My Favourite Course

Golf Magazines at this time of the year tend to publish their top course rankings/ golf holidays etc as the Professional Tours largely take a break over the winter months. This year is no different and it occurred to me to reflect on three of themost memorable courses that I have had the pleasure in playing. These may not be the best courses I have played. For example, Carnoustie is a brilliant course but it’s setting and atmosphere is poor in comparison with many others.

St Andrews (Old)- This may be a predictable choice, but it should be at the top of most people’s list. It is nearly twenty years since I played it on a cold February morning, but I can still remember the “buzz” I had teeing off on the first or having my tee shot on the last framed by the R&A Clubhouse. An unforgettable experience made more special by the town’s golfing ambience.

Waterville- There is quite a bit of mileage between my first two choices but hardly any difference in the quality of the experience. For many people, even those that live in Ireland, the journey to Waterville is daunting but is shouldn’t be. You are greeted with a spectacular piece of land with a golf course to match. Walking off the par five 18th I can remember saying to my playing partners “this is the finest course I’ve played in Ireland”. My opinion still hasn’t changed.

Co. Donegal (Murvagh)- My favourite course in Donegal and one that is always overlooked/ underrated by many golfing journalists. This is a stern test of links golf with many classic holes including the iconic par three 5th and par five 8th. Well worth a visit and remarkable value for money when you consider that you can be a full member of the club for just 650 euros.