Adrian
I have grown up with TOC, of walking through the rear garden at 7 Pilmour Links through our private alleyway with the black door beside Old Tom’s shop straight onto the road facing the 18th Green. I know the four main real St Andrews courses, yet my love is the out of the way courses that are fun, quiet and enjoyable to play. No, not testing but a nice challenge, which generally suits my mood. I see in Askernish one of those real old world courses that offers a Links golfer so much, especially on a windy day.
Relaxing after a game in a local pub, learning where one went wrong, satisfied when all went right. Many here talk of quirky courses, yet I do not see or relate to anything quirky. Many can’t play the game without the need for some sort of distant aid. Some like to rush around on a cart and cram in 18 holes at the end of a day at work, I like to slow it down, walk and play 9 holes properly, letting the stress evaporate and the ozone air fill my lungs as I play.
I am a Man of the Links first and foremost, all other courses are just Second Best IMHO, no matter who designed them. That’s my kind of golf, some may say stark and devoid of trees, but that my friend is a real golf course, its where the game was born, it where I want my game to be., it’s the heart and soul of the game. The modern game is soft, modern golfers seem to want well-manicured, perfect courses with all mod cons. There is no time for physical exertions, just jump on the cart let it take the strain, don’t think, get out the GPS/Rangefinder or seek distance markers, let them take away the stress of thinking for yourself. Well some of us and it may surprise you that it’s more than just a handful want and enjoy courses like Askernish. We are happy to promote them, as they are IOHO the real thing, one of the reasons we took up golf in the first place. So bland golf courses, just in case all you modern golfers have forgotten is where it started. There is more of a test and challenge to be found on a Links course than on most other courses.
Many questions have been answered on this thread alone regards Askernish. It’s a links course built on the site of Old Tom Morris Cathcart course, short of a modern detailed map, it is as accurate as it can be. There are some of us searching the records looking for a course map or a report on the course to reaffirm its as close as it can be, noting that erosion has had a hand in helping to shape one or two of the old holes. This course just goes to show what can be done with a very small budge, as I keep reminding the GCA, they should IMHO take note, visit and talk to Ralph and his team.
Members of Askernish Golf Club do read this site on a very regular basic. They read comments from those who don’t even know where South Uist is let alone ever had an opportunity to play a links course. They will welcome you with open arm and help you enjoy your stay and the experience. Once you have played the course then tell them of your opinion.
That is why I am happy to support this club and its Members.
Melvyn