MacGregor persimmon woods are amongst the most sought-after persimmon woods in the world of golf today. Most would argue that 1949 saw the beginning of the golden age of oil-hardened, old-growth, persimmon woods. Whilst 1949 ushered in the infamous LFF model, as early as 1941, Jumbo models were available with only the most astute collector being able to distinguish between the models from the early 1940s and late 1940s.
My interest in MacGregor persimmon woods is particularly jumbo or deep-faced driver models from 1949 to 1955 and Wood Brothers (Wood Bros) Texas Golf Company (Texas Golf Co) solid persimmon woods of the 1980s and early 1990s. In 1956, MacGregor widened the face of the woods by 1/2″ and ‘King-Sized’ the Eye-O-Matic insert. The V shape on the crown was also updated with a diamond-shaped MacGregor icon in place of the MT Art-Deco stamp. With hindsight, the Super Eye-O-Matic inserts weren’t as super as the previous generations.
Desirable Aspects of MacGregor Persimmon Woods
What to look for? The holy grail of all persimmon woods is a close, U-shaped grain structure without any added weight in the form of lead. Solid blocks are rare even from reputable manufacturers like MacGregor. If the block is solid and a sought-after line and product model, it may well be worth investing in and potentially restoring. Original, unfinished heads are extremely rare… finding one with stampings intact along with ‘recorded’ numbers (usually found on the neck or rear of the hosel) are other prime indicators of a special find.
If you have MacGregor persimmon woods you would like identified, please feel free to reach out. If you want to know more or have MacGregor persimmon woods to sell, please feel free to contact me using the form on our Contact Us page.
Understanding MacGregor Product Lines and Model Numbers
Company > MacGregor
Family > Tourney Woods (Professional)
Product Line > Tommy Armour, Jimmy Demaret, Toney Penna, Byron Nelson, MT Tourney, George Bayer etc.
Model > 693, 653, MT09, LFF, WW, etc.
MacGregor Golf History – Crib Notes
Clarence Rickey can be credited with the rise of MacGregor Golf. In the mid-1930s, as an officer at Medinah Country Club, he hired Tommy Armour as the club’s professional. His assistant was none other than Toney Penna. Toney Penna would sign professionals Ben Hogan, Byron Nelson and Jimmy Demaret as Advisory Staff in 1938. They pioneered the use of oil hardening, face inserts, and bulge and roll on wood faces. They were also the first manufacturer to offer rubber and corded rubber grips instead of leather. By the 1950s, professional golf was dominated by MacGregor and it has a foothold in the amateur game with the likes of Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer using their kit to win Amateur Championships. With hindsight, the golden age of persimmon woods was no doubt the early 1950s MacGregor MT Tourney Eye-O-Matic’s.
1941 MacGregor Persimmon Woods – Tommy Armour Tourneys
The Tourney lineup was manufactured based on the characteristics and specifications of their personal use clubs. The tagline was: ‘The Clubs the Pros Play’. Four woods were offered, sold as a set of 3 or 4: Driver, Brassie, Spoon and 4-wood. All of the Tommy Armour Tourney Woods in 1941 were designed to set up square, using True-Soled technology.
MacGregor Persimmon Woods – Tommy Armour Tourney Model Overview
- T Models – Round, compact heads
- H Models – ‘Hogan’ Extra deep heads.
- D Models – ‘Demaret’ Pear-shaped heads
- J Models – Jumbo
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney T Model Characteristics
- Ebony finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 5 screw insert
- Natural finished face
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
- The TWS was the standard model while the TSS featured the pro-only, low trajectory, True Temper Hy Action shaft
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney H ‘Hogan’ Model Characteristics
- Mahogany finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 5 screw insert
- Natural finished face
- Deeper face than T or D model
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
- The HWS was the standard model and HH model was teardrop or Heddon shaped.
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney D ‘Demaret’ Model
- Mahogany finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 5 screw insert
- Natural finished face
- Pear-shaped
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
- The DWC had a medium stiff shaft and DLM had a Senior flex shaft
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney J ‘Jumbo’ Model
- Ebony finish
- One-half inch deeper than the H Hogan model
- 13* or Brassie loft
- Red, vulcanised fibre 5 screw insert
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
- The BJD had a stiff shaft and the BJM had a medium stiff shaft
1942 Armour, Demaret & Penna
A year later, Tommy Armour Tourney Woods came in just two models. There was the H or Hogan model and the T or Tourney Armour model. Jimmy Demaret had his own model with 3 different True Temper shaft options. Another new line was the Toney Penna Tourney Wood.
1942 MacGregor Persimmon Wood Model Lineup
- T Models – ‘Tommy’ Round, compact heads
- H Models – ‘Hogan’ Extra deep heads.
- Jimmy Demaret – ‘Demaret’ Large pear-shaped heads
- Toney Penna Tourney Wood – Toney Penna’s personal wood
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney T Model Characteristics
- Ebony finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 5 screw insert
- Natural finished face
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney H ‘Hogan’ Model Characteristics
- Lustrous hand-polished mahogany finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 5 screw insert
- Natural finished face
- Deeper face than the T model
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
MacGregor Jimmy Demaret Tourney Woods
- Mahogany finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 5 screw insert
- Large pear-shaped
- Extra deep face as per Tommy Armour H Model
- Jimmy Demaret crown stamp
MacGregor Toney Penna Tourney Woods
- Ebony finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 5 screw insert
- Large pear-shaped
- Toney Penna crown stamp
1949 Armour, Nelson & Penna Persimmon Drivers & Fairway Woods
Between 1943 and 1948, no catalogues were produced although some woods were manufactured. In 1949, Tommy Armour Tourney Woods came in three models: the 69, 65 and 108. The 108 was a deep-faced 69 model. Byron Nelson Tourney Woods debuted with a single Pro 40 model. Toney Penna Tourney Woods came in 2 models: the Pro 40 and the LFF which was a deep-faced variation of the Pro 40 model.
MacGregor Persimmon Woods – Tommy Armour Tourney Model Overview
- Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 65 & 69 Models (653T, 693T, 693, 695T, and 108T)
- Toney Penna Tourney Wood Pro 40 Model & LFF Pro 40
- Byron Nelson Tourney Wood Pro 40 Model
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 65 (653T Model)
- Ebony finish
- Natural face
- Red, vulcanised fibre 4 screw insert
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 69 (693T, 695T, 693, and 108T Models)
- Mahogany finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 4 screw insert
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
- Deep faced
- 693T – 43″ with True Temper NWDS shaft with corded rubber grip
- 693 – 43″ with leather grip, not corded rubber
- 695T – same as 693T but with 42 1/2″ shaft and corded rubber grip
- 108T – a 1 3/4″ deep-faced 69 series driver at 43″ and sporting a corded rubber grip
It appears the 69 (693T, 693 and 695T) was the replacement for the deep-faced H or Hogan MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney Wood.
MacGregor Byron Nelson Tourney Wood Pro 40 (403T, 405T and 403H Models)
- Black ebony finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 4 screw insert
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
- ‘Fairly’ deep faced
- 403T – 43″ with True Temper NWDS shaft with corded rubber grip
- 405T – same as 693T but with 42 1/2″ shaft and corded rubber grip
- 403H – Same as the Pro 40 (403T) but featured the True Temper Hy-Action shaft, mahogany finish and leather grip
MacGregor Toney Penna Tourney Wood Pro 40 (403PT & 106T)
- Black ebony finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 4 screw insert
- Toney Penna crown stamp
- 403PT – A Pro 40 Model persimmon head with 43″ True Temper TW shaft and cord-rubber grip
- 106T – aka Toney Penna LFF Model Driver – a 403PT spec’d driver with 1 3/4″ deep face
1950 MacGregor Tommy Armour, Toney Penna, Byron Nelson, and MT Tourney Persimmon Woods
By 1950, the 3 product lines from 1949 continued with the addition of the famed MT line. The distinctive MT Crown marking with Art-Deco design queues quickly became iconic and was the first shift away from a cursive signature. The MT Tourney woods were oil hardened as were all persimmon wood heads in the Tourney family but were specially selected for grain structure. The prices of all the Tourney Woods were set at £60 across all families.
MacGregor Persimmon Woods – Tourney Model Overview
- Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 65 & 69 Models (653T, 653, 655T, 655, 693T, 693) It is important to note the deep-faced 108T was dropped.
- Toney Penna Tourney Wood Pro 40 Model (403PT) It is important to note the LFF Pro 40 was dropped.
- Byron Nelson Tourney Wood Pro 40 Model (403T)
- MT Tourney 69 Model (M43T, M43, M33T, M33, M35T, M35) and a new M09T deep-faced driver head.
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 65 (653T, 653, 655T, and 655 Model)
- Ebony finish
- Natural face
- Red, vulcanised fibre 4 screw insert
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 69 (693T, and 693 Models)
- Mahogany finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 4 screw insert
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
- Deep faced
MacGregor Toney Penna Tourney Wood Pro 40 (403PT)
- Black ebony finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 4 screw insert
- Toney Penna crown stamp
MacGregor Byron Nelson Tourney Wood Pro 40 (403T Models)
- Black ebony finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre 4 screw insert
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
- ‘Fairly’ deep faced
MacGregor MT Tourney Woods (M09T, M43T, M43, M33T, M33, M35T, M35)
- M09T – Black ebony finish with red, vulcanised fibre 4 screw insert, and the iconic MT crown stamp.
- M43T & M43 – The driver was a deep-faced 69 model and fairway woods were Pro 40 models with redwood finish and red vulcanised fibre, 4 screw insert
- M33T & M33 – Same as the M43 but with a black ebony finish and different True Temper shaft.
- M35 & M35T – Same as the M33 but with 42 1/2 shaft.
1951 MacGregor Tommy Armour and MT Tourney Persimmon Woods
The Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 655T and 655 variants were thinned out. The Toney Penna Tourney Wood line was dropped in 1951. The Byron Nelson 663BP was a new shape which removed the duplication of the Pro 40 head across the Toney Penna and Byron Nelson lines. It is also worth noting that they weren’t marketed as a Tourney Wood and were priced at a 25% discount of RRP compared to the Tommy Armour and MT Tourney lines.
MacGregor Persimmon Woods – Tourney Model Overview
- Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 65 & 69 Models (653T, 653, 693T, 693) It is important to note the 655T & 655 models were dropped.
- MT Tourney 69 Model (M43T, M43, M33T, M33, M35T, M35, and M09T, M09)
1952 MacGregor Tommy Armour and MT Tourney Persimmon Woods
The foundation was laid for the peak of MacGregor Tourney Woods in 1952. The iconic Eye-O-Matic insert was introduced with five screws but we would have to wait until 1953 to see six screws. The Tourney Wood lines were again composed of Tommy Armour and MT Tourney Models. The four-screw face insert changed from a diamond formation to a five-screw cross formation on the MT Tourney models whilst the Tommy Armour models retained the diamond formation.
MacGregor Persimmon Woods – Tourney Model Overview
- Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 65 & 69 Models (653T, 653, 693T, 693) It is important to note the 655T & 655 models were dropped.
- MT Tourney 69 Model (M43T, M43, M33T, M33, M35T, M35, and M09T, M09)
MacGregor Persimmon Woods – MT Tourney Model Overview
- MT Tourney M85TW – The classic 69 model was used for the driver head with the Pro 40 head used in the fairways. Mahogany finish with white-black-white Eye-O-Matic five screw, cross formation insert. The grip was red and 43″ in length.
- MT Tourney M85W – Exactly the same as the M85TW but with a red leather grip.
- MT Tourney M75TW – The return of the Pro 40 head in black ebony with a white-red-white red Eye-O-Matic insert with a five-screw cross pattern. Coming in at 43″ and with a red rubber grip.
- MT Tourney M75W – Exactly the same as the M75TW but with a red leather grip.
- MT Tourney M70TW – Same as the M75TW but 42 1/2″
- MT Tourney M70W – Same as the M75W but 42 1/2″
- MT Tourney M09T LFF – Deep-faced jumbo driver. Black ebony glaze with a five-screw, red-white-white Eye-O-Matic insert. 43″ with a red rubber grip.
- MT Tourney M09 LFF – Same as the M09T LFF but with leather grip.
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney Model Overview
- Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 65 & 69 Models (653T, 653, 693T, 693)
No material differences were made to the lineup from 1951 to 1952.
1953 MacGregor Tommy Armour and MT Tourney Persimmon Woods
Changes to both lineups and models and perhaps the greatest persimmon driver of all time was released in the MacGregor MT Tourney Mo9T and M09 with the advent of the six-screw Eye-O-Matic insert.
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney Model Overview
- Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 65 & 69 Models (945 TW, 945W, 653T, and 653)
The 653T and 653 were kept from 1951 and 1952. The 693T and 693 were renamed the 945TW and 945W. The traditional ebony finish for the 653 and the mahogony finish remained for the 693 (now the 945).
MacGregor MT Tourney Model Overview
- MT Tourney M85TW – The classic 69 model was used for the driver head with the Pro 40 head used in the fairways. Mahogany finish with white-black-white Eye-O-Matic six screw insert. The grip was red and 43″ in length.
- MT Tourney M85W – Exactly the same as the M85TW but with a red leather grip.
- MT Tourney M75TW – The return of the Pro 40 head in a coal-black glaze with a white-red-white Eye-O-Matic insert with a six-screw cross pattern. Coming in at 43″ and with a red rubber grip.
- MT Tourney M75W – Exactly the same as the M75TW but with a red leather grip.
- MT Tourney M70TW – Same as the M75TW but 42 1/2″
- MT Tourney M70W – Same as the M75W but 42 1/2″
- MT Tourney M65W – A shallow-faced model with a red glaze finish and six-screw white-red-white Eye-O-Matic insert.
- MT Tourney M55 – Deep blue glaze with six-screw, white-red-white Eye-O-Matic insert.
- MT Tourney M09T LFF – Deep-faced jumbo driver. Black ebony glaze with a white-red-white Eye-O-Matic insert. 43″ with a red rubber grip.
- MT Tourney M09 LFF – Same as the M09T LFF but with leather grip.
The model range remained the same with the one obvious upgrade of a single screw. The 1953 M09T LFF & Mo9 LFF are perhaps the greatest persimmon drivers ever made.
1954 MacGregor Tommy Armour, MT Tourney, and Re-Emergent Toney Penna Line
The MT Tourney and Tommy Armour lines remained unchanged for 1954. The biggest news was the Toney Penna line was re-introduced after being discontinued in 1951.
MacGregor Toney Penna Model Overview
There were two Toney Penna Models available for 1954: WW/ WWT and TP/ TPT. The TP and TPT were regular stock items but the WWT and WW were special orders.
- TPT and TP were duplicates of Toney Penna’s personal woods. The finish was a highly polished coal-black glaze with the six-screw, red-white-red, Eye-O-Matic insert.
- The WWT and WW were made to order, and finished in white glaze. You could choose the Eye-O-Matic MT Tourney insert, Toney Penna Eye-O-Matic insert, or the Tommy Armour solid colour insert. Red or black leather or rubber grips were options on top of every shaft Macgregor carried. Paintfill was either red or black according to your preference.
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney Model Overview
The models didn’t change but the look did. The 945TW and 945W got the six-screw red-white-red Eye-O-Matic insert with the mahogany glaze. The 653T and 653 models came in high gloss coal black with the white-black-white six-screw Eye-O-Matic insert.
MacGregor MT Tourney Model
The 1954 MT Tourney M09T & M09 LFF remained the same with the exception of the Eye-O-Matic insert which changed from an ebony black finished with a white-red-white, six-screw Eye-O-Matic insert to a dark mahogany, white-black-white, six-screw Eye-O-Matic insert.
1955 MacGregor Eye-O-Matic (MT) Tourney, Toney Penna, and Tommy Armour
The 1955 MacGregor Eye-O-Matic MT Tourney lineup and Tommy Armour Tourney lineup remained unchanged. The Toney Penna TPT and TP Tourney Wood remained unchanged. The WWT and WW line was swapped with the Toney Penna Tourney P83TW and P83W.
- MacGregor Toney Penna Tourney P83TW and P83W – Light cherry finish with a five-screw, cross formation, red-white-red Eye-O-Matic insert. The P83W was exactly the same but had a leather grip rather than a rubber grip.
Credits: A fine collection of catalogues was collated by Jim Kaplan in 1980. The catalogue is a rich green colour with gold foil stamping. It is both rare and expensive to purchase but invaluable to a collector. Much of the information in this article has been derived from these catalogues.
Note: Although there were plenty of other persimmon woods made by MacGregor we have focused on the Professional lines made for gentlemen. The ‘Tourney’ family of woods was oil-hardened, kiln-dried, and hand selected for grain structure (especially from the 1950 MT line onwards).
MacGregor Deep Face Jumbo Persimmon Drivers are the creme de la creme of the persimmon world. Whilst 1949 ushered in the infamous LFF model, as early as 1941, Jumbo models were available with only the most astute collector being able to distinguish between the models from the early 1940s and late 1940s. The 1951 to 1954 MT Tourney Models are perhaps the most desirable with the 1953 and 1954 M09 six-screw model being the most sought after. We finish off with the long-forgotten George Bayer model line. We hope this helps you identify your clubs. If you have any to sell, please get in touch.
The BJD & BJM – The OG MacGregor Deep Face Jumbo Drivers
1941 MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney BJD BJM Persimmon Wood Driver
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney J ‘Jumbo’ (BJD & BJM Model)
- Ebony finish
- One-half inch deeper than the H Hogan model
- 13* or Brassie loft
- Red, vulcanised fibre five-screw insert
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
- The BJD had a stiff shaft and the BJM had a medium-stiff shaft
Golden Age MacGregor Jumbo Deep Faced Drivers
1949 MacGregor Jumbo Deep Faced 108T 106T LFF Persimmon Wood Driver
MacGregor Tommy Armour Tourney Wood 69 (108T Model)
- Mahogany finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre four-screw insert
- Tommy Armour crown stamp
- Deep faced
- 108T – a 1 3/4″ deep-faced 69 series driver at 43″ and sporting a corded rubber grip
MacGregor Toney Penna Tourney Wood Pro 40 (106T Model aka LFF)
- Black ebony finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre four-screw insert
- Toney Penna crown stamp
- 106T – aka Toney Penna LFF Model Driver – a 403PT spec’d driver with 1 3/4″ deep face
1950 MacGregor MT Tourney M09T Persimmon Wood Driver
MacGregor MT Tourney Wood (M09T Model)
- Black ebony finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre four-screw insert
- MT crown stamp
1951 MacGregor MT Tourney M09T & M09 Persimmon Wood Driver
MacGregor MT Tourney Wood (M09T & M09 Models)
- Black ebony finish
- Red, vulcanised fibre four-screw diamond configured insert
- MT crown stamp
1952 MacGregor MT Tourney Persimmon Woods
The foundation was laid for the peak of MacGregor Tourney Woods in 1952. The iconic Eye-O-Matic insert was introduced with four screws but we would have to wait until 1953 to see six screws. The four screw face insert in a cross formation on the MT Tourney model was found on the M09T and M09 LFF models.
MacGregor MT Tourney M09T LFF and M09 Model Overview
- MT Tourney M09T LFF – Deep-faced jumbo driver. Black ebony glaze with white-red-white Eye-O-Matic insert. 43″ with a red rubber grip
- MT Tourney M09 LFF – Same as the M09T LFF but with leather grip
The LFF – The Holy Grail of MacGregor Deep Face Jumbo Drivers
1953 MacGregor MT Tourney Persimmon Woods
Changes to both lineups and models and perhaps the greatest persimmon driver of all time was released in the MacGregor MT Tourney M09T and M09 with the advent of the six-screw Eye-O-Matic insert.
- MT Tourney M09T LFF – Deep-faced jumbo driver. Black ebony glaze with a white-red-white Eye-O-Matic insert. 43″ with a red rubber grip.
- MT Tourney M09 LFF – Same as the M09T LFF but with leather grip.
The model range remained the same with the one obvious upgrade of a single screw. The 1953 M09T LFF & M09 LFF are perhaps the greatest persimmon drivers ever made.
Toney Penna WW – The DoDo of MacGregor Deep Face Jumbo Drivers
1954 MacGregor Toney Penna Model Overview
There were two Toney Penna Models available for 1954: WW/ WWT and TP/ TPT. The TP and TPT were regular stock items but the WWT and WW were special orders.
- The WWT and WW were made to order, and finished in white glaze. You could choose the Eye-O-Matic MT Tourney insert, Toney Penna Eye-O-Matic insert, or the Tommy Armour solid colour insert. Red or black leather or rubber grips were options on top of every shaft Macgregor carried. Paintfill was either red or black according to your preference.
1954 MacGregor MT Tourney
The MT Tourney line remained unchanged for 1954.
MacGregor MT Tourney Model
The 1954 MT Tourney M09T & M09 LFF remained the same with the exception of the Eye-O-Matic insert which changed from an ebony black finished with a white-red-white, six-screw Eye-O-Matic insert to a dark mahogany, white-black-white, six-screw Eye-O-Matic insert.
George Bayer – The Forgotten MacGregor Deep Face Jumbo Drivers
1957 MacGregor George Bayer DX300KW Deep-Faced Driver
George Bayer was the longest-hitting professional golfer at the time. His secret? His deep-faced DX300KW no doubt. New for 1957, the 1 7/8″ deep face featured the Super Eye-O-Matic, red-white-red, six-screw insert in a black ebony finish. The DX300W was the same but had a tri-colour leather grip.
1958 MacGregor George Bayer GB1KW Deep-Faced Driver
George Bayer was back in 1958 with a new model called the GB1KW and GB1W that featured a leather grip. The only change was the black buttons added to the four-screw insert. The insert had white paint fill.
1959 MacGregor George Bayer GB1TW Deep-Faced Driver
The next iteration of the George Bayer GB1 was the insert. The Super Eye-O-Matic triangle on the crown was removed and the insert featured black paint fill rather than white.
1960/61 MacGregor George Bayer GB1TW Deep-Faced Driver
The insert was replaced by a solid, red fibre inset with a five-screw X formation. The rosewood finish allowed the grain to finally be visible.
Credits: A fine collection of catalogues was collated by Jim Kaplan in 1980. The catalogue is a rich green colour with gold foil stamping. It is both rare and expensive to purchase but invaluable to a collector. Much of the information in this article has been derived from these catalogues. Find a copy of the catalogue.
Curious to know more? Check out our more extensive article about MacGregor Persimmons.
GB&I has an immense depth of quality golf. I’ve spent a lot of time researching and planning excursions to see the best the country has to offer. Some of these courses are on Evalu18 as I wanted to share some of the research I found or they were recommended from a trusted source. If and when I am able to visit these courses, I will update them and possibly include them on the site.
Courses I’d Visit If the Opportunity Presented Itself
Aboyne
Alnmouth Village
Alyth
Appleby
Archerfield
Ardglass
Auchterarder
Baildon
Bamburgh Castle
Bearwood Lakes
Blairgowrie
Bingley St Ives
Birley Wood
Boat of Garten
Bolton Old Links
Bonar Bridge & Ardgay
Bonnyton
Borth & Ynyslas
Buckinghamshire
Bruntsfield Links
Bradford
Bromborough
Buckpool
Bude & North Cornwall
Burnhill New & Old
Bushfoot
Canterbury
Carton House
Castlegregory
Castlerock
Cawder
Chart Hills
Charnwood
Cleakheaton
Clitheroe
Close House
Conwy
Copt Heath
Cork
Covesea
Cowdray Park
Coxmoor
Crosland Heath
Cullen Links
Dalmahoy
Doncaster
Downfield
Dromoland Castle
Dunbar
Dingle Links
Donegal
Dooks
Downfield
Duff House
Dun Laoghaire
Dunnerholme
Dunstanburgh Castle
East Devon
East Renfewshire
Edgbaston
Effingham
Enville
Edzell
Elgin
Forfar
Fortrose & Rosemarkie
Fota Island
Foxhills
Freshwater Bay
Frilford Heath
Fulford
Furness
Glenbervie
Galway
Glen
Gog Magog
Golspie
Goodwood
Grantown-On-Spey
Greystones
Haggs Castle
Halifax
Hallamshire
Harborne
Harleyford
Harrogate
Hartleypook
Haywards Heath
Headfort
Headingley
Hesketh
Heworth
Hexham
High Post
Hillside
Holtye
Holyhead
Hopeman
Irvine
K Club
Kedleston Park
Kilkeel
Killeen Castle
Killin
Killiney
Kilmacolm
Kilmarnock Barrassie
Ladybank
La Moye
Leopardstown
Leven
Lewes
Little Aston
Littlehampton
Littlestone
London Scottish
Long Ashton
Longniddry
Lough Erne
Luffenham Heath
Luffness New
Lundin
Machynys Peninsula
Macroom
Malone
Manchester
Montrose
Monifieth
Moor Allerton
Moray
Mount Juliet Estate
Murcar
Musselburgh GC
Nairn Dunbar
Nelson
Newburgh-on-Ythan
Newmachar
North Wales
North West
North Hants
Northamptonshire County
Orsett
Pannal
Panmure
Peebles
Pitlochry
Porthmadog
Portmarnock Hotel
Portpatrick
Portsalon
Powfoot
Prestatyn
Prestwick St Nicholas
Rathmore
Remedy Oak
Rosslare
Rothes
Rowallan Castle
Royal Belfast
Royal Burgess
Royal Blackheath
Royal Cromer
Royal Mid Surrey
Royal Musselburgh
Royal Norwich
Sandmoor
Sandiway
Scarborough North
Scarborough South
Scotscraig
Seacroft
Seaford Blatchington
Seahouses
Seascale
Seaton Carew
Sheringham
Shipley
Shirley Park
Spanish Point
South Moor
Southerndown
Southerness
Stoke Park
Strandhill
Strathlene Buckie
St Annes Old Links
Sunningdale Heath
Sutton Coldfield
Tain
Tenby
The Duke’s
The Grove
The Richmond
The Wisley
Thetford
Thorndon Park
Thurlestone
Tidworth Garrison
Troon St Meddans
Tyneside
Warkworth
West Cornwall
West Kilbride
Weston-Super-Mare
Whittington Heath
Wigtownshire
Wildernesse
How many more golf courses would you like to see? is a question my wife asks me quite a lot. I’ve been able to see some cracking golf around the world but that only intensifies the urge to explore more…
Courses I Want to Visit
If I left GB&I today never to return, it would sadden me I missed seeing them but I could sleep at night. The reason to visit is for a multitude of factors. For example, it may have been a recommendation from a trusted source or even to challenge my own palette with regard to golf course architecture. The GB&I list includes some obscure courses that are due to a specific golf course architect being involved (Dalmunzie & Tom Simpson, Leckford Old & Harry Colt, or Killarney & Sir Guy Campbell).
GB&I
Aberdovey
Adare Manor
Ardfin
Ballyliffin
Beaverbrook
Blackmoor
Broadway
Great Yarmouth & Caister
Camberley Heath
Castletown
Church Stretton
Cleeve Hill
Cleveland
Corballis
Crail
Crowborough Beacon
Cruit Island
Dalmunzie
Delamere Forest
Ferndown
Formby
Formby Ladies
Golf House Club Elie
Goswick
gWest
Hadley Wood
Ham Manor
Hindhead
Hog’s Head
Killarney Golf & Fishing Club
Kilspindie
Leckford Old
Lindrick
Nairn
Nefyn & District
Old Head
Parkstone
Peterhead
Piltdown
Portstewart
Pyle & Kenfig
Royal Wimbledon
Royal Jersey
Sandy Lodge
Saunton East & West
Sherwood Forest
Southport & Ainsdale
Tadmarton Heath
Temple
The European Club
The Island
The Renaissance Club
Tralee
Trevose
Waterville
West Lancashire
West Byfleet
Woodbridge
International
Given unlimited funds and access, these are the courses I’d like to see. Japan is a glaring omission but I don’t know enough to even start on a list…
Australia
7 Mile
Barnbougle Dunes
Barnbougle Lost Farm
Barnbougle Run
Commonwealth
Cape Wickham
Metropolitan
Peninsula Kingswood
Royal Melbourne East & Composite
Canada
Banff (Canada)
Cabot Cliffs
Cabot Links
Calgary
Capilano
Hamilton
Highland Links
Jasper Park Lodge (Canada)
Shaughnessy
St George’s
Toronto
Europe
Eindhoven (Netherlands)
Lofoten Links (Norway)
Hilversumsche (Netherlands)
Kennemer (Netherlands)
Koninklijke Haagsche (Netherlands)
Noordwijkse (Netherlands)
Pedrena (Spain)
Utrecht de Pan (Netherlands)
Real Puerta de Hierro (Spain)
Royal Antwerp (Belgium)
Royal Belgium (Belgium)
Royal Fagnes (Belgium)
Royal Sart Tilman (Belgium)
Royal Zoute (Belgium)
France
Chantilly
Chiberta
Fontainebleau
Grand Saint-Emilionnais
Granville
Hardelot
Le Touqet
Les Bordes New
Les Bordes Old
Les Bordes Wild Piglet
Lys Chantilly
Morefontaine Grand Parcours
Morefontaine Valliere
St Cloud
St Germaine
New Zealand
Paraparaumu
Waverley
Titirangi
USA
Aronimink
Ballyneal
Bandon Dunes (Dunes, Trails, Pacific Dunes & Old Macdonald)
Baltursrol
Bayonne
Bethpage Black
Brookline (The Country Club)
Burning Tree
California GC of San Franciscoco
Camargo
Chevy Chase
Congressional
Chicago
Crystal Downs
Eastward Ho!
Essex Country Club
Fishers Island
Friar’s Head
Garden City
Hollywood
Interlachen
Inverness Club
Lawsonia
Los Angeles
Kingsley Club
Kittansett
Maidstone
Merion East
Myopia Hunt
Monterrey Peninsula
NGLA
Oakland Hills
Oakmont
Ohoopee Match Club
Old Barnwell
Old Elm
Old Sandwich
Olympic Club
Pine Valley
Pinehurst No 2 & 10
Piping Rock
Prairie Dunes
Riviera
Rock Creek Cattle Company
San Francisco
Sand Hills
Sand Valley
Scioto
Sebonack
Seminole
Shinnecock Hills
Shoreacres
Sleepy Hollow
Somerset Hills
Southampton
Southern Hills
St George’s
Streamsong (Red, Blue, & Black)
Sweetens Cove
The Golf Club
Tobacco Road
Whippoorwill
White Bear Yacht Club
Winged Foot East & West
Yale
Yeamans Hall
Evalu18 has always been about documenting my golf course architecture journey. I’ve been able to see, play, walk, and study some phenomenal golf. Sharing my experience will hopefully encourage you to see golf through more than a laser range finder with a card and pencil in your hand. Even when you’re dew sweeping on your own with a Sunday bag, you’re always playing against at least one other person… the one who laid out the course.
(Please note: Golf courses in the United Kingdom & Ireland (unless otherwise indicated) I’ve personally visited. Additionally, there are many golf courses not included here as my architectural awareness was not acute enough to appreciate them fully.)
3 Star Golf Courses
3 Stars Criteria – Truly exceptional on the world stage. Worth the journey to play on its own. Serves as the anchor of any golf trip or experience. You are richer for having played the course and consider it a truly elite experience that will punctuate your golf course oeuvre for life. If you played only this course on a single trip, it would be worth a long journey. Probably in the discussion for a Top 100 golf course in the world on most ranks. A Doak Scale of 9 or 10, this is the elite tier of world golf.
St Andrews Old Course – I feel TOC is the greatest golf course in the world from an architectural perspective. As such, I feel that it uniquely is above any rank or rating.
Augusta National (USA)
Banff Springs (Canada)
Carnoustie
Cruden Bay
Cypress Point (USA)
Kingston Heath (Australia)
Machrihanish
Muirfield
North Berwick
Pebble Beach (USA)
Prestwick
Royal Melbourne West (Australia)
Royal Dornoch
Royal Liverpool
Royal St George’s
Royal Troon
St George’s Hill
St Patrick’s
Sunningdale Old
Sunningdale New
Swinley Forest
Tara Iti (New Zealand)
West Sussex
Woodhall Spa
Golf Course rankings, absurd as they are, are a staple of golf media. Whatever your motivator for using them, it is the discussion they prompt that I feel is their most valuable contribution to golf. The worst part? It has bred a group of punch list tickers who miss the likes of Painswick and Minchinhampton because they need to get from Westward Ho! to Walton Heath. Herein, I stand on my soapbox regarding rankings and offer a superior (in my opinion) alternative.
(Caveat: From 2023, The Fried Egg has also begun ranking golf courses with a similar system. I reached out to Andy Johnson to explain we had been working on a similar concept but they beat us to press. As most of their content will focus on the USA, it would seem we are on a similar journey in a different lane. Just as there is no monopoly on Top 100 Ranks, we hope a different approach to mostly UK&I golf courses will be welcomed.)
The Absurdity of Top 100 Rankings
How is it possible Trump Turnberry is the best this year, Muirfield (The Honourable Company) was the previous year, and St Andrews Old Course will be again next year? What about Royal Dornoch and Royal County Down? With no real movement in or out of the top 3, 5, or even 10 golf courses, it feels as though most rankings simply are shuffling the deck.
The transient nature of rankings, with no real correlation to what’s happening on the ground, is also curious. To be fair, sometimes a golf club will make big changes and it is reflected in the rankings. Princes Golf Club in Kent, England is a good example. Having dropped off most Top 100 Lists, it has seen a relisting and resurgence due to recent investment and improvements.
Recently, a golf club with three parkland golf courses in middle England wished to be unranked. One leading rank has all three courses firmly in the Top 100 in GB&I. None of the other rankings included one of the three. Curious. It must be said, however, that from about 75 onwards there are about 50 clubs that have a legitimate chance of ranking.
The Touchstone of Rankings – St Andrews Old Course
There is no stronger case against the absurdity of rankings than The Old Course at St Andrews itself. If the Old Course is not Number 1, can you really take the rank seriously? The notion (from an architectural perspective anyways) that there is anything more complete than The Old Course is an indictment to those who purport otherwise. It stands above all others and has earned the right to be held in such high regard it transcends being weighed and measured against others. If you disagree, perhaps we just don’t see or celebrate golf the same way. For me, St Andrews will always represent the pinnacle of strategic golf course architecture.
With that said, maybe this is a good time to address the issues surrounding the Old Course. It has been lengthened and in doing so, the new teeing grounds have altered or lost strategic playing lines and angles. Mowing lines have shrunk and consequently, the options have been reduced. It is, however, the most strategic golf course in the world. Recently, world-class golf course architect, shaper, and long-time St Andrews resident Clyde Johson remarked that the strategy of the hole changes in a matter of just a few yards. Even as it stands today, The Old Course still represents the best of strategic golf and architecture.
Still disagree? Bobby Jones wrote: “If I had ever been set down in any one place and told I was to play there, and nowhere else, for the rest of my life, I should have chosen the Old Course at St. Andrews.” Tiger Woods stated: “My favorite course that I have been on is St. Andrews. That’s my favorite course of all time.” Additionally, both players and golf course architects are singing from the same hymn sheet. Read any of the golf course architecture sacred texts written by Harry Colt, Alister Mackenzie, and Tom Simpson and you will quickly realize they all revered the Old Course and held it as the greatest of all time…
Why Only 100?
Another bone to pick with ranks is the arbitrary number of 100. A Top 100 for most countries or regions is entirely irrelevant. Depending on the region or criteria, 100 could be too few or too many. To use the Michelin Star example, France has 758 Michelin Star Restaurants, Japan has 554, Italy has 432, Germany has 384, and the USA has 276. Until recently, Canada had none. Does that mean the culinary experience in Canada was non-existent? Far from it!
The point I am making is this: Once you get past the truly elite, why should a club’s future be maligned for being 101st when there is probably no real significant difference between the 35 to 50 that supposedly proceed it or follow it? The limit of 100 is an arbitrary number that seems too clumsy and unfit for purpose.
Personal Preference Influencing Rank
Pursuing the Michelin Star analogy, Japan has 554 elite eateries. However, if I cannot stomach raw fish, the majority of those will be low on my list. Does that mean they aren’t worthy because my palette won’t allow even the contemplation of Ikizukiri? I may not like Casu Matzu or Pieds Paquets but does that lessen their deserved place in Italian or French cuisine?
If I prefer links does that mean Pine Valley cannot and should not be the best in the world? Rankers or course raters are people and people have preferences. Those tastes influence whether they are told to be objective. (Pine Valley, Royal Melbourne West, and Cypress Point would all be 3 Stars by the way…)
Criterion for Rating & Ranking
When you go into the weeds on what goes into the major rankings, you are presented with a plethora of intangible markers upon which a golf club’s golf course is weighed and measured. What exactly are playability, overall experience, visual appeal, and enjoyment? How does one account for enjoyment or the other factors? Augusta National has a freeway running along its border – does road noise influence ‘enjoyment’? Most great links in GB&I have railways influencing play – do railways, trains, and associated infrastructure affect ‘visual appeal’? The high-profile Cypress Point Club has a popular road bisecting the course. There is also an inexhaustible list of contradictory examples.
What about the tangible criteria of club facilities? Should St Andrews Old be demoted because there is no short game area or driving range in the immediate vicinity? It appears these haven’t been factored in but rather overlooked, in some assessments. If you set the criteria, be relentless in applying them to any golf course no matter where or which one it may be.
The Doak Scale – An Existing Alternative
The only real alternative to the major Top 100 rankings is The Doak Scale. Ratings can be from 0-10 and a brief description to help narrow down where a golf course is best suited. A 10 is described as ‘nearly perfect.’ A 9 is termed to be ‘outstanding’. 7 & 8 are both described as ‘excellent’. 5 & 6 are ‘above average’ or ‘very good’.
Of interest, Tom Doak adds a further description: how far one should travel to see the golf on offer. A 10 is worth an immediate visit no matter where the course is. A 9 is a golf course one should see once in your life. 7 & 8 are both described as ‘worth a special trip to see’. Those rated a 5 or 6 are golf courses you’d add after once you play a 7, 8, 9, or 10.
To put this in context, a 3 Star rating would equate to a 9 or 10 on the Doak Scale. A 2 Star rating would equate to a 7 or 8. A 1 Star rating would be a 5 or 6. To use a relevant example, Royal Dornoch would constituent a 3 Star, Brora a 2 Star, and Carnegie a 1 Star. Being in the vicinity of these three courses, Tain and Golspie would enter as ‘Worth A Visit’.
Michelin Stars & Golf Ranks
Over the next little while, we will be adding stars to the site. For now, we will use Kent as an example that can convey our methodology.
3 Stars – Exceptional – Worth the journey to play on its own. Serves as the anchor of any golf trip or experience. You are richer for having played the course and consider it a truly elite experience that will punctuate your golf course oeuvre for life. If you played only this course on a single trip, it would be worth the journey from Land’s End to John o’Grouts. Probably in the discussion for a Top 100 golf course in the world. To use a Kent example, Royal St George’s would earn 3 stars.
2 Stars – Excellent – Golf of the highest order. This is probably one of the very best golf courses in the area or country. Perhaps in GB&I, the courses found in the top percentile of the respective Top 100 lists of Wales, Ireland, Scotland, and England would be here. To use another Kent example, Royal Cinque Ports would earn 2 stars. Some would even contend it should be 3 stars… (and you wouldn’t have to push too hard to convince me…)
1 Star – Very Good – The supporting cast would provide worthy golf as a second 18 or golf on the 2nd or 3rd day of a trip. While you’re here you would enjoy a round and may like it as much as a 2 Star depending on your own taste and preference. If you’re invited to play, you take the day off work as you just don’t miss the opportunity. To continue the Kent example, Princes firmly sits with 1 star and some may argue for 2.
Worth A Visit – Notable for a worthy reason. For example, historic significance to golf or a truly remarkable architectural highlight. You may come to see a single hole or even green complex. If the Sitwell Green alone was restored, you would go, wouldn’t you? To use the Kent example, North Foreland Short Course would be worth a visit. If you missed it, however, you probably wouldn’t regret it.
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.
Read more about Traigh’s on its dedicated page.
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.
Read more about Iona on its dedicated page.
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…
Read more about Gairloch’s on its dedicated page.
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.
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 pretty 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 two 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 is more or less nowadays. 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.
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 as 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.
I play the Edel SMS Pro Forged Irons. The 3 iron is bent to 19*. The 5, 7, and 9 irons are at in 7-degree increments from 26* to 40*. My first wedge (10 iron) is an old-school 47* and a 54* sand iron.
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 handle @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 about 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 is 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.
After convincing myself I didn’t need three wedges I currently play a single wedge. The 47* is essentially an old-school 10 iron and the 55-degree wedge with the fitted, custom grind has not caused me any harm.
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.
I’ve begun playing persimmons. The beauty and sound cannot be replicated and when you catch the screws you dont give up as much as you think. The MacGregor M85W 4-wood from 1953 actually outperforms my Cobra Baffler hybrids and is easier to hit from a variety of lies.
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 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 critical 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 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? 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 Liverpool Golf Club (Hoylake), 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 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, whiskey, and wine no doubt helped. It seems this accumulation of knowledge and understanding is what has now been 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 of the above. Golf course architecture has to be a talent, a set of skills, a plethora of trades, and an art form. It is the assembling of an incredibly diverse array of skill sets 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.
More on the Topic of Golf Course Architecture
Perhaps it is the ability to identify which characteristics share a commonality between good golf courses is the key to identifying what golf course architecture really is. I hope to explore this in a future article.
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 Evolution of Augusta National is a journey through the chronicles of perhaps the most famous golf course in the world, hole by hole from Alister MacKenzie to Tom Fazio! Let’s go deep on the host of The Master’s Tournament and the home of the iconic green jacket, welcome to The Evolution of Augusta National.
The Evolution of Augusta National
Augusta National From a Golf Course Architecture Perspective
Living entities evolve and change and golf courses are no different. Whilst some changes are organic, others are firmly forced… We proudly present the most in-depth review of Augusta National available. Artwork by Joe McDonnell and Chris O’Riley.
Hole 1 – Augusta National – Tea Olive
445 Yards – Par 4
Tea Olive Hole History
Formerly known as Cherokee Rose. In 1934 it played as Hole 10 as was 400 yards long.
Tea Olive Hole Description
An uphill, dogleg right.
Alister MacKenzie‘s Original Design Strategy
A drive as close as possible to the trees on the right sets up the ideal line for the second – a running shot into a firm green.
Tea Olive’s Evolution
A stream and the left fairway bunker have been removed. The fairway has been narrowed and the right fairway bunker moved further up the fairway. A front left greenside bunker was added in 1950 by Robert Trent Jones and in play for 1951. Tom Fazio has moved the tee back twice and shortened the tee box once. The overall distance gain has been roughly 40 yards.
Deep Dive on Tea Olive’s Evolution at Augusta
The 1934 Programme produced following the initial tournament has a General Plan which clearly shows a bunker left of the green. (1) The Hole Diagram appears to show it as a hillock. (2) It also contains an illustration of the green site which excludes it. (3) Perhaps most intriguing is Alister MacKenzie’s own illustration (4) and 10th green sketch (5) from 1933. It appears to show a bunker front left and back right! The conclusion? There must have been significant changes from 1932 to 1934 regarding the bunkering on the 10th (now 1st).
From MacKenzie’s own hand, his November 1931 watercolour shows no right-side fairway bunker. It does, however, show the left fairway bunker and a bunker on either side of the green. His June 1932 sketch appears to exclude the right greenside bunker which is confirmed in the Olmsted As-built from November 1932. You can see these on the Alister MacKenzie Institute website. The 1938 aerial photograph appears to indicate no greenside bunkers at the time.
Augusta National Tea Olive Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 2 – Augusta National – Pink Dogwood
575 Yards – Par 5
Pink Dogwood Hole History
Formerly known as Woodbine. In 1934 it played as Hole 11 as was 525 yards long.
Pink Dogwood Hole Description
A downhill, dogleg left; reachable in two.
Pink Dogwood Trivia
The hole has played under par in every Masters.
Alister MacKenzie‘s Original Design Strategy
For par, each of the three-shot would need to be placed accurately. However, the strongest of players could reach in two.
Pink Dogwood’s Evolution
The fairway has been narrowed. The required carry over a cross hazard was replaced by a right-side fairway bunker in 1966. Greenside, a left front bunker was added in 1946.
Some criticise the narrowing of Augusta when looking at the historic imagery. As shown, by the 1960s the landing zone left of the fairway bunker was virtually non-existent which encouraged a cautious approach. Tom Fazio made some changes that significantly widened the playing corridor.
Many nostalgists long after the ‘lace effect’ edging of the bunkers seen in historical photographs. It would appear the aesthetics were simplified in the 1940s.
Deep Dive on Pink Dogwood’s Evolution at Augusta
Alister MacKenzie’s November 1931 watercolour shows a single bunker right greenside. There is no carry bunker but he does include a creek at the low point in front of the green. The June 1932 sketch has the addition of the carry bunker in the fairway but the creek had disappeared. The November 1932 Olmsted As-built confirms the features of the June sketch. The 1934 Programme (1) shows the features as per 1932 with MacKenzie’s green sketch (2) and illustration (3) confirming the features.
Augusta National Pink Dogwood Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 3 – Augusta National – Flowering Peach
350 Yards – Par 4
Flowering Peach Hole History
In 1934 it played as Hole 12 and is one of the few holes which has not been lengthened.
Flowering Peach Hole Description
A slightly uphill, straight, short par 4.
Flowering Peach Trivia
As is true with many great strategic holes, a great variety of scores is possible. Historically, it has played over par.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
The test here was the approach shot. The original green was wide on the right and narrow on the left. The pin was usually located left bringing the bunker into play. The green shape is roughly similar to the original.
Flowering Peach’s Evolution
Elements of the original design remain, making this one of the least changed holes on the course. This comes as no surprise as both MacKenzie and Jones considered it nearly perfect in design.
The green is on a plateau that ran away on the right and front. The front left was guarded by a bunker and the rear and right contained mounds.
Deep Dive on Flowering Peach’s Evolution at Augusta
Alister MacKenzie’s November 1931 watercolour includes a creek in front of the tee and a diagonal cross bunker. This would suggest the aesthetic use of bunkering rather than stringent minimal strategic placement. His June 1932 plan has no indication of creek or cross bunker nor does the November 1932 Olmsted As-built.
His 1933 green sketch (1A, B) would seem to indicate two smaller bunkers left greenside whereas his 1934 programme illustration (2) shows one large bunker. Interestingly, the diagram in the 1934 programme seems to indicate one large bunker with an island or similar mound centrally located. (3) See the Visual Overlay by Joe McDonnell below for a clearer interpretation.
The 1938 aerial photograph shows one fairway bunker and one greenside bunker.
Augusta National Flowering Peach Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 4 – Augusta National – Flowering Crab Apple
240 Yards – Par 3
Flowering Crab Apple Hole History
In 1934, the hole was known as Palm, was played as Hole 12 and was 190 yards long.
Flowering Crab Apple Hole Description
A stout one shot hole that plays slightly downhill to a pushed-up green. Remember, yardages at Augusta National are measured from the middle of the back tee to the furthest pin position. MacKenzie’s Eden template.
Flowering Crab Apple Trivia
Just 4 holes into the round you are presented with historically the third hardest hole on the course!
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
This hole is similar to the 11th or Eden at St Andrews. MacKenzie explains most Eden’s fail because the turf is too soft or the slopes are not severe enough. This reinforces the idea the ‘tongue’ was used to accept a running shot.
Flowering Crab Apple’s Evolution
The tee has been pushed back but it would appear the intent of the requisite stroke has been preserved. 190 yards in 1934 would have tested the best. The tee has been moved back a couple of times increasing the yardage from 190 yards to 205 yards, then to 220 yards, and now at 240 yards.
Deep Dive on Flowering Crab Apple’s Evolution at Augusta
The 1931 watercolour shows bunkers on either side of the tongue. There is also a bunker shown short and right. The June 1932 sketch shows only the greenside bunkers and is nearly identical to the November 1932 Olmsted As-built. (1) The 1933 green sketch shows the same two bunkers but also includes a depression short and right of the green the same depth as the right bunker. (2) The 1934 illustration and diagram show mounds rather than depressions. (3)
Augusta National Flowering Crab Apple Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 5 – Augusta National – Magnolia
495 Yards – Par 4
Magnolia Hole History
In 1934, the hole was played as the 14th and was 440 yards long.
Magnolia Hole Description
A slightly uphill, two-shot par 4 patterned after the Road Hole at St Andrews.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
Trees were used on the corner as opposed to the original station master’s garden. It is the plateau green rather than the bunker which served as a prototype. The original green sketch shows a prominent hollow behind the green as at St Andrews.
Magnolia’s Evolution
The hole is a dogleg right to left as opposed to the reverse at St Andrews. For many, the most identifiable feature of the Road Hole is its bunker – which MacKenzie didn’t include. A bunker was removed on the left side short of the green and one added in the 1950s to the rear of the green.
The fairway bunkers were moved forward in 2003 and the tees moved back in 2018. The carry is now 315 yards! Similar to the 3rd, the fairway hazard complex went from one to three and then reduced to two.
Deep Dive on Magnolia’s Evolution at Augusta
MacKenzie’s ode to the Road Hole. His 1931 watercolour shows no bunker on the inside of the dogleg and what appears to be a Road Hole bunker greenside that was pencilled in rather than painted yellow. There is a bunker short and left of the green. His sketch from June 1932 shows an elaborate bunker at the corner and a bunker short and left. A combined Progressing and Scholar’s seem to have been included. The 1932 Olmsted As-built contains no bunker greenside. The 1933 green sketch shows a hollow in front of and behind the green with a deeper hollow mimicking the Road Hole. According to the sketch, there was a 7’ difference between the bottom of the hollow and the green. The 1934 programme indicates no depression but simply a plateaued green site. The 1938 aerial photograph shows a bunker at the rear of the green.
Augusta National Magnolia Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 6 – Augusta National – Juniper
180 Yards – Par 3
Juniper Hole History
In 1934, the hole was played as Hole 15 and was 185 yards long.
Juniper Hole Description
The second one-shot hole in this stretch of three. Hole 6 also continues the Scottish theme, patterned after the Redan Hole and North Berwick, East Lothian, Scotland. The green runs away from the line of play. This ‘Redan’ was considered superior by MacKenzie due to its’ increased visibility and surroundings.
Juniper Trivia
Juniper is 5 yards shorter than the original in 1934!
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
The intent was no doubt to play a running shot in from right to left. The front left was protected by the bunker whilst the right rear allowed the ball to run through. The original green sketch shows large mounds green side on the right and rear left. The hole plays significantly downhill. The mound back left on the original green was so big it was called a “buried elephant.”
Juniper’s Evolution
The hole is now shorter than the original and has lost the stream and pond. A large mound has been retained although tamed.
Deep Dive on Juniper’s Evolution at Augusta
MacKenzie’s ode to the Redan. The 1931 watercolour shows a bunker guarding the front left and right, as well as the rear! The June 1932 sketch shows just the front bunker which is confirmed by the November 1932 Olmsted As-built. (1) There was a creek that became a pond and then disappeared completely by 1959. MacKenzie’s green sketch from 1933 shows four prominent mounds as well as 3 bunkers! (2) It appears the front right and rear left bunkers never were constructed as is shown in the 1934 Programme photo (3) and illustration. (4)
Augusta National Juniper Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 7 – Augusta National – Pampas
450 Yards – Par 4
Pampas Hole History
In 1934, Pampas was played as the 16th hole and measured 340 yards long.
Pampas Hole Description
A relatively flat two-shot hole with a narrow chute to a well-protected green with bunkers front and back.
Pampas Trivia
Byron Nelson drove the green in 1937 when it played 340 yards!
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
The template hole is the 18th at The Old Course St Andrews named Tom Morris. The Valley of Sin is the element that was emulated. A running shot through the depression was needed to lie dead at a left pin position. The rear right of the green was the high spot whilst the front left was the lowest. The original hole played 340 yards. The 18th at St Andrews still plays 361 yards.
Pampas’ Evolution
The original hole had no bunkers. It now has five – three in front of it and two behind the green. The green was said to lack character and bunkers were added to offset the perceived inadequacies. The green was rebuilt by Perry Maxwell in 1938. The green was modelled after Pine Valley’s 8th and added three bunkers. George Cobb added the two rear bunkers in 1955.
Horton Smith, 1934 and 1936 Masters Champion suggested rebuilding the green and adding bunkers. The front bunkers were in play for the 1939 Masters and the rear in play for the 1956 Masters. In 2006, a rear tee added 40 yards to the hole, trees were planted to narrow the fairway and the green was rebuilt.
Deep Dive on Pampas’ Evolution at Augusta
MacKenzie’s original watercolour from November 1931 shows a creek and bunker to the rear of the green. The June 1932 sketch shows no creek nor bunker but a definite Valley of Sin green front. His 1933 green sketch appears to show a bunker to the rear 5’ lower than the green. This bunker was backed by a mound 12’ higher than the bunker floor! (1) The 1934 Programme shows no bunkers whatsoever in the Olmsted As-built drawing (2) nor the illustration. (3) Additionally, no bunker appears in the 1938 aerial photograph.
Augusta National Pampas Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 8 – Augusta National – Yellow Jasmine
570 Yards – Par 5
Yellow Jasmine Hole History
In 1934, Yellow Jasmine was the penultimate hole and measured 500 yards.
Yellow Jasmine Hole Description
An uphill, three-shot hole. The green is visible from the tee but is blind from the bottom of the incline near the fairway bunkers.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
The green was originally a punchbowl with hillocks nine to twelve feet high surrounding it. A blind shot for those gambling to reach in two with a completely visible third who play it traditionally.
The original green sketch shows the high spot in the centre of the green with it lower in front and rear. The twelve-foot hillock was to the left and the ten-foot hillock to the right of the green. Eight hillocks were sketched on the original plans ranging from three to eight feet.
Yellow Jasmine’s Evolution
The fairway bunker was positioned centrally whereas it protects the right edge of the fairway. It was reshaped and doubled in size in 2002. The tee was pushed back about 20 yards and 10 yards right in the same year.
The hillocks or mounds greenside were removed in 1956. Clifford Roberts made the worst alteration to Augusta National when he made the infamous figure-eight green. George Cobb was called in to put it right and added two bunkers. The hillocks were restored in 1979 by Mr Byron Nelson and Joseph Finger.
Deep Dive on Yellow Jasmine’s Evolution at Augusta
The November 1931 watercolour shows the centreline bunker. It remains in the June 1932 sketch where the green site seems to have been settled on. Nothing material changed by the time the November 1932 Olmsted As-built was done. MacKenzie’s 1933 sketch remains true to the 1931 and 1932 renders. There is a very real similarity to the green it is patterned after at Muirfield. This hole seems to have been one that was settled on early and remained fixed. Changes made were motivated to enhance the spectator experience as can be seen below. These were soon remedied in a return to MacKenzie’s rendition.
Augusta National Yellow Jasmine Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 9 – Augusta National – Carolina Cherry
460 Yards – Par 4
Carolina Cherry Hole History
In 1934, Carolina Cherry was the home hole and measured 420 yards.
Carolina Cherry Hole Description
Downhill from the tee but uphill from the fairway. The green is known for its cascade from back to front with a false front.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
Designed as a Cape in the spirit CB Macdonald‘s NGLA Cape which was fashioned after the 1st at Machrihanish. The original green was a boomerang or horseshoe shape. Adjacent to the right rear was the 19th tee as shown on the original sketch.
Carolina Cherry’s Evolution
Players ended up playing down the first fairway to obtain a better angle into the boomerang green. The bunkers were added in 1938 and boomerang green was removed to encourage play down the right side of the 9th fairway. Two bunkers are found on the front of the green where there was only one. The false front on the original was more severe and the green wrapped behind the bunker left.
The tees were moved back about 25 yards in 2002. In order to access the left side of the green, players began playing down the 1st fairway. Successive changes were made with the green complex and with trees to prevent players from showing too much ingenuity in playing down the first.
Deep Dive on Carolina Cherry’s Evolution at Augusta
November 1931 watercolour indicates the bunker was meant to be boomerang shaped with a circular green in the middle. The June 1932 sketch shows the now-famous boomerang green with interlocking shaped boomerang bunker. The 1932 Olmsted As-built confirms this configuration. Interestingly, the 1933 green sketch appears to show a similar design to the 1931 watercolour. (1) The 1934 pictorial illustration (2) and diagram (3) agrees with the 1932 Olmsted As-built.
Augusta National Carolina Cherry Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 10 – Augusta National – Camellia
495 Yards – Par 4
Camellia Hole History
The opening hole in 1934, Camellia measured 430 yards.
Camellia Hole Description
A long, severely downhill par 4. It is historically the toughest hole on the course.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
A bold drive over hillocks on the right side of the fairway set up the angle for the second shot. A drive to the left side of the fairway meant a carry over the bunker to a green which ran away and left. To the right of the green is a 20-foot high natural bank and a 5-foot hump at the entrance of the green. The hole is meant to embody the best features of the 13th at Cypress Point and the 4th at Alwoodley.
Camellia’s Evolution
The green used to be located to the right of the fairway bunker. It was moved further up the hill in 1937 and a bunker added to the right side. Originally, MacKenzie felt this hole was a “comparatively easy” opening hole.
It was reported that some could drive the green due to the 102-foot drop in elevation from tee to green. The green did suffer from drainage issues and was moved to its current location in time for the 1939 Masters.
Deep Dive on Camellia’s Evolution at Augusta
The November 1931 Watercolour shows a sprawling bunker with the green located to its’ right. The June 1932 Plan confirms the same details. The November 1932 Olmsted As-built again confirms the configuration. (1) The green sketch shows the green falling away front to back over 3’. (2) MacKenzie describes the green as a punchbowl in the 1934 programme. The illustration reaffirms the comments above. (3)
Augusta National Camellia Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 11 – Augusta National – White Dogwood
505 Yards – Par 4
White Dogwood Hole History
In 1934, White Dogwood was known as simply Dogwood. It was the second and played 415 yards.
White Dogwood Hole Description
The beginning of Amen Corner. The second downhill hole in succession.
White Dogwood Trivia
The idea to dam the stream and to make a greenside pond was claimed by Clifford Roberts, Robert Trent Jones and Byron Nelson!
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
A unique take on the dogleg with the advantage given to the player who could place his drive to the furthest corner rather to the apex of the inside corner. A conservative tee shot made the approach harder. A bold tee shot made the approach easier. The green sketch reveals a flat green with 12-foot drop from the right side of the green and 10-foot drop from the entrance.
White Dogwood’s Evolution
Perhaps one of the holes that has changed more than any other. The original was played as a severe dogleg right without a centreline bunker according to Mackenzie’s painting and drawing. The bunker appears on the November 1932 Olmsted As-built.
The original green was situated next to the stream until 1950. A pond that has grown in size replaced the stream. The centreline bunker disappeared, and two bunkers appeared behind the green in 1953. By 1998, the two became one and have remained since.
Deep Dive on White Dogwood’s Evolution at Augusta
The November 1931 Watercolour shows no bunkers on the entirety of the hole and this is confirmed on Mackenzie’s June 1932 signed course plan. (1) The November 1932 Olmsted As-built shows the centreline bunker. (2) It would seem to dispel the idea that Bobby Jones installed the bunker for the 1935 edition of The Masters as some speculate. This seems to suggest changes after MacKenzie signed off the course and before the Olmsted As-builts were drawn up. (Compare 1 & 2) The green sketch shows a stream rather than a pond. (3)
Augusta National White Dogwood Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 12 – Augusta National – Golden Bell
Par 3 – 155 yards
Golden Bell Hole History
In 1934, Golden Bell was the third hole and measured 150 yards.
Golden Bell Hole Description
One of the most famous golf holes in the world. The essence of the hole has remained virtually unchanged. It is the shortest hole on the course and historically, the fourth toughest.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
Play to the fat part of the green on the left or flirt with the hero shot to the pin on the right. The original sketch shows a ridge being the high point in the middle of the green.
Golden Bell’s Evolution
The creek fronting the green is now wider and deeper. The green has also been narrowed.
Deep Dive on Golden Bell’s Evolution at Augusta
The November 1931 Watercolour shows no bunkers front and two behind the green. There doesn’t appear to be any bunkers on the June 1932 MacKenzie Course Plan. The November 1932 Olmsted As-built indicates 4 with what appears to be two located behind the green, one between the creek and the green and an additional bunker near the bridge! (1) The 1933 green sketch shows two bunkers to the rear. (2) The General Plan on page 27 of the 1934 Programme shows 3 bunkers (3) which agrees with the illustration. (4)
Augusta National Golden Bell Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 13 – 510 Yards – Azalea
510 Yards – Par 5
Azalea Hole History
In 1934, Azalea was played as the 4th hole and measured 480 yards.
Azalea Hole Description
A dogleg left with a creek that adds strategic value. A sweeping shot shape right to left still gives an advantage.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
Alister invokes the 17th at Cypress Point as inspiration along with the ideal hole in CB Macdonald’s book. The hole? His own Lido! The extreme width must have provided the alternate routes
Azalea’s Evolution
Length was added by adding tees in 1955 and 2002. The creek has always added strategic value to the hole. Two lone trees stood in the fairway until 1976 when mowing lines were adjusted so they were on the edge.
This is a rare hole where bunkers have been removed. Originally there were five behind the green whereas there are now 4.
On television, the hole appears to be downhill. It is, however, essentially flat with regards to elevation gain and fall.
Deep Dive on Azalea’s Evolution at Augusta
A severe dogleg is how MacKenzie depicted the hole in his November 1931 Watercolour. It appears the strategy remained the same in June 1932 according to his Course Plan. (1) No bunkers appeared on either of his plans. The November 1932 Olmsted As-built shows two bunkers behind the green (See the 1932 Visual Overlay). The 1933 green sketches show no indication of bunkers (2) with the 1934 Programme illustration clearly showing five (3).
Augusta National Azalea Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 14 – Augusta National – Chinese Fir
440 Yards – Par 4
Chinese Fir Hole History
In 1934, the 425-yard hole was known as Spanish Dagger and played as the fifth.
Chinese Fir Hole Description
A bunker-less uphill two-shot hole.
Chinese Fir Trivia
The only hole at Augusta National that has no bunkers.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
MacKenzie patterned this hole after the 6th (Heathery Out) at St Andrews. On both holes, placing a tee shot as near as possible to the hazard gave a better line of sight to the green. Sadly, this element was bulldozed in the late 1990s.
Chinese Fir’s Evolution
The original centreline bunker was last carried in 1952. The tees were moved back in 2002 adding approx. 30 yards.
Deep Dive on Chinese Fir’s Evolution at Augusta
The November 1931 Watercolour indicates a carry bunker and a bunker to the rear of the green. The June 1932 Plan drops the greenside bunker. The 1932 Olmsted As-built confirms the decision. The green sketch dated 1933 appears to show a bunker to the rear of the green (1) whereas the 1934 Programme illustration (2) and General Plan (3) give no such indication. The carry bunker featured a knob or mound of turf similar to Simpson’s famous designs at Muirfield and New Zealand. It was it is also probable that a similar element was used on the 3rd and 18th!
Augusta National Chinese Fir Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 15 – Augusta National – Firethorn
530 Yards – Par 5
Firethorn Hole History
In 1934, the hole was known by the same name but spelt ‘Fire Thorn’. It played as the 6th and measured 530 yards.
Firethorn Hole Description
A slightly downhill three-shot hole that tempts you to go for it in two.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
All of the three-shot holes at Augusta National were designed to be reachable in two by the longest and most accurate of hitters. The water in front is to penalise the long-player who fails to make a perfect second.
Firethorn’s Evolution
The original green sketch labels the water in front as a stream. The picture in the 1934 Programme depicts it as a pond. MacKenzie also calls it a pond in the description of the hole.
The bunker to the right of the green was added in 1957. Originally, this was one of three bunker-less holes on the course, the others being 7 & 17.
Deep Dive on Firethorn’s Evolution at Augusta
MacKenzie used three trees strategically in the centre of the fairway! They now form the left side of the fairway. The November 1931 Watercolour shows no bunkers on the hole nor does the June 1932 Plan. The November 1932 Olmsted As-built shows the three trees and a stream routed in front of the green. The 1933 green sketch labels the water hazard as a stream (1). Of interest, the 1934 Programme shows the creek widened (2 & 3) and MacKenzie calls it a pond in the hole description.
Augusta National Firethorn Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 16 – Augusta National – Redbud
170 Yards – Par 3
Redbud Hole History
In 1934, Redbud was known by the same name but was spelt as Red Bud. It played as the 7th hole and was 145 yards long.
Redbud Hole Description
The current iteration is a short, downhill one-shot hole played over a large pond.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
The template for the original was the 7th at Stoke Park (Stoke Poges) near London, England.
Redbud’s Revolution
The original had the green to the left of a creek whereas it now plays completely over water to a green to the right of a pond. The most significant change made to any hole on the course. This is a new hole entirely.
Deep Dive on Redbud’s Revolution at Augusta
The original green as sketched by MacKenzie was Biarritz in nature with a channel or depression running through the middle of it. (1) The illustration in the 1934 Programme shows one bunker (2) with the diagram showing two. (3)
Augusta National Redbud Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 17 – Augusta National – Nandina
440 Yards – Par 4
Nandina Hole History
In 1934, Nandina measured 400 yards and played as the 8th.
Nandina Hole Description
A gentle uphill two-shot hole.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
MacKenzie again invokes The Old Course as inspiration. This time he uses the 14th in reverse as inspiration. The green needs to be approached from the right using a run-up shot.
Nandina’s Evolution
The original green was without a bunker. An upturned saucer running off in all directions made the ground approach the most successful. With the addition of front bunkers in 1937, the assault must now be made from above.
The original design was virtually treeless whereas it is now narrow and tree-lined. One of the most influential design changes on this hole was made by Mother Nature when an ice storm damaged the Eisenhower Tree resulting in its removal in 2014.
Deep Dive on Nandina’s Evolution at Augusta
The November 1931 Watercolour shows two fairway bunkers and a greenside bunker to the rear. Could the fairway bunkers have been MacKenzie’s Beardies & Hell? The June 1932 Course Plan appear to show no bunkers as is the case on the November 1932 Olmsted As-built. (1) The 1934 Programme illustration confirms no bunkers. (2) Of interest, the 1933 green sketch shows a 12-foot high mound on the front left of the green which would have made the approach from the left blind. (3) MacKenzie’s own illustration below the green sketch shows a single bunker to the rear. (4) This original concept appears not to have made it past this stage.
Augusta National Nandina Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
Hole 18 – Augusta National – Holly
465 Yards – Par 4
Holly Hole History
The closing hole of the outward nine in 1934, Holly was originally 420 yards.
Holly Hole Description
Uphill dogleg right with a tee shot over a valley.
Alister MacKenzie’s Original Design Strategy
MacKenzie explains the shot which is placed closer to the trees on the right of the fairway would be rewarded with a better line in. The centreline bunker remains a mystery as it was never in play off the tee or on the approach.
Holly’s Evolution
The overall intent of the hole remains intact.
The central fairway bunker seems to have been aesthetic rather than strategic for the best players even in the early years. This bunker has migrated down the slope to become a hazard on the outside of the dogleg needing 335 yards to carry.
Originally, the green was surrounded by mounds 8-10 feet in height. These have been removed to improve sightlines for patrons.
Deep Dive on Holly’s Evolution at Augusta National
An island is visible in the centre of the fairway bunker as per the 3rd and 14th! (1) The November 1931 Watercolour shows three bunkers, two wing bunkers left and right as well as one short in the fairway. The June 1932 MacKenzie Course Plan appears to show two tongues! One the right of the front bunker but also a tongue to the left! The November 1932 Olmsted As-built shows just the right tongue. (1) The 1933 Green Sketch shows just the right tongue (a rare deviation from the 1931 Watercolour) but with two bunkers left and right. (2) The Illustration in the 1934 Programme aligns with the 1932 Olmsted As-built showing a single tongue. (3)
Augusta National Holly Visual Overlay
Artist: Joe McDonnell
The Evolution of Augusta National
For most of us, the allure of Alister MacKenzie and Bobby Jones’ pinnacle is enhanced by the dramatics and perfection of the event year on year. Augusta National Golf Club is simply a wonder that captures the imagination and spirit of virtually all golfers.
Perhaps Dr Alister MacKenzie said is best when he wrote: ‘Excellence of design is mere felt than fully realised by the player, but nevertheless it is constantly exercising a subconscious influence upon him.’
Top 100 Golf Course rankings are popular and we love the discussion and buzz they produce. However, not all Top 100 Golf Course rankings are created equal. Below are a few of the rankings widely available and an overview of what makes them different and offer a suggestion of who may prefer which ranking.
National Club Golfer Top 100 Ranking
Newly published in 2020, the National Club Golfer Top 100 is a well-rounded Top 100 Ranking.
NCG Ranking Criteria
- 20% – Architecture & Design (Well-designed individual holes? Course as a whole? Is there a mix of strategic, penal and heroic holes?)
- 10% – Conditioning & Presentation (Turf & green quality plus consistency.)
- 10% – Consistency (Does the course get better during the round? Is the design harmonious?)
- 10% – Scenery, Surroundings & Ambience (Is the course attractive?)
- 10% – Playability (Enjoyable for the shorter hitter and higher handicapper?)
- 10% – Challenge (Does it challenge an elite golfer?)
- 10% – Variety (Does it test all facets of one’s game? Is it predictable? Does it require a variety of shot types?)
- 10% – Routing (Long walks between holes? Does it flow? Are holes sequentially different?)
- 10% – Charm, Distinctiveness & Memorability (Do you want to return? Can you remember the course?)
NCG Top 100 Golf Course Ranking Evaluation
The panel is smaller than most others with 8 members. 4 are single-digit golfers and the rest are better than bogey golfers. Course reviews are weighted to give more frequent and fresher visits greater worth. The panel is small and there are some bold takes – especially Skibo Castle ahead of 16 stalwarts in the Golf Top 100 in the World List! An excellent first Top 100 list, you would expect the panel to perhaps grow and rankings to be refined.
However, we love the fact the golf is what is rated as opposed to bits and pieces before the 1st tee and after the 18th green. The weighting and criteria are well balanced and are a great way for the amateur to analyse their own golf experience. The explanation of the criteria isn’t obscure nor does it leave much ambiguity. Seeing Royal Worlington slot in provides instant credibility to any ranking in our books. The panel was obviously willing to take risks and not be swayed by other rankings.
NCG Top 100 Ranking Is Best…
If you are a better golfer & only interested in the golf itself – National Club Golfer may be the ranking for you.
NCG Top 100 Ranking VS The Competition
NCG was the only ranking to leave off:
- Dumbarnie
- Walton Heath New
- Rosapenna St Patrick’s Links
- Broadstone
- Dundonald Links
NCG was the only ranking to include:
- Royal Worlington
- Luffness
- Elie
- Panmure
- Moray Old
- Gailes Links
- Dunbar
- Beau Desert
- Addington
Interesting observations:
- NCG is more bullish on Portmarnock, Skibo, Walton Heath Old, Western Gailes, The Island, Alwoodley, and Woking. (Equating to greater disparity in rank.)
- NCG is less bullish on Royal Dornoch, Sunningdale Old, Swinley Forest, Royal Porthcawl, and St Enodoc in the Top 50 than the other rankings. (Equating to greater disparity in rank.)
Golf Monthly Top 100 Ranking
A perennial powerhouse from a media titan, the Golf Monthly Top 100 Ranking is the ranking the commercial clubs driven by visitor income want to climb!
Golf Monthly Ranking Criteria
- 35% – Quality of Test & Design
- 30% – Conditioning & Presentation
- 15% – Visual Appeal (Internally & Externally)
- 10% – Club Facilities
- 10% – Overall Visitor Experience
Golf Monthly Top 100 Golf Course Ranking Evaluation
Beginning in 2004, the list has been compiled 8 times on a biennial review. They have tried to make the subjective selection process objective claiming they are fair as possible, adjusting for improvements and upgrades. They begin with the current Top 100 list and supplement it with 40-50 contenders. The assessors can play the courses in matches, society visits, or whilst off-duty with friends. There are three categories of panel members: Senior (3), Staff (10), and Reader (21). The Senior Panel ranges in age from 48-61 with handicaps from 6-14. The Staff Panel ranges in age from 23-62 with handicaps from 4-18. The Reader Panel ranges in age from 32-72 with handicaps from 2-18.
Up to 35% of the rating and therefore rank is based on characteristics other than the course itself. This isn’t right or wrong, just different. Internal Visual Appeal, Club Facilities, and Overall Visitor Experience are no doubt important to a club’s ranking but does it reflect where the golf course should be?
The ranking leaves off courses that are not pay-for-play. This would explain the exclusion of Queenwood, Beaverbrook, JCB & Loch Lomond.
Golf Monthly Top 100 Ranking Is Best…
If the overall golf experience is as important to you as the golf itself. You probably like The Masters and Augusta National more than The Open and the Open Rota Venues.
GM Top 100 Golf Course Ranking VS The Competition
Golf Monthly was the only ranking to leave off:
- Skibo
- Loch Lomond
- Machrihanish Dunes
- Ballyliffin Old
- Wentworth Club West
- Pennard
- St Andrews Castle
- Renaissance Club
- Hindhead
Golf Monthly was the only ranking to include:
- Woburn Marquess
- Sauton West
- Trevose
- Blairgowrie Rosemount
- Woburn Duke’s
- Ferndown
- Wallasey
- Murcar
- Woburn Duchess
- The Grove
- Mount Juliet
- Tandridge
- Gleneagles PGA Centenary
Interesting observations:
- Golf Monthly is more bullish on Royal Liverpool, The European, Castle Stuart, Adare Manor, Burnham & Berrow, Hillside, Hankley Common, Old Head, Hillside, Nairn, Hollinwell, Berkshire Red, Rosapenna Sandy Links, Western Gailes, Royal St David’s & Tralee in the Top 50 than the other rankings. (Equating to greater disparity in rank.)
- Golf Monthly is less bullish on North Berwick, Portmarnock, Prestwick, and Royal Cinque Ports in the Top 50 than the other rankings. (Equating to greater disparity in rank.)
Top 100 Golf Courses Rank
A digital powerhouse, the Top 100 Golf Course website is a go-to resource in the modern age.
Top 100 Golf Courses Rank Criteria
- 40% – Quality of Test & Design
- 30% – Visual Appeal and Enjoyment
- 30% – Presentation
Top 100 Golf Course Ranking Evaluation
A staple of the digital golf landscape, the raters appear to be decorated amateurs and professionals. One is also intrigued by the rules and algorithms used. The website uses trusted expert opinions from golfers who have played extensively in their country or territory. Rankings are usually done biennially using rules and algorithms. They consider the rankings to be honest, informed, and genuine. Club professionals & club champions are relied on heavily for their insight and opinions.
As golf club professionals & club champions are relied on heavily for their insight and opinions, we wonder if a club champion and professional could be biased in their appraisal? Do the criteria lend themselves to being more subjective? Does proficiency in playing the game and scoring well make you an authority on good golf?
Top 100 Golf Course Ranking Is Best…
If you are an accomplished golfer and you golf professionals and top amateurs are in a position to tell you what good golf is.
Top 100 Golf Course Ranking VS The Competition
Top 100 Golf Courses was the only ranking to leave off:
- Aldeburgh
- Royal North Devon
- Sherwood Forest
Top 100 Golf Courses was the only ranking to include:
- Ardfin
- Queenwood
- Narin & Portnoo
- Brora
- JCB
- New Zealand
- Delamere Forest
Interesting observations:
- Top 100 Golf Courses is more bullish on Ballybunion Old, Lahinch, Ganton, St Enodoc, and Wentworth West, in the Top 50 than the other rankings. (Equating to greater disparity in rank.)
- Top 100 Golf Courses is less bullish on Waterville, Royal Liverpool Hoylake, in the Top 50 than the other rankings. (Equating to greater disparity in rank.)
Today’s Golfer/ Golf World Top 100 Rank
Golf World is Today’s Golfer ranking label. Chris Bertrum has one of the most enviable and unenviable jobs in golf. Since taking over, the rank has been refined and massive shifts in rankings seen. The openness and candor are to be applauded. The majority of the panel are mid-handicap golfers. There are a couple of single-digit golfers and a single plus handicapper.
Today’s Golfer/ Golf World Rank Criteria
- 40% – Design (Landscape 20%, Greens 10%, Routing 10%)
- 15% – Setting & Atmosphere
- 15% – Memorability
- 10% – Playability (Is it tough or unfair?)
- 10% – Consistency
- 10% – Presentation
Today’s Golfer/ Golf World Ranking Evaluation
Let’s start with the positives – off-course facilities, customer service, and tournament pedigree are not factored into the rank. There is an attempt to evaluate and grade architectural merit as the panel is asked to reflect upon routing, green complexes, and strategy.
It is worth mentioning that a large proportion of the weight is given to landscape design, setting, atmosphere, and presentation. In fact, a whopping 45% is directly linked to these features.
Today’s Golfer/ Golf World Ranking Is Best…
For the average golfer looking for a fair rank. Overall, it is pretty to agree with most of the ranking with nothing egregious standing out. From 75 onwards, there are probably 50 clubs that are in with a legitimate chance.
Today’s Golfer/ Golf World Ranking VS The Competition
Top 100 Golf Courses was the only ranking to leave off:
- None fit this criterion. All courses appear on at least one other Top 100 Golf Course rank.
Top 100 Golf Courses was the only ranking to include:
- Castletown
Consensus Top 100 List
Between the three rankings evaluated (National Club Golfer, Today’s Golfer/ Golf World, Golf Monthly, and Top 100 Golf Courses) here is the Consensus Top 100 (which numbers 79):
Golf Course Formerly on at Least One Rank
Wentworth East
Royal Ashdown Forest
Castletown Golf Links
The Belfry Brabazon
Druids Glen
Remedy Oak
Lough Erne
Close House Lee Westwood Colt
Golf Course Rankings Evaluated Conclusion
Top 100 Golf Course rankings are subjective and we applaud all of the above for publishing their criteria for evaluating a Top 100 Golf Course. While the list here is not exhaustive, it does give you a basis for ranking the rankings…
What We Predict For 2024
The Addington will continue to rise. The second course at Castle Stuart will open to rave reviews. Tom Doak’s St Patrick’s will continue to rise both in the world ranks and in the GB&I. Top 100 Golf Course rankings will be as popular as ever.
What We Would Like to See
A review of Golf Monthly’s Rank. It would appear Golf Monthly is lagging behind with regard to the current tastes in golf course design, and presentation. There is a 22% discrepancy between their rank and everyone else… If you like parkland golf at posh resorts, Golf Monthly is a decent bet for you…
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration for Augusta National came from 9 outstanding holes on 5 top golf courses in England and Scotland for his work at the Augusta National Golf Club.
During the final stages of the construction project, Dr Alister MacKenzie wrote a description of the course. Alister waxes lyrical about ‘Bob’ and his contributions that would lead this course to become the world’s most wonderful inland golf course. Pointing out that St Andrews is the ideal course and the one Bob likes best of all, MacKenzie makes known there were no templates used here. Mackenzie points out a mental picture of the world’s best holes was essential and it was the features of these that were reproduced or improved upon. There are no copies but rather classical holes which embody their best features.
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration for Augusta National
In the 1934 First Annual Invitation Tournament Programme, Alister MacKenzie wrote a brief description of the holes and where the inspiration came from. The first number listed refers to the current numbering of the course. Enjoy the Travel Guide that was Alister MacKenzie’s Augusta Inspiration.
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration for Augusta National Hole 4
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration: Eden High Out 11 at St Andrews Old Course
- The inspiration for the fourth was the Eden at The Old Course. The main element identified by MacKenzie were the subtle and severe slopes. One theory on the famous tongue propounded by Brian Schneider, is it was not a pin-able but rather allowed firm turf conditions for a running shot.
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration for Augusta National Hole 5
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration: Road 17 at St Andrews Old Course
- The Road Hole in reverse. The Hotel (Railway & Drying Sheds) was replaced by a group of trees at the dogleg. The dogleg at Augusta is from right to left as opposed to left to right at St Andrews. It may be surprising the element taken from the green complex was not the bunker nor the road but rather the plateau the green sat on.
Augusta National Hole 6 – Juniper
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration: Redan 15 at North Berwick Golf Club – West Links
- A pure Redan. MacKenzie, however, believes his is much more attractive due to the visibility, lie of the land, and beauty of the surroundings. The back right was so pronounced, it soon came to be called the buried elephant.
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration for Augusta National Hole 7
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration: 18 at St Andrews Old Course
- The design element from the 18th at The Home of Golf is the Valley of Sin. A deep hollow at the front of the green means it is necessary to approach the green from right. Again, a run-up shot was the required shot.
Augusta National Hole 8 – Yellow Jasmine
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration: 17 at Muirfield (HCEG)
- Largely uphill, rising up 76 feet over 500 yards, the green becomes visible for the third shot. The green was originally couched in a punchbowl reminiscent of the 17th at Muirfield.
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration for Augusta National Hole 10
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration: 13 at Cypress Point & 4 at Alwoodley Golf Club
- Described as an easy downhill hole, there is a 102-foot drop in elevation from tee to green! The green was originally a punchbowl. A drive right needed to clear hillocks and the approach shot in was with the length of the green. A tee shot to the left meant an approach over a large spectacular bunker.
Augusta National Hole 14 – Chinese Fir
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration: 6 at St Andrews Old Course
- Elements of the 6th hole at The Old Course are clearly in play. Uphill by 90 feet, a drive over the bunker on the right opens up the green. Left and short off the tee leaves a partially blind approach over hillocks and hollows.
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration for Augusta National Hole 16
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration: 7 at Stoke Park (Stoke Poges)
- The template is the 7th at Stoke Park. MacKenzie felt the hole had been improved as the green was more visible and the background more appealing. The hole plays very slightly downhill losing only 10 feet or so in elevation.
Augusta National Hole 17 – Nandina
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration: 14 at St Andrews Old Course
- The element taken from Long at The Old Course is the green itself – but in reverse. Bobby Jones famously played 14 long and pitched back up the green. The ideal line into the green on 17 was not from the left but rather from the right. The hole was designed to cater to a running shot to achieve par.
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration for Augusta National Conclusion
Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration for Augusta National can be traced back to these 5 famous courses in the UK and Ireland. Some of these elements still exist and others have been lost due to advancement and change at Augusta National.
Further Reading on Alister MacKenzie’s Inspiration for Augusta National
An excellent resource on the changes at Augusta is the 2017 Golf Digest article entitled: The Complete Changes To Augusta National with illustrations done by Chris O’Riley.
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 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.
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 * 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.
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.
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.
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…
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?
Further Reading on Bunkerless Golf Courses
A very interesting read is Ian Andrew’s ‘A Complete Look at Bunkering’
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.
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.