Machrihanish
requires an effort of not inconsiderable will to get to,
but anyone with any feeling for the history of the game,
or desire to seek out one of the best links in the World
of Golf, has to make this journey. 140
miles from Glasgow by road, or 30 minutes by air, Machrihanish
is a course not to be missed.
Old
Tom Morris described the ground on which this course lies,
as being specifically designed by the almighty for playing
golf. Established in 1876, golf has been played here since
1871. Little has changed to disturb the natural scenic beauty
and inspiring challenge created by Old Tom. Tom required
4 days to layout this magnificent course, 2 days longer
than normal for a typical links course of the day. It could
be that Old Tom was no stranger to a glass of Malt Whiskey
in his time, and the proliferation of Distilleries around
this area may have accounted for his protracted stay.
The tee shot on the opening hole requires to be struck across
as much of the Atlantic Ocean as one has courage to take
on, it is one of Scottish golf's great experiences. This
first hole was recently voted 'Finest in the World' by a
well known Golfing Magazine.
There are blind shots to be played, fairway lies to negotiate
that are seldom level, and then there is the turf, pure,
crisp seaside links that invite the nipped iron shot and
leave behind the slightest sliver of a divet. First time
visitors will be struck by the natural beauty of the place
and the friendly attitude of the members who welcome golfers
from across the globe. If there is a golfing heaven somewhere,
it is a sure bet that Machrihanish will have to be passed
on the way to get there.