Western
Gailes is rather less well renowned than some of Scotland's
great links courses but there should be no doubt that it
is still one of the very finest.
It
was founded in 1897 as it had the perfect setting with easy
access by rail from the city. An annual lease was secured
from the Duke of Portland, who owned the land, for the princely
sum of £65.00 offset by £15.00 negotiated for
the grazing rights. The committee of the new club were in
no doubt that the success of the club depended on attracting
golfers who were already members of other clubs, but who
understood the advantages of playing links golf. When Western
Gailes was celebrating its 50th anniversary an appreciation
of the club was written by Sam McKinlay, that eloquent and
perceptive commentator on the game. He opened his remarks
in the following way: "Western Gailes occupies a place
in the affections of Scottish Golfers that cannot be explained
solely on the grounds of its undoubted quality, its superb
situation, or the creature comforts which its furnishes.
Indeed, its claim to renown cannot be limited to Scotland.
In other parts of these islands, and in the United States,
my mention of Gailes has brought a far-off look into the
eyes of the listener, who has invariably remarked - 'Ah,
Western Gailes!' For Gailes represents to the true golfer,
to the connoisseur of the game, something approaching the
ideal in golf. Western was bound to attract both top amateur
and profesional events since Open champion Harry Vardon
won the first major contest here with a 68 in 1903 the course
has played host to the Curtis Cup, P.G.A. Championship,
Seniors, Scottish and Boys Championships and the Ladies'
Home Internationals, and many times been an Open Championship
qualifying course.
The
view form the clubhouse gives an instant picture of the
delights Gailes has in store. The beautiful, light-coloured,
fine bladed links turf reaches out in all directions, between
intruding fingers of heather and protruding sand dunes.
The hills of Arran and the sharp outline of Alisa Craig
stand out from the shimmering sea. The course puts no more
emphasis on length than it does on the delicate approach
shot or the-well struck medium or long iron, but all these
skills are examined during a round at Western Gailes. Perhaps
that is why, combined with its beautiful setting and warm
welcome, it has captivated so many golfers for so long and
will always continue to do so.
