Jeff, Thanks for that. And now that I have met some of them, you are correct. There are a lot of people working hard to make Cabot Links top notch.
First off, those who are concerned over how long it might take them to get to Cape Breton Island, might as well take their chill pill right now. The Island is amazing. Unplugged is an understatement. Relaxed, laid back, are all adjectives I would use to describe the feeling one needs to have to get the vibe. It does not take longer than it is worth.
The golf course is going to be sublime. Having all 18 holes with water views is a rarity and the journey one will take while golfing this seaside course is as breathtaking as it is exciting golf. Freedom, width, undulating waves of all fescue, dunesland, should get the heart a putter'in for all who value links golf as the purest form of gca. And maybe even for those who haven't figured that out yet?
The course begins with a nice handshake mid-length par 4, with a drive over a small hillock. Unfolding before you is an introduction to what you are about experience throughout your round. Well placed bunkering, some green side, some center-lines, some short of the green space, for all manner of creative, yet exacting, shot making. The second hole will rival one of the best par 5's created. Reminiscent of Neville's 6th at Pebble, the undulations from a distance are impressive, up close, intimidating. This one two combination, will only enhance the golfer's anticipation going forward.
The course generally loops around, although it isn't as straight forward as that description conjures. One of the coolest points of the journey is at the farthest point from the Ocean, when the 8th and 9th holes take you out near the Harbour, with a reverse Redan-like par 3 8th, and a major cape hole 9th.
Most of this course is in grow in, with the few remaining holes to be grassed, roughed in. These last holes have been saved for last because their ground was needed as staging areas or access routes to build the remainder.
With hurricane Igor (or is it EEEgor?) off the coast of Newfoundland, I was treated to winds in excess of 50 mph and gusts of who knows? But enough to push this fat man around. As an example, the downhill 110 yard 14th, heading straight out to the ocean (pictured above) looked like it was either a full driver, or a putter played down along the hill. Such elasticity is only dreamt of, once one reaches true geek status. Which after this trip, I think I easily qualify.
After my walk about, I made the trek over to Highlands Links. The drive was surreal, making Big Sur look little.
One of the first invitations I saw in this treehouse, was when Ran invited any and all on his trek to Cape Breton Island, over 10 years ago. Since then I've been intrigued to get there and I was not disappointed.
Highlands was a treat, since almost all of Stanley Thompsons (sp?) work is intact. After visiting there, and having never met Ian Andrew, I can securely say, I love him. His love for Highlands and his help in recapturing the masterpiece that lies there should be heralded to all the halls of those who may someday care. While there's lots left to do, once the G'ment commits it's dollars, the golfer won't need to see beneath the surface at the bones, It's greatness will be as obvious as the balls on a tall dog.