golf course architecture books won’t go amiss. Finally, if you want to sort them out on a budget, you can do so with digital copies.

Ultimate Golf Gifts

Golf Art

Modern golf art takes many forms. Whether it’s fine art or photography, Shop.Evalu18.com has got the best options available. These museum-grade fine art pieces represent great value for money as golf gifts that you won’t find anywhere else.

Digital Watercolours

Joe Mcdonnell has established himself as an innovative and exciting artist that is pushing the boundaries of golf art. A keen golfer, artist, historian, and golf course architecture student puts him at the forefront of the modern golf art movement.

Golf Course Photography

Evalu18 has partnered with world-renowned golf course photographers such as Kevin Murray, Gary Lisbon, and Kevin Markham. Up and coming photographers, such as Adam Toth, are creating a buzz with a new take on best practice. These photos make incredible golf gifts.

Oil Paintings

Michael Miller and Simon Dalby have worked with Evalu18 to make some of their most profound works available for purchase as golf gifts. A more traditional product, they are perfectly suitable for even the most refined spaces.

Harry Rountree Watercolours

Ultimate golf gifts for golf historians and Bernard Darwin fans, these digitally remastered watercolours from the book, Golf Courses of the British Isles, are a very rare gift that offers tremendous value for money.

Don’t Buy These Golf Gifts

We’re not telling you how to spend you’re hard-earned dosh, but there is a reason why No Laying Up holds a competition every year for the worst golf presents on Boxing Day. What are the perennial winners? Practice Aids, gimmicks, and cheap golf equipment.

Green Light Golf Gifts

Golf is a highly personal endeavor and unless you know exactly what kit the golfer on your list games, steer clear. There are exceptions to the rule. For example, Titleist Pro V1 and Titleist Pro V1-X golf balls will always be looked on favorably. They are the gold standard and you can’t go wrong even if it’s not their preferred ball. The age-old adage is ‘you get what you pay for.’ This is especially true with golf gear.

Golf Art

4th February 2021/in Random /by

Walnut-framed oil paintings are great in the smoking rooms of legendary clubhouses, but if you’re after modern golf art – we’ve got you covered! Evalu18 presents fine golf art for the modern home or workspace.

MODERN GOLF ART

GOLF COURSE MAPS

Digital Watercolours by Joe Mcdonnell

Not since Dr Alister MacKenzie has there been a map like this. Modern in concept and design, own a piece of The Old Course or even the whole course! Prolific, his portfolio is continually improving and growing.

GOLF COURSE PHOTOGRAPHY

Golf Course Photographer Kevin Murray

World renowned photographer Kevin Murray has curated a bespoke collection of unique photographs from his back catalogue exclusive to Evalu18.

Golf Course Photographer Adam Toth

Canadian Adam Toth is Dublin-based and gaining considerable attention as an aspiring professional photographer. His unique style is a modern take on more traditional golf photography. Take a look at his work on The Shop.

OIL PAINTINGS

Michael Miller

World-renowned, fine art oil painter, Michael Miller is best known for his illustrations in Geoff Shackelford’s many golf course history and golf course architecture books. His prints are now available exclusively to Evalu18.

GOLF ART WATERCOLOURS

Harry Rountree Golf Course Watercolours

One of golf’s greatest artists is Harry Rountree. His collection of watercolours from Bernard Darwin’s Golf Courses of the British Isles is one of the most iconic in the history of the game. These have now been digitally remastered and are available as fine art giclee prints on Shop.Evalu18.com.

We are continually adding and refining the selection of artists and products in the shop. Follow us on social media or sign up for our newsletter to stay informed! We will never spam you and only contact you when we truly have exciting offers we know you’ll appreciate.

Template Holes

4th February 2021/0 Comments/in Random /by

Template Holes have become increasingly popular and an awareness of them are on many golfer’s radars. Much of the interest is due to a resurgence in the appreciation of CB Macdonald’s & Seth Raynor’s golf course designs, especially at National Golf Links of America (NGLA).

Interestingly, the American template holes often get more attention than the originals. Below, we look at the originals found in England and Scotland.

CB Macdonald’s Template Holes & The Originals

Template Holes – Sahara

2nd National Golf Links of America & 3rd Royal St George’s Golf Club

CB Macdonald admits the hole is not a replica but rather the NGLA template hole embodies the underlying design principle. The design principle, or identifiable characteristic, is a golfer is rewarded for successfully carrying an immense bunker after which the ball can run to the green. At Sandwich, the carry is not over a bunker but a waste area.

Template Holes – Alps

3rd National Golf Links of America & 17th Prestwick Golf Club

The Alps is an Old Tom Morris original design (possibly altered imperceptibly by James Braid) and is the oldest single golf hole in Open Championship Golf. Identifiable characteristics include a blind approach over hidden bunkers to a punchbowl green. The approach must be carried rather than ran in.

The massive Sahara bunker at Prestwick Golf Club. The basis for the Alps Template Holes.

Mark Alexander

Template Holes – Redan

4th National Golf Links of America & 15th North Berwick Golf Club

The most popular of all templates, but what exactly is it? “Take a narrow tableland, tilt it a little from right to left, dig a deep bunker on the front side, approach it diagonally, and you have the Redan.” – CB Macdonald. The green falls away sharply from the player with a terrifying bunker guarding a direct line. Interestingly, a redan is not solely a golfing term. It can also refer to an arrow or V-shaped fortification with banks forming part of the protection. The approach must be made from the back or opening of the V. The original falls away from right to left, with the V pointing left. A reverse Redan would mirror these same elements but in reverse.

Template Holes – Short

6th National Golf Links of America & 4th Royal West Norfolk Golf Club

It’s all in the name. A short hole with disastrous consequences for failing to reach the putting surface. The original 5th is now the 4th and is the iconic showstopper at Brancaster. Sleepers line the elevated putting surface where the cup is obscured from view. Many of the famous green sites stateside feature a square or horseshoe shape along with a ‘thumbprint’ contour on the putting surface.

Template Holes – Road

7th National Golf Links of America & 17th St Andrews Old Course

Harold Hilton wrote: “No hole in existence has been the innocent cause of so many opprobrious epithets and language of so lurid a hue as the Road Hole.” Why the sentiments? The identifiable characteristics include a dogleg and hazard which needs to be carried at the apex. The original now features a hotel and replica drying sheds. Modern templates have used trees, bunkers or waste areas in lieu of a hotel at the apex. Near the green is usually a severe single bunker and road-hugging one side. CB Macdonald used a bunker on the rear of his Road template to simulate the original road.

Template Holes – Bottle

8th National Golf Links of America & 12th Sunningdale Golf Club

A Willie Park Jr hole with a slight alteration of the green by Harry Colt. The identifiable characteristic here is an extreme narrowing of the fairway as you approach the hole. The neck can be restricted by a reduction in width, hazard, or some other feature.

Template Holes – Long

9th National Golf Links of America & 14th St Andrews Old Course

Considered to be one of the greatest golf holes in existence, identifiable characteristics include a three-shot hole with multiple routes from tee to green. Alister MacKenzie identified 4 routes available to the player in his book The Spirit of St Andrews. Later, Bobby Jones found another route by playing long thus leaving himself an uphill shot to the pin.

Template Holes – Cape

14th National Golf Links of America & 1st Machrihanish Golf Club

Supposedly the best opening hole in golf, the first at Machrihanish could be called a Cape. There are two identifiable characteristics. Firstly, a bite off as much as you can chew tee shot. (As a well-known example, take Herbert Fowler’s 18th at Pebble Beach Golf Links) Secondly, a green precariously situated near the water’s edge. The opening hole at Machrihanish isn’t a true Cape as per CB Macdonald’s iteration and improvement stateside.

Template Holes – Leven

17th National Golf Links of America & 16th Lundin Links

Originally, 18 holes were shared between the towns of Leven and Lundin called Innerleven Links. It was the 7th hole on this course that inspired CB Macdonald. After the split, James Braid redesigned the course and the Leven hole became the 16th on Lundin Links known as Trows. Leven (Trows) is an Old Tom Morris original. Identifiable characteristics include a diagonal hazard across the fairway and a green obscured from view from the tee. Visibility is incrementally rewarded for taking on the risk provided by the hazards.

Other Classic Template Holes*

*These classic golf holes were identified in the book Classic Golf Hole Design by Robert Muir Graves and Geoffrey Cornish.

Punchbowl Template Hole

4th Royal Cinque Ports & 9th Royal Liverpool Golf Club

Identifiable characteristics include a depression or “sunken green” as per AW Tillinghast’s description. These natural sites are quite common on links land and the free-draining soil allows for their use as green sites. Some are below ground level on all four sides!

Eden Template Hole

11th St Andrews Old Course

An Old Tom Morris original, this short par 3 features an elevated green susceptible to the wind. The identifiable characteristics include severe bunkers fronting the green and hazards behind replicating the original Hill and Strath bunkers and shoreline of the Eden estuary. Any shot that carry the green are caught by the shoreline or backing hazard.

Dell Template Hole

6th at Lahinch Golf Club

Identifiable characteristics include a blind tee short to a completely hidden green site. Popular in the UK and Ireland, most Dell templates have been watered down due to the potential for litigation or a growing aversion to blind shots.

Cardinal Template Hole

3rd Prestwick Golf Club

The hole itself, probably an Old Tom creation, is dubbed Cardinal. (Possible alterations by James Braid in 1918 and 1930) However, the bunker of the same name is what has gained notoriety. Identifiable characteristics include a double dogleg and severe hazards. The original has out of bounds down the right side and severe bunkers midway through the hole.

Maiden Template Hole

6th at Royal St George’s Golf Club (No Longer Exists)

Similar to a Dell. The original from 1887 was completely blind over the largest dune in Championship golf. The original tee was located on the left side of the current 5th fairway. By 1910, the tee placement was moved so the shot needed to carry a smaller dune. In the 1930s the tee was again moved, removing all blindness, to its current position. Take a couple of minutes to read Jason Livy’s excellent article along with superb photography of The Maiden.

Postage Stamp Template Hole

8th at Royal Troon

Known by its relation in size to its namesake. The identifiable characteristic is a very small green… no larger than a postage stamp! While the green size is easily replicated, what makes the original so unique is the constant shifting of the wind which seems to exist around the hole. Its

Littlestone Template Hole

16th at Littlestone Golf Club

The identifiable characteristic for CB Macdonald was a dogleg left. Playing along the dogleg it would be a three-shot hole. Played directly to an alternate fairway would allow a player to cut the corner and get home in two shots.

Template Holes Summary

A heightened awareness of template holes and their characteristics can only be a good thing for golf and golf course architecture. Perhaps as the rising tide of awareness swells, the originals will again become as revered as the holes they inspired.

Dundonald Links – West Coast Golf – Scotland

Royal Troon Old Course – Scotland’s West Coast

Western Gailes Golf Club

Shiskine Golf & Tennis Club

Machrihanish Dunes

Machrihanish Golf Club

Dunaverty Golf Club

Carradale Golf Club

The Machrie

Traigh Golf Course

Iona Golf Course

Tobermory Golf Club

Isle of Barra Golf Club

Askernish Golf Club

Isle of Harris Golf Club

Gairloch Golf Club

Durness Golf Club

Prestwick Golf Club

Where is Trump Turnberry?

Inspired by West Coast Golf – Scotland?

Building a Half Set

Ditch the Clubs You Don’t Use

Use Your Yardages To Lose More

Be Honest With Yourself to Lose The Rest

Building a Half Set Summary

Building a Half Set – Iron Options

Evens Half Set

Odds Half Set

Buy a Half Set

Choose Your Loft Intervals

Embracing the Half Set Movement

Less Than 14 <14

Half Set Sunday Bags & Half Set Pencil Bags

Making the Transition to a Half Set

Half Set & Wedge Sets

Half Set & Drivers, Fairways & Hybrids

Callaway Half Sets

Half Set Issues

Half Set Opportunities

Benefits of a Half Set

Walking

Different & Forward Tees

Game Formats

What is Golf Course Architecture?

Architect -What’s In a Word?

Golf Course Architecture – Developing the Art

No Longer a Jack of All Trades

So then… What is Golf Course Architecture?

Taste and Golf Course Architecture

More on the Topic of Golf Course Architecture

The Golf Courses of the British Isles

The Early Life Harry Rountree

Harry Rountree in London

Harry Rountree’s Legacy

The Modern Golf Art Revolution

St Andrews Old Course WaterMap

Joe McDonnell’s Process

Modern Golf Art Portfolio

Original WaterMaps

3D WaterMaps

Physical 3D Models

3D Digital Course Tours

Join The Modern Golf Art Revolution

The Current Open Rota

Former Venues In The Open Rota

The Open Rota

Future Open Venues

Further Viewing

Bunkerless Golf Courses in England

Common Land & Golf

Pasturage

Estover

Common in the Soil

Planning Restrictions & Bunkerless Golf Courses

Maintenance & Bunkerless Golf Courses

Bunkerless Golf Courses & Architecture

Bunkers – Are they even needed?

Golden Age Golf Course Architecture Principles

Is necessity the mother of invention?

Bunkerless Golf Courses Summary