80+ Shots of ‘Scotch’

and no sign of a hangover.

First of all let me preface this article by saying, yes, I have been fortunate enough to play golf in its homeland. Furthermore, I was lucky enough to tread on a few of Scotland’s national treasures (of which they have many) and, yes, I have stood on the Swilcan Bridge.

So when a recent invite dropped in ye olde inbox it really peaked my interest. Why? Well because it was to play a course which was new to me and moreover because it was a links inspired lay-out designed by a third generation English designer, Dr Martin Hawtree, who is the man who was just consulted on the changes to Carnoustie and as well as many other celebrated Scottish links courses.

Sounds interestingly authentic doesn’t it?

At first glance, Tarandowah (the etymology is Native Indian), certainly looks the part. It is even set amongst remarkably similar rural farmland which only adds to the allure of the old world style countryside which made me beg the question, where were all the sheep? Ok, there were no sheep, and it’s not on the water either, then again, none of the area’s links inspired courses are and we certainly have some pretty good ones – Osprey comes to mind.

On approach to the first tee it was easily apparent that the wind was going to be a factor, hitting fairways was going to be at a premium, and being this my first time ‘round I might need a little help with where to aim — all very reminiscent of overseas.

The similarities did not stop there. Tarandowah has a very naturalistic feel. This is not Augusta, nor should it be. The fescue is gnarly, but playable should you acquire an opportune lie and if you don’t be prepared to hack it out sideways and or take the recommended path of least resistance. The bunkers are penal and wonderfully unmanicured. With smart play, they can be avoided. Good course management is a trademark of successful links golf and you will require more than a little here.

The first few holes are not too difficult and maybe even a tad mundane but this makes the start of the round somewhat pleasant. Don’t get lulled to sleep though (I was warned) as the course has real teeth which, to my short pencils chagrin, tend to get sharper along the way.

Just like overseas (you’d think by now I’d have already, in some vague way, secured the capacity to learn) it won’t take long for one to realize that you must take what the course gives you and not try to dictate anything to her. Keep the ball down, trajectory control is crucial, as is determining roll distance and hitting the ball to spots. Just like on the hallowed greens at Turnberry the ball will, and did, land bounce and roll (uphill at times) even when hit with a soft ball and lob wedge. My advice, forget the high soft style shot. It is tough from the fairway and even tougher around the greens. De-loft, over-club, punch it in and trust your athleticism, not your yardage. Point of fact, when I played in Scotland I gave up on yardages (other than a base reference) and scored better. The same held true here.

Ok, now we know it’s linksy, did I also allude to the fact that it plays tough. Here’s a quaint little quote from the architect – Dr Martin Hawtree,

“Fairness in golf is one of our hang ups at the moment … I’ve never bought into that obsession with fairness, an obsession with justice. Those were never meant to be a part of golf.”

It is a par 70 and can play over 7000 yards from the tips. At those markers you can digest a 230 yard par 3 and 460 yard par 4 that plays entirely uphill and into the breeze. Ouch.

The greens are undulated and most pins will be difficult to get to should you short side any approach shots. The mounding around the greens lends itself to chip shots which run away from the player – leave it short, your short – hit it a little heavy and your, well, long. The speed of the greens were fair considering the movement and the roll very true.

As for the gory scorecard details I’ll stop here as I think it is always best for someone to experience a new golf course carte blanche. After all it is their story (your story) which will make the best post round tale. Too much knowledge is not always beneficial and the movie trailer will ne’er compare to the film itself.

I will say that they informed me there is still some work in progress. But for my money, Tarandowah is already all it needs to be. Sure there is a temporary clubhouse (larger than many permanent structures in Scotland), the parking lot’s not yet paved, the soon to be ‘burn’ is currently a creek, and a few other details, but who cares. This is a great links golf course and the focus is exactly where it should be — on the game.

For those who have been to Scotland, there’s a little déjà vu impatiently awaiting and for anyone else who has not been but would like to experience a little bit of what it’s actually like let me say, “what are you waiting for”? I know that I’ll be back for another wry smile, roll of the eyes, or headshake or two. It’s fun, it’s pure and plus I need a chance at redemption.

And here’s to hoping, they have not changed a thing. Cheers.

So for all of you purists out there you might just want to check this place out >> www.puregolf.net

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May Also be of Interest:

• Places to Play – Eagle’s Nest
• Places to Play – Dragon’s Fire
• and for something a little different …
• Mark it Down
• Chasing Ashley