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The Old Course is unique, a product of 200 years of natural evolution and just the occasional tweak of design. With its double greens, crossovers, blind shots, firm and fast fairways and notoriously perilous bunkering, it’s an inimitable masterpiece.
The 1st tee shot should be straightforward,but even the most experienced professional will feel jangling nerves as they aim at the widest fairway in golf. As the holes forge out from the 2nd towards the Eden Estuary, there are birdie chances at the par-5 5th and the short par-4 7th. Then, the famous loop delivers more opportunities: the, sometimes, driveable 9th and relatively straightforward 10th.
It’s from the short 11th that the Old Lady really begins to show her mettle. With Strath and Hill bunkers protecting a viciously sloping green, this is a par-3 that has ruined many scorecards over the years.The 12th is a devilish little par-4 and the stretch from the 13th to the 16th must be negotiated with a clear and patient strategy.
Then to the grandstand finish: The 17th, “Road,” is the most recognisable holeontheOpenrotaandthelast“TomMorris,”headingbacktowardsThe Auld Grey Toon, can be driveable with a favourable wind. How valuable might a closing eagle be come Sunday afternoon of Open week?
Thank you to Fergus Bisset for kindly providing the text and kevinmurraygolfphotography.com for the photography.