Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club – Episode #10
Posted on 14. Jul, 2009 by Andy Brown in Golf
In this episode I visited Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club, the oldest surviving golf course in the world.
The Course
The Old Course at Musselburgh is a 9 hole, par 34 links golf course, located in the heart of Musselburgh, just miles 3 from Edinburgh and surrounded by Musselburgh Racecourse.
The course was originally 7 holes, another hole was added in 1838 and then the full 9 holes came into play in 1870. I really enjoyed walking round the historic course taking a look at the layout and in particular I wanted to see the infamous 4th hole, “Mrs Foremans”. It’s named after the pub, Mrs Foreman’s Inn, which sits behind the 4th green and where in years gone by refreshments could be passed to golfers through a hatch in the wall of the pub adjacent to the green – the perfect halfway house!
The history of Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club
I met up with Robin McGregor, the Secretary of Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club, who told me about the history of the course and how it had come to pass that Musselburgh Links was officially recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s oldest golf course.
Documentary evidence shows that golf was played on Musselburgh Links since 1450 and Mary, Queen of Scots even reputedly played there in 1567. However, there are no definitive records of this other than the one in 1672 when someone actually recorded play. Robin explained to me that the record comes from an Edinburgh accountant, called Sir John Fowles, who recorded in his account book on that date that he played at Musselburgh Old Course and lost the huge amount of £3 5/–.
The Open
This great historic golf course played host to six Open Championships between 1874 and 1889. It was one of the three original venues for The Open, the others being Prestwick and St Andrews.
Not many people know that Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club has produced 5 Open champions, who managed to win the Open 11 times between them. Robin pointed out engravings of each of the winners on the front of the clubhouse. Firstly there was the very first winner of the Open in Prestwick in 1860, Willie Park Snr. He won the Open 4 times in total, all at Prestwick. His brother Mungo won the first Open played at Musselburgh in 1874. His son Willie Park Jnr also won two Opens, one of which was the very last open to be held at Musselburgh Old Course in 1889. Also depicted on the clubhouse wall are Open champions David Brown who won in 1886 and Bob Ferguson, who had a unique feat of winning 3 successive Opens in 1880 1881 and 1882.
Musselburgh’s infamous drainpipes
If you’re like me then at some stage in your golfing past you will have lipped out a putt and wished that the size of the hole on the green was just a bit larger. Well, in this episode Robin pointed out to me the culprit responsible for the size of standard golf holes – a drainpipe outside the clubhouse!
Robin explained to me the historical significance of the drainpipes in golfing history. Back in 1829 Robert Grey invented the first hole-cutting machine. To do this he used the first thing to hand which happened to be a piece of Musselburgh Clubhouse drainpipe. The drainpipe has affected every golf course that has ever been built, and ever likely to be built in the future as in 1891 the R & A made the four and a quarter inch diameter hole size mandatory by incorporating it into their Rules of Golf.
Prior to the standardization of the hole in 1891 the hole size could be anything depending on the golf course you played on. So if you ever miss a putt because the hole is too small you can blame Musselburgh’s drainpipes for being too small!
The Musselburgh Clubhouse
The Clubhouse is located within 50 yards of the course. Robin gave me a tour of the Clubhouse during my visit and it’s certainly a beautiful original period Clubhouse. It was originally built in 1873 and despite its modern facilities it has managed to retain its casual elegance and inspiring atmosphere as you mingle amongst pictures of some of our greatest golfing forefathers. As well as being a Clubhouse steeped in history it also provides you with a welcoming place to share a few drinks after a round of golf or enjoy a delicious meal served by their chef.
The Musselburgh Challenge
On the day of filming Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club was playing host to the 10th Musselburgh Challenge.
This is spectacular event where all of the competitors use period golf clubs, some of which will have been originally made at Musselburgh at the turn of the 20th century. The idea behind the challenge was to not only raise the profile of Musselburgh as the oldest golf course in the world, but also to encourage all of the clubs who have had an association with Musselburgh Old Course over the years to join together to compete for the trophy.
Clubs competing in the Musselburgh Challenge included Prestwick, The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, The Honorable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, Royal Musselburgh and Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club.
The format for the competition was foursomes golf and each club is represented by four players, who represent a joint total which determines who wins the competition. During this well organized gala event the golfers all play in a time preserved fashion by using hickory shafted golf clubs and gutta percha golf balls.
Robin pointed out to me that in 2007 the Royal & Ancient of St Andrews entered this competition and they won it – the first team competition that their club has ever won during its 250 year history!
This year it was The Royal Musselburgh Golf Club who won the trophy with an impressive score of 83.
The results are as follows:
Winners: The Royal Musselburgh Golf Club. Richard Bush, Arthur Reid, Ian Gordon & David Lindsay
Runners Up: The British Golf Collectors Society. John Rigg, Steven Doyle, Jim Colville & Scott Patrick
Third Place: The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers. Alistair Low, Alistair Brown, Henry Fairweather & Peter Thomson
Hickory clubs
During my time at Musselburgh I also took the opportunity to chat with John Rigg of the British Golf Collectors Society and Eddie Whoriskey who is the Captain at Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club. With them I discussed how amazing it is to visit a golf course which has so much history poured into it and what a great opportunity it presents to everyday golfers like myself for us to tread in the footsteps of famous past golfing champions.
We also talked about the growth in popularity of hickory tournaments. I could see for myself as I watched the teams participate in the Challenge what a unique golfing experience using hickory clubs presented to the modern golfer. As John quite rightly pointed out to me, we have all this new advanced golf technology and equipment yet what a lot of golfers want is to go back to basics and experience the game as it used to be played.
If you like the idea of playing The Musselburgh Old Course the way your golf forefathers did then you can rent a set of hickory golf clubs from the Clubhouse for a small fee. I thoroughly recommend playing at the World’s Oldest Golf Course. For a totally unique experience you should leave your own golf clubs in the trunk of your car and challenge yourself to 9 holes of golf using hickory clubs.
Becoming a member at Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club
During our interview Robin told me that Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club are offering a unique opportunity for golfers from anywhere in the world to become members of Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club for only £85 per year. For this moderate fee new members receive a stunning presentation box containing everything a new member needs, including merchandise bearing the club crest such as a leather membership bag tag, leather key ring, repairer/ ball marker, a replica gutta-percha golf ball, a super high quality colour booklet detailing Musselburgh’s rich history, a personalized certificate of membership and most importantly you gain the right to play golf at the world’s oldest golf course.
This fantastic package allows you to be associated with the oldest golf course in the world and walk in the footsteps of your great golf forefathers who graced these links in the past. This is a unique opportunity and an absolute must for golfers worldwide to become part of golfing history!
For full details on how to apply to become a member visit their website.
Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club
10 Balcarres Road
Musselburgh
East Lothian
Scotland
EH21 7SD
Telephone Number 0131-665-6981
Fax Number 0131-653-1770
Website: mocgc.com
Email: Secretary@mocgc.com
Finally the Question of the Day:
Where do you play your golf and how old is your golf course? Leave your comments below and we’ll have fun reading them!
mike broutsas
20. Aug, 2010
Andy–
Not sure this link is still alive–no postings in a long time. Last year at this time I was in the middle of my cancer treatments–chemo followed by 35 radiation and 7 more chemos–my wife promised that if I got thru OK we’d come back to Scotland—doing very well—flying over 9/23 for 8 or 9 days in Inverness and St. Andrews areas—would like to buy you a pint to thank you for the diversions of your website while I was under the weather.
Mike Broutsas
Ian Kay
31. Dec, 2009
I played this course when I was a boy. I remember finding a golf ball in some heather which had lots of raised bumps on it and stamped The Musselburgh Ball. I thought it was an old tattie and tossed it into the sea. How I wish I had kept it as I am sure it would be worth money. Silly boy. Have had over 50 years to reflect on my stupidity.
Now play at Liberton Golf Club in Edinburgh. Had my fifth hole in one this year to gain my Sunday Post Willie Auchterlonie hickory putter. There’s life in the old dog yet.
José Rolz
04. Aug, 2009
Dear Andy:
Great video on historic Musselburgh. I really treasure the history of golf and all the sites that are laden with traditions of our great game.
I play at the Mayan Golf Club in Guatemala City, Guatemala. Our club was founded in 1918 by employees of the Railroad which was being built in those days; with asphalt and sand “greens”.
The club moved to a new site in 1937; and when the city encroached the course, it was moved in 1964 to its present site overlooking Lake Amatitlan , sourrounded by volcanos and mountains. Its plays to a rating of 74.2, with a slope of 135 from the championship tees. A great track for serious golfers.
Keep up the good work ; really enjoy it.
Best regards,
José Rolz
Guatemala City, Guatemala
Tom Brindley
28. Jul, 2009
I play my golf at Belton Park Golf Club. I have been a member there fo 12 years, ever since I took an early retirement from my job at the time. I was a member of Rutland County GC at the time I was working, and lived at Grantham. When I retired it was just too far to travel and join in the activities. So! I resigned and joined Belton Park . I have been quite happy to be a part of the Seniors set up.
Steve Whayne
26. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy, I play mostly at Crooked Tree Golf Club (est. 1986) in Mason, Ohio, but you recently saw me putt out on the 18th Hole at The Old Course in St. Andrews, and then we had a Bellhaven at Dunvegan’s!!
Cheers,
Steve Whayne
Cincinnati, Ohio
Andy’s Reply:
Great to meet up with you Steve, when’s your next trip over?!
Cheers
Andy
Pat Kearney
20. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy,
Enjoyed the video very much, appreciate the efforts you put in, in providing us the with a unique insight to our beautiful game!
i am a member at Easter Moffat GC located near Airdrie North Lanarkshire, founded in 1922 it is a mixture of moorland and parkland with one of the best 18th hole ( I believe) you will find anywhere, a 123 yrd par 3 with elevated tee, ( beautiful) your welcome anytime for a game
keep up the good work Andy
Cheers
Pat
Steve
20. Jul, 2009
I was very interested in your video as the friend who started me off in golf – Ian Romanis, a former 2 handicap golfer for the RAF – learned his golf at Musselburgh as a lad. I didn’t take the game up until my 40′s but live for it now and play at Ham Manor in West Sussex which was designed by Harry Colt and opened in 1936. Tommy Horton was the pro here for many years.
s.carson
20. Jul, 2009
Thanks, Andy,
Watching the Open Championship at Turnberry, I heard one of the commentators admitting curiosity about a question that has puzzled me for some time.
I realised that 41/4 inches had to be representative of some widely accesible piece of equipment of the time.
I had assumed it must have been a farming implement or farrier’s tool. How wrong i was ~ the downpipe ~ how simple.
Fantastic . Keep improving my education on the greatest game.
I’m currently Lady Captain at Drumpellier G.C. established in 1894 ( I’m sure one the members would have known had I know whom to ask…….)
Mrs Dorothy Gunnersen
19. Jul, 2009
A really interesting video. My husband & I play at Newbury & Crookham Golf Club, The original Crookham course dates from 1873 but was amalgated with the Newbury club when the Greenham air base was built in WW2.
George McNeill
19. Jul, 2009
Hello Andy,
I am 81 years old and first played the old course at Musselburgh in 1937 with my eldest brother.Having been born in Tranent this was the most accessable course on which we could learn to play the game. I now play occasionally at West Cornwall as I now live in Penzance.
Robin McGregor
18. Jul, 2009
It was a pleasure to welcome you to Musselburgh. We enjoyed having you with us.
I have noted some comments from your viewers wishing to play The Old Course with hickories and gutta-percha balls. If they intend visiting please contact me and I will make the arrangements for them to do so. It is a great experience and something that lives long in the memory.
I’m very pleased to see so many positive responses to your video and would thank all those who took the time to share their views.It is important to us Musselburgh’s important contribution to the game is not forgotten. It is encouraging to see so many are interested and wish us well.
tommy ward
17. Jul, 2009
hi andy i play at longley park golf club in huddersfield its a hundred years old next year good luck
Malcolm Tidmarsh
17. Jul, 2009
Hello Andy,
Thank you for your video Musselburgh Golf Club.
What a history to be proud of it is great to see such golfing
traditions preserved and played.
I play at Wyre Forest Golf Club at Stourport on Severn in
Worcestershire. It is very much a junior club in comparison to Musselburgh having been in existance for only approx
15 years. However we are known as being a very friendly
club particularly the Senior section to which I belong.
Best Wishes.
Bill Whittaker
17. Jul, 2009
My Friend and I played the course earlier this year. In fact we played Royal Musselborough in the am and Old Musselborough in the pm. It was a great pleasure to play the old course and to think of the origins of the game, I wish we could have played with hickory clubs. Our club (Abergele, North Wales) is a 100 years old in 2010. I sincerely hope we last as long as you have.
Alan Harpley
17. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy,
I’ve often wondered about the old golf balls. How do they compare with today’s ? Enjoyed the Musselburgh item very much. When I began playing at the age of 14 I had a set of Josh Taylor wooden shafted clubs before “graduating” to steel shafted ones. I wish I still had my first ones.
That was 57 years ago. I gave up playing when I went to College but was persuaded to return 5 years ago. I’m playing better than I did when young. My club is Akebar GC between Leyburn and Patrick Brompton, North Yorkshire. We’re a very keen bunch of seniors, playing every Wednesday winter and summer. Five of us – all over 70 – played in 5 degrees below zero on one occasion ! The vintage scene appeals to me. I even turn up in my 1931 Alvis at times.
I may well contact Musselburgh and organise a group to go up and play. So thanks for that. – Keep taking the “pills”.
Alan
Ronald Parsons
17. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy,
Yes really enjoyed learning all about the oldest golf course Mussellburgh.Our course Ballina NSW Australia has just celebrated 100 years.Greg Norman won the club championship when he just started golf.Ballina has only a population of 18000.
Ron P.
darren murphy
16. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy,
I am not a member of a golf club but i play alot at eastham lodge golf club on the wirral merseyside.And me an a few others travel around abit 2 play new courses with good challenges mainly private courses better looked after im hopin 2 play on the trilby tour nxt year so i hope 2 play some really lovely courses.I liked the look of musselburgh old course maybe its a trip there soon.thanx for all your help via email i started handycap of 15 an people sayin i most prob play off roughly 6-7 thanx to you cheers andy your a big help to my game im 26 now but wud still love an try my best to make pro or semi.Once again thanx darren
Steve Gouault
16. Jul, 2009
Hey there Andy,I am a member of the Gordonvale Golf Club in Far North Queensland Australia. She is not the greatest but challenging non the less. Built in the 1950s
Leslie
16. Jul, 2009
We are going to visit the U K soon and Iam looking forward to visit some of the golf clubs you have shown us .I play at Maungakiekie Auckland New Zealand who are celebrateing 100 years this October
TheGolfClub
16. Jul, 2009
Enjoy your enthusiasm and your interview style. I’d be equally thrilled to know Old Tom’s great great-grandson left a comment.
Don Hemminger
15. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy, Great vedio on the old course at Musseburgh. I play golf at Bowling Green Golf Course in Bowling Green Ohio.
Rich Czuprynski
15. Jul, 2009
Have never had the chance to play any golf in Ireland. My first outing was 1959 with a set of wilson clubs. 2 woods, 6 irons,Nice set. A golf bag bought at a garage sale. Had to buy 12 balls and a bag of tees. I was in the White Sands area so there was plenty of catus, sand and very little grass. I played at a course at Hickem Air Force Base. Not Knowing what to expect I toolalong 3 sandwhichs 4 Buds and a snake bit kit. Played my game in 3 hour and some and did get to eat my food and drink my drinks as I played. I was by myself although several 4 somes had passed me.Oh I do recall shooting a 112 for 9 holes. Just started to play again after some 45 years layoff. Now in 2 yrs plus I’m in the 110 range.With your instruction I hope to be in the low 90′s or better. For a 76 year old its a good goal to shop for.
Ian Mckendry
15. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy,
I play at the Riverside Golf Course, Sardis, Ohio. Great to see Musselburgh, dad was born just up the road in Ormiston.
Enjoyed the St. Andrews video too………………….must be getting home sick!
Ian
carole cutner
15. Jul, 2009
Interesting video – thank you. I too play on a famous 9 hole course in London at Hampstead; its over 100 years old and is a very friendly place and a wonderfully cared for course.
I’ve been a member for about 25 years.
keith hogg
15. Jul, 2009
i stay just down the road from Musselburgh in Bonnyrigg and i am a member of Broomieknowe golf club. I am also a member of Royal Dornoch, which is steeped in history and recognised as one of the finest courses in the world. Would be good to see a feature done on Royal Dornoch, but it is a bit of a trek! Keep up the good work
mike preston
15. Jul, 2009
My membership is at Arnprior sandpoint golf club. founded in 1924
Fred Evors
15. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy,
I play at the Olde Course at Cobbs’ Creek in Philadelphia. I live in the suburbs and it is only a 15-20 drive for me. I also work there part time as the Starter. Cobbs is famous world wide. We have had golfers from almost every country play there. It was designed by Hugh Wilson in 913 ate the same time he was designing Merion East. (Merion now has 2 courses. It is a very expensive private club.) We also have another 18 hole course (KaraKung) at the propery Both courses are city owned. Thanks
Fidenciano
15. Jul, 2009
Andy,
You have done it again ! Brilliant presentation and thoroughly riveting. I play at the Burswood Golf Course and it was built in the latter part of the 20th century. Originally home to a cement works and garbage dump. It is a baby compared to Musselburgh.
Dan Brown
15. Jul, 2009
My home course is Oak Ridge, Ontario Canada.
It is fairly new.
Would love to play Musselburgh!
william
15. Jul, 2009
Great show andy would have liked to see you play one of the holes with the hickory being in a golf society we play differant courses have played castlerock on the north coast Northern Ireland great veiws and history
many thanks
william
causeway coast NI
Thomas Ridinger
15. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy,
The course I play on was founded in the 1950′s. It is on a Naval Base. It has it’s tough holes that keep you humble. But I did get my first and only so far hole in one on 12 24 05.
Stephen Day
15. Jul, 2009
I play at the West Bromwih Dartmout Golf Coarse in the West Midlands.The coarse is100 years old in 2010.The committee are organising several events throughout the year to mark theoccasion.
Great vidio,thanks.
Rob Walters
15. Jul, 2009
I play Dutcher Golf course alot right here in our hometown. It is the oldest public 9 hole course in the USA. Short tight course but enjoyable because of the history.
Mike Uhlenberg
15. Jul, 2009
Hi andy,i play at howick ,a course in auckland new zealand.Im 46 and played for 25 years,only a few times yearly,till i joined last year at howick.Im good at sports,made rep teams in rugby,tenis,cricket & a few others but golf is something different.Im stuck in the 90s but will persist on my game.Thanks for the tips.
John McPherson
15. Jul, 2009
Hello Andy,
That was very interesting. I play at Fraserburgh G.C. founded 1777 the 7th. oldest golf course in the world. you can visit the website at fraserburghgolfclub.org for more information.
Melvin Song
15. Jul, 2009
I am a Malaysian. I usually play golf at my local club, Pulai Springs Resort in Johor Bahru. My club recenty hosted an Asian PGA event, it was quite a big news here.
Thanks for showing us the old course, i wish i could bring my father there for a round of golf some day.
Kathleen McGowan
15. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy, I play at Ballybofey & Stranorlar Golf Club, Co. Donegal, Ireland. Established in 1957. Initially the course was nine hole. In the absence of a clubhouse the first presentations were made from the back of a tractor! An old wooden and corrugated iron clubhouse was soon bought and proved to be a great success in the formative years of the club with many a lively night and stories told – a friendly, hospitable atmosphere that still thrives today. Now 18 holes, one of the best parkland courses in the country and still very friendly. Do come and visit us.
mike sanders
15. Jul, 2009
I have just returned to Hong Kong from Colombo Sri Lanka where I played three great rounds at my club the Royal Colombo Golf Club.
At 129 years old we are the second oldest Royal outside of the UK, Calcutta being the oldest.
Take a look at our site and see the beautiful colonial clubhouse with a huge verandah which is perfect for that 19th hole tincture.
http://www.rcgcsl.com/
Keep the stories coming Andy I do enjoy them.
Robert Haward
15. Jul, 2009
Thanks for the insert. I play golf at Witbank Golf Club in Mpumalanga, fortunately we are blesseb with the most moderate weather in the world and have numerous good golf coarses in the vacinity
Rex Bergin
15. Jul, 2009
I play my golf at Wickepin in Western Australia our course was built in the 1930s. Nowhere near as old as the old course we watched on the video.Very good presentation. Thanks
Bud
15. Jul, 2009
Very much enjoy your videos and down home style..damn the drain pipes!!..started golf late thought it would be easy played alot of tennis,baseball etc….thought I knew how to control the flight of a ball …guessed wrong!
I play on the Canadian prairies at my home course started in 1929 (my grandfather was the second president of the club) in the summer and Phoenix in the winter. I enjoy a persistant slice which I am trying to cure with your help but I may need more tips and a new swing!! Help!
Larry Quah
15. Jul, 2009
Andy,
Thanks again for this wonderful video and the knowledge that Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club is the oldest in the World. I play my golf in Sembawang Country Club. This course started as a 9-hole when the RAF was here in Singapore and it is now a full 18, the other 9 being added when the Singapore Armed Forces took it over after the British Forces pulled out from the far East. When I was in London in 1985, I played a game organised by the Malaysian Defence Attache’s office and met a fellow Singaporean in that game. When he asked where I played in Singapore and I said “Sembawang”, he replied “Oh, the Commando Course!”. That’s the moniker for my home club. Some British returned servicemen may fondly remember it as that too!
Emi Castaneda
15. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy,
I love you video although the audio needs some improvements. Good to know about the oldest golf club and the golf clubs & balls that were used in the olden times. I am from the Philippines and I play in different golf clubs as I am a golf tournament organizer.
Filipinos love to play the game of golf. To accommodate the thousands of golfers out here we have built more than 150 golf courses all over the country, with at least 50 world class courses designed by famous professional golfers such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Niclaus and Garry Player, to name a few. To top it all, the courses are playable all-year-round, The oldest golf course, which was built by the american during the 2nd world war, is situated in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo. Phils.
If you will have a chance to come and visit the Philippines, send me an email and I will be more than willing to show you around.
Emi,
Jim Henderson
15. Jul, 2009
Andy,
Interesting video and history. I understand there is a fellow at the Golf Museum in Regensburg, Germany who has documented, in a recent book, his claim that golf was first played in Holland. No evidence of a golf club though.
I play golf at Avondale, Sydney, Australia. Dates only back to 1926. But a hidden gem in Sydney. Worth checking its website. Regards.
Russell Harden
15. Jul, 2009
I am a member of Jefferson-Lakeside Country Club in Richmond, Virginia. A Donald Ross designed course established in 1914.
Mario Ucrós
15. Jul, 2009
I play in three diferent courses located in Bogotá (and outskirts),Colombia: The first one (Aposentos Private condominium) is a par 71, with 9 holes in flat land and 9 holes in the mountain (very difficult holes with gorgeous view). the course oppened in 1995. The second one which is close by Called “El Rincon” private club, par 72 designed by Robert Trent Jones, once ranked among the top 50 courses in the world opened in 1960., And the third one is located in the city of Bogota “Country club” (private club) hosts one of the tournaments of the “European Challenge tour”, this is par 72 in flat land with a lot of water built in 1950
Phil Tasker
15. Jul, 2009
What a sensational video, i would dearly love to play on the golf course using traditional golf clubs.
I am a member at Melville Glades Golf Club which is celebrating its 40th Birthday this year.
Melville is situated some 15 minites south of Perth in Western Australia.
The club has a great atmosphere and has been currently undergoing some course renovations. Visitors cannot believe the amount of wildlife, mainly kangaroos that can be seen at a metropolitan golf course.
Bruce Hein
15. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy, I enjoy your videos immensely. My golf course is Long Reef in Sydney Australia. A links course designed by Peter Thompson and takes up the whole of a headland jutting out into the pacific ocean. It has been described by Peter Thompson as the most idyllic place to have a golf course. Check us out on http://www.lrgc.com.au
george peterson
15. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy!
I live in a retierment comunity of approx.30,000 people loated about 30 miles nw of Phoenix arizona we have 7 courses to play on these have been built starting in the late seventies I am 80 + years of age and play bogie golf.the vidieo was very intersting unfortunately I don’tthink I will be making a trip there in the nearfuture george
Laurie O'Connor
14. Jul, 2009
Thoroughly enjoyable video, love the History, hate the drainpipe – I am amember at Kwinana Golf Club who is “Celebrating 50 years in 2009″
Kwinana is an A grade championship golf course set in a picturesque valley. We are well known for being a relaxed and friendly club with the full benefits of belonging to a private golf club or you can play as a green fee player.
Situated south of Perth, Western Australia.
andy, twitter meet up organiser
14. Jul, 2009
Royal Dalmilling, and where you are off to tomorrow night. Ayr Belleisle, also Troon Lochgreen and Darley
Melvyn Hunter Morrow
14. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy
As always totally enjoy your site and am spreading the word.
Just a couple of quick note to
1) Steven Phillips who posted a comment earlier re Forfar G C. The original course was by Old Tom Morris in 1871 with Braid doing modifications, as I understand it in the mid 1920’s. These mods. left many holes unchanged with adjustment to Tee positions and remodelling some of the hazards accordingly. I hope to be writing to Forfar GC soon to see if it has any actual documentation re Old Tom. .
Forfar was one of Old Tom’s early designs after Prestwick, Royal North Devon, Perth, Lundin, then Forfar a couple of years before returning to Carnoustie (his second visit).
2) Mick B also who posted from Royal Guernsey GC. I also hope to contact your club soon to obtain information of Old Tom’s visit to your club in Nov. 1894 to re-design the then existing course. I believe while he was on the island he also undertook a private commission for Lord de Saumarez for a 9 hole course at his home. Mick do you have any info on this old course – is it closed or still open?
Thanks Andy – Sorry Steven & Mick, I am Old Tom’s great, great grandson hence my search for information.
Melvyn
John Heanaghan
14. Jul, 2009
Good day from New Zealand,
Before I came to NZ I played my golf at the St. Annes Old Links Golf Club which was found in 1901. However the links are much older as the club was formed to play over the “Old Links” vacated by what is now the Royal Lytham and St.Annes G C when they moved to their present location. I now play at the Akarana Golf Club in Auckland NZ which dates back to 1927.
Mike Cawker
14. Jul, 2009
I play my golf at Dalewood Golf & Country Club Port Hope Canada.This course is a parkland course of about 6500 yards with a creek you must carry off the tee 8 x over the course of the round.The course is semi-private and is run like a private club.
Brian Bast
14. Jul, 2009
Andy, I will play anywhere they will let me. Annual boys golf trip is heading to Tucson, AZ in Sept. looking forward to playing desert golf for the first time.
Tony McCann
14. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy would love to play that course especially with the old clubs.. I play my golf in bodenstown in kildare ireland.
Jack JONES
14. Jul, 2009
I enjoyed the old course history. I play at McCormick Ranch
Golf course in Scomttsdale Az. There are two 18 hole courses. The course were built in 1977 and are in the heart Scottsdale Arizona.
Greg Dayman
14. Jul, 2009
I play at the Auckland Golf Club, NZ which was established in1894.
A very interesting and enjoyable clip. The commentary and presentation speaches at the end were great!
Clive Wood
14. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy,I play at a pay and play near Manchester, the course was badly neglected and almost closed but happily a new owner is on the scene and doing wonders with it. However what we lack in on course and clubhouse (an old barn) cosmetics we more than make up for with the members. We are a “blue collar” club and I think thats what makes it special. Drop me an email, arange a visit and you will be made very welcome
Daniel Todd
14. Jul, 2009
Love the history stuff. i play at a nine hole country club nottoway river club .it is a well keep club very challenging well worth a trip if never been also play at the Manor Resort 18 hole 2007 best new golf course golf digest manor resort .com //and nottoway river country club .com the manor resort golf club is also open to the public in farmville va.
joe piechowski
14. Jul, 2009
Andy, Enjoyed the video on Musselburgh Old Course. Having spent some time in Europe I can appreciate the history and pride of such a fine club. Thanks, Joe
Roger Matthews
14. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy,
Many thanks for forwarding information, detail, videos etc, all very interesting and informative. I play my golf at Oake Manor, between Taunton and Wellington here in Somerset. The course is 16 years old, we have our Founders day on 26th August. The course has water on 10 of the holes and can be quite demanding when the wind blows. If you are ever in the area, please call in and you will be made very welcome.
derek moir
14. Jul, 2009
I play murcar at aberdeen it is our centenery this year thanks for your interesting vieo
John B.
14. Jul, 2009
I’m an American who is living and working in China. I play Golf at Qingcheng Mtn. Golf Course and another just south of Chengdu. Chinese golf courses are top notch. I actually play most of the time with a Scottsman named Gavin. He kicks my ass on the score every time. It’s very frustrating but my scores are coming down. I haven’t broken the news to him that I’m getting golf tips from one of his fellow countryman. When I finally get a lower score than him, I’ll tell him where I’m getting tips, just to add a little salt to the wound.
martyn
14. Jul, 2009
I play at Radyr Golf Club in Cardiff South Wales and its over 100 yrs old
John ODonnell
14. Jul, 2009
Hi i am a member of the City of Derry golf club here in sunny Northern Ireland, the club was formed in 1912 (same year as the titanic) so we are already making plans for our centenery celebrations, the late great Fred Daly was our resident professional (first irishman to win The OpenChampionship) Fred joined us in 1939 for wages of £3/10 shillings a week ,free house and free coal, a substansial rise from his last job at lurgan golf club of £2 per week and the crowning glory was that Fred didnt have to cut the greens like he had to at lurgan, Cant imagine Tiger and co cutting greens, alas Fred left us to go to balmoral golf club in 1945 for the pricely sum of £5 per week a record back then and 2 years later he won the claret jug, if only he had stayed
Ron Johnson
14. Jul, 2009
I play at Hannastown Golf Club in Greensburg Pennsylvania. This is about 30 miles southeast from Pittsburgh. The course was built in 1919 by Thomas Jamison and the Jamison Coal company with 9 holes. It was expanded to 18 holes in 1999 and offers a pleasing parkland course over the Pennsylvania hills with fast greens.
Brian Morrissey
14. Jul, 2009
I played the course last year and loved it. Did you know, Musselburgh has a nickname? It is called the “honest toun”…
It was a “driech” day when I played (driech is an old Scots word for a day when thick grey clouds are hanging heavily in the sky, and although it may be wet or even drizzly it is not actually raining.
There are a lot of Scots words that don’t translate well into English) and that was in August when the Edinburgh Festival was on!
Conditions could not have spoiled my fun; only regret is I did not use the hickories! But when I go back…
I joined Wetherby golf club in Yorkshire this year. It was founded in 1910 on the former site of Wetherby racecourse, now moved to the north of the town. What’s left of the old railway line (which was closed in the 1960s) runs through the course. A more picturesque place I have yet to see – centenary next year!
Before this I was a member at Flaxby (between York and Harrogate) – great course, but only opened recently and the facilities reflect this. When they get round to building the proposed Hotel and Country club… but then again maybe not…
John A Silkstone
14. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy and thank you for the entertaining video.
I’m a member of the Misterton Golf Club (South Yorkshire). The course opened in 2000. It’s a nine hole – eighteen tees course and is the most unforgiving course I’ve ever played on, and I’ve played golf all over the world.
John A Silkstone
MICK B
14. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy I play at Royal Guernsey Golf Club ever been to Channel Islands??
John Stevenson
14. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy
Fascinating story about Musselburgh.
I play at Bathgate Golf Club – the only club in the world to have produced two Ryder Cup Captains!
Regards
John
Bob Reid
14. Jul, 2009
Hi my home club is Lombard Glen in beautiful Rideau Lakes Ontario Canada. We enjoy good golf and the world heritage Rideau Canal. We are also only a 10 min drive to the Links of Tay Golf Course in Perth Ontario. It is to oldest, continuously operating golf course in North America.
Bob Reid
Susan
14. Jul, 2009
I play at Oporto Golf Club in Portugal which has been in existence since 1890 and claims the oldest continuous golf competition in the world – the Skeffington Cup. It’s a links course which brings the wind into play. Have a look at the website: oportogolfclub.com
Steve Batty
14. Jul, 2009
Hi I play at Moortown Golf club , home of the 1929 Ryder Cup, which Britian as it was then not Europe, won for the first time. We celebrated our centenary just last week as my poor liver will testify to. We had a fabulous week with many guests- old ryder cup players etc attendinfg various dinners comps etc.
We had David Edwards up for a session of trick golf as seen here – he was fantastic.
Regards Steve Batty
warner skomars
14. Jul, 2009
Andy, enlightening and enjoyable, thank you! I currently play at Angel Park in Las Vegas, USA, circa 1990. Your next project – should you choose to accept it – visit the oldest course in each country. Thank you again.
Ray Parfitt
14. Jul, 2009
I play at Enniskillen Golf Club in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. It was founded in 1896 and started life as a 9 hole golf course. About twenty years ago another nine holes were added. It is a beautiful parkland course with a par of 71 for men. You will receive a warm welcome if you visit us and I guarantee you a very enjoyable round of golf.
Ray
Ed Korhonen
14. Jul, 2009
I found the video on Royal Musselburgh fascinating. I especially enjoyed finding out the way the cup size was determined for what is now the whole golfing world- by the drainpipe!
Too bad it wasn’t a 6 inch pipe!
I belong to the Mississaugua Golf and Country Club just adjacent to Toronto. We celebrated our 100th anniversary 2 years ago, and have hosted 6 Canadian Opens over the years.
Ray
14. Jul, 2009
Sorry Andy, but the quality of this video is very poor. You interviewed Robin McGregor but the background noise was too overwhelming. Turn the volume up and I’m hit with your backing tune which drowned me out. So I’m sitting there with the volume going up and down like a pair of whore’s draws. It’s all too disjointed to make an enjoyable viewing.
Andy’s Reply:
I’m very sorry Ray. I had no control over the background noise, though in future I will make a mental note to try and hold interviews in quiter places. I was still able to clearly hear what Robin was saying, but do appreciate it can vary on different computers and speakers.
Ultimately I am very pleased you took the time to view the episode and I appreciate all comments so as I can produce better shows in the future.
Kind Regards
Andy
David Walsh
14. Jul, 2009
I play at Beau Desert in the middle of Cannock Chase in the Midlands. It is a Herbert Fowler design from 1911, high up with bags of long rough and heather just off the fairways. Lots of trees and dips and rises and always tough particularly now in the summer. Greens are super and 18th was supposedly 2nd biggest in Europe. Hosted Open Qualifying 17 times but now too short at 6,300 yds.
Love it but it kills me sometimes.
David
Val l Saunders
14. Jul, 2009
I play at Humewood Golf Club, the only genuine links golf course in South Africa. It was founded in 1929 and when the wind blows as it does very often in the city of Port Elizabeth (affectionately known as the windy city) it presents a challenge to all levels of golfers. I have only had one game in the UK and that was at St Andrews Old Course in 1964 when it cost me 5 shillings to play! What a course and what an experience!
Gareth Thomas
14. Jul, 2009
Hello Andy , I play most of my golf at Southwood Golf Club .We had our 30th anniversary last year . Great film clip , as i love learning about the history and traditions of our wonderful sport , Cheers
Gareth
Richard Leslie
14. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy, thoroughly enjoyed watching the video of Musselburgh Old Course of which I have been a member for some 15 years .I am so proud that it has now (at last) been recognised as the world’s oldest surviving playing golf course. Hope you enjoyed your visit and you will be welcomed with open arms upon your next one.
yours in sport
Rich Leslie
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Rich,
Thanks for your kind comments.
I had a super day and I was made most welcome by Robin and Eddie.
Kind Regards
Andy
Many thanks for your
Steven Phillip
14. Jul, 2009
Interesting article on Royal Musselburgh IMO
I play at Forfar Golf club in Angus , course was designed by James Braid & has been in existence since 1871.
It is more heathland than park , with undulating fairways this is from the period of time when the land was used as flax feilds ( bit like playing on giant corrugated sheeting ).
Regards Steven
Steve Armstrong
14. Jul, 2009
Hi Andy, i play at Farnham Sands down in Surrey, the club was founded in 1896 and is a challenging parkland course. Let me know if your ever down this far south and perhaps we can have a game.
Best Wishes
Steve
Didier
14. Jul, 2009
My wife and I used to play golf to Dolce Chantilly golf course just in front of the “old golf Chantilly” where the open de france qualification are taking place.Tiger Woods and Gercio Garcia played overthere long time ago.
All the best and enjoy your game.
Didier
Gary Rothlein
14. Jul, 2009
I wish I could hit the links more than I do, but right now I play at Val Vista Golf Course in Valencia, Ca.
Ross
14. Jul, 2009
My wife and I had the very happy experience of visiting Musselburgh Old Course last September. Robin being passionate about his course spent a plenty of time with us informing us of the history. We returned the next day and played the course, a wonderful historic experience. Thank you Robin for maintaining the history and allowing others to enjoy it.
My home course is the The Sands, Torquay Aust which has just turned 5 years old.
Quite a contrast!!