The
course was originally laid out in 1891 by Willie Campbell
who believed it was "the best ground for a golf course
that I have ever had the pleasure of viewing." Apart
from a few changes made in the 1970s, the course remains
very much the same as when Willie Campbell first constructed
it all those years ago. Thus it is a traditional links course
and, when playing, one gets the feeling of going back in
time to the days of Harry Vardon and John Taylor.
Indeed,
the Machrie's main claim to fame is its own Open Championship
of 1901 which included the 'Great Triumvirate' of Harry
Vardon, John Henry Taylor and James Braid. It had the highest
prize of any Open competition at that time of £100!
Whilst prize money has changed since then, the course has
remained virtually the same with the sand dunes providing
natural hazards that will challenge most golfers. A feature
of such a classic links course is the blind holes and there
are a number of blind shots at Machrie. Whilst these may
present a challenge on the first round, it does get easier
but, if you feel you may need some help initially, then
why not arrange for a caddie?
Although the weather can sometimes be a handicap, there
are times when it is an advantage. Because Islay lies in
the Gulf Stream, the climate is such that we do not suffer
the same levels of snow and frost that is problematic for
other courses and consequently, play is possible virtually
all year round. Indeed, the winter turf is unique to The
Machrie and golf is even made easier.
There are many reasons why you should play at Machrie, not
least because of the stunning views over the bay, the fact
that you can walk out of the hotel onto the course, and
for its remarkable history. It is a course probably like
no other you have ever played and one which you will fall
in love with - most golfers do. If you have a love of the
game, enjoy beautiful scenery, and a testing game of golf,
then you have to play The Machrie.
