Today was meant to be an “off” day. We’ve been trudging pretty hard since arriving, so we thought we’d just drive around a bit then visit a course from 2018 that left us with horrible scores, but great stories— a little-known course called West Kilbride.
To start the day, we headed south on the west coast of Scotland to Prestwick Golf Club. Every course in Scotland has “bragging rights.” They all come with a slogan— “most copied holes”, “most ocean views”, “most revetted bunkers”, or whatever it is (hilarious). This one is truly true—the home of the first Open. In fact, the British Open was held here until 1925 and then never again, because there isn’t enough room for galleries and the crowd was actually pushing into the players! It’s a great course with famous holes— the Himalayas and the Sahara for hills and sand! We played here in 2018, but today was just a visit to take a picture of their Claret Jug (I have two so far this trip) and to get John a new golf towel! Little did I know, however, that they do not have a women’s club. Humph! Then off to town to search the “charity” shops for a warmer jacket for me. As they say here, “It’s bloody cold.”
That easily done, we were off again up the coast to another beautiful course that we’re not playing, Turnberry. This is truly a marvel and no matter your politics. Trump restored this course to its original glory, for which everyone is grateful. He also presented the club with a gorgeous trophy and lots of touches that are so unique. I took a picture of their Claret Jug (that makes three). Today, the club was quiet—no big buses. It was members day. We took a good look around, did not buy a Trump hat (just $45) and were back on the road.
Our destination for the day was on the coast, a proper links course that has delightful holes, lots of interest, and a gentle, continuous breeze that is always 10+knots, West Kilbride. We went right to the shop to check in before having a late lunch. In five minutes, I was exchanging phone numbers with the starter! I’m friendly, but this was highly unusual. She is married to an American, and they’re coming to the US next month, to Pasadena!! Of course, I had to offer tickets to the Huntington Gardens. I’d also offer a round of golf, but they’ve got a toddler and are coming for a wedding, so we’ll keep it simple. Anyway, friends for life, just like that.
In the parking lot, we were donning all our winter gear when a fellow in shorts (!) walked by. I had to remark that we had different views of the weather. He noticed my accent and asked when we were starting. Then, he invited us to start with him. That meant golf with a member— excellent— friendly and knows the course! We said yes to Jack!
Amazing how much we both remembered of the course from so long ago. Amazing how much a member knows that we don’t. John and I both had some lovely holes. Figuring out the wind (not a gentle breeze at all) was part of the fun. This course goes out for six, back in for two, shares a green with 17, then back out and around for ten and eleven, then back in. Even though I continue to be a shorter hitter, I did very well and John had a great time talking to Jack about this and that. About halfway around, I pulled out my “big” gift— a poker chip from SGCC and gave it to him. We also invited him to stay around afterwards for a drink, on us. On 17, he called his wife, Glynnid (Whannel) and the four of us had dinner and drinks together. His wife, (don’t laugh) runs a big charity shop here and had lots of stories to tell. We got on great—another friend for life.
What a delightfully wonderful day!!
