Golf Club Atlas
GolfClubAtlas.com => Golf Course Architecture Discussion Group => Topic started by: John Mayhugh on September 26, 2010, 10:20:46 PM
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As soon as I learned that Buda 2010 would be in Wales, I decided that this would be the perfect opportunity to see a couple of courses that I would never have heard of without Golf Club Atlas. Jason Topp was easily convinced to join me.
After waiting 1:30+ in the immigration line at Heathrow (almost enough time to watch all of Hot Tub Time Machine on my phone), I was ready to hit the road. Fortunately Jason already had the car rental sorted out, and we were off to Kington.
Kington was a pretty significant detour from Wales, but from the first time I saw Sean Arble’s post on the course, I knew that I had to see it sooner rather than later.
http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,30926.0/
After more than three hours of driving, we located the town of Kington and headed up the hill to the course, reportedly the highest point in England. Fortunately, the road up the hill wasn’t too busy.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000004.jpg)
Jason loosened up at the range.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000005.jpg)
The awesome views rewarded us immediately.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000019.jpg)
Views of the course were just as good.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000031.jpg)
A not-too-busy road thru the course.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000035.jpg)
Great tee signs.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000039.jpg)
We had to get this group to vacate the tee.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000052.jpg)
Lots of these shelters on the course. I would say the weather could quickly get rough on top of the hill.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000072.jpg)
If you want to use the shelter, you have to be able to open the gate. Sorry sheep.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000059.jpg)
This is a bench that practically demands you stop for a few minutes.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000062.jpg)
The wild mounds that help make Kington so memorable.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000084.jpg)
One of the coolest 18th holes I’ve played.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000112.jpg)
I would have loved to stick around for another trip around the course, but not enough time left in the day. After a beer and a toasty, we hit the road. Not even enough time for cleaning up.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000115.jpg)
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Glad to see you figured out what to do with all those pictures. I am looking forward to this. Hopefully I can use it to explain to people what the heck I did for the week. My efforts at explanation thus far have been met with vacant and confused looks.
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As soon as I learned that Buda 2010 would be in Wales, I decided that this would be the perfect opportunity to see a couple of courses that I would never have heard of without Golf Club Atlas. Jason Topp was easily convinced to join me.
After waiting 1:30+ in the immigration line at Heathrow (almost enough time to watch all of Hot Tub Time Machine on my phone), I was ready to hit the road. Fortunately Jason already had the car rental sorted out, and we were off to Kington.
Kington was a pretty significant detour from Wales, but from the first time I saw Sean Arble’s post on the course, I knew that I had to see it sooner rather than later.
http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,30926.0/
After more than three hours of driving, we located the town of Kington and headed up the hill to the course, reportedly the highest point in England. Fortunately, the road up the hill wasn’t too busy.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000004.jpg)
Jason loosened up at the range.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000005.jpg)
The awesome views rewarded us immediately.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000019.jpg)
Views of the course were just as good.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000031.jpg)
A not-too-busy road thru the course.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000035.jpg)
Great tee signs.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000039.jpg)
We had to get this group to vacate the tee.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000052.jpg)
Lots of these shelters on the course. I would say the weather could quickly get rough on top of the hill.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000072.jpg)
If you want to use the shelter, you have to be able to open the gate. Sorry sheep.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000059.jpg)
This is a bench that practically demands you stop for a few minutes.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000062.jpg)
The wild mounds that help make Kington so memorable.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000084.jpg)
One of the coolest 18th holes I’ve played.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000112.jpg)
I would have loved to stick around for another trip around the course, but not enough time left in the day. After a beer and a toasty, we hit the road. Not even enough time for cleaning up.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/kington/P1000115.jpg)
Tucky
You playd what quite possibly may be my favourite "visiting" golf course in all the world. Kington ticks so many boxes which are important to me that its impossible not to love. I hope you had a good time as its always a bit worrying recommending off the beaten track courses to folks one doesn't know well if at all. I figure that after a certain amount of golf travel (whatever that is) most golfers will know the time is right to step outside the box and see the best of the "other side of golf" (meaning off the ranking tables). Most things in life are down to timing. One is either ready to fall hard for Kington or the timing isn't right. Lets hope you caught Kington at the right time and are beguiled enough to return. I promise if you give Kington time you will be rewarded ten fold for your efforts.
Anyway, we know a bit about the experience of Kington, which is undoubtably part of its charm, but what did you think of the course? Jason?
Ciao
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Fellow Competitors
I have posted an account on the wrap up thread
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Sean - yellow card for copying John's entire thread and photos. Let's keep posts shorter!
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John,
Great stuff!!! I love your write-ups and pics of the unusual and quirky things you see on your trips. Most of us just walk by without taking notice. Please keep it up!
I hope there will be more from this trip!
Mike
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You played what quite possibly may be my favourite "visiting" golf course in all the world. Kington ticks so many boxes which are important to me that its impossible not to love. I hope you had a good time as its always a bit worrying recommending off the beaten track courses to folks one doesn't know well if at all. I figure that after a certain amount of golf travel (whatever that is) most golfers will know the time is right to step outside the box and see the best of the "other side of golf" (meaning off the ranking tables). Most things in life are down to timing. One is either ready to fall hard for Kington or the timing isn't right. Lets hope you caught Kington at the right time and are beguiled enough to return. I promise if you give Kington time you will be rewarded ten fold for your efforts.
Anyway, we know a bit about the experience of Kington, which is undoubtably part of its charm, but what did you think of the course? Jason?
At one point mid-round, I told Jason that I didn't know when or how, but I was sure that I would play Kington again.
I understand your concern about recommending off the beaten track courses and had a similar experience when talking with my car-mate about where to play. Fortunately, Jason was as keen on seeing Kington & Painswick as I was, and we were richly rewarded for our efforts.
Kington is a very good golf course. In addition to stirring the soul, it challenges the shot making. The mounding, the way the greens fall away on the sides, the slope of the greens (especially evident on 11 & 14) all combine to make the approach position on this "wide open" course very important. The course is short enough that one should be able to score well on it, but all of the bumps and design features (and wind) put pressure on your game. I loved it.
As you will see from subsequent posts, we probably over-scheduled a bit, playing eight courses in seven days. I really would have loved another trip around Kington as well as the opportunity to look around the town and surrounding area. I'm comforted somewhat by knowing I'll do that next time I'm there.
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Glad to see you figured out what to do with all those pictures. I am looking forward to this. Hopefully I can use it to explain to people what the heck I did for the week. My efforts at explanation thus far have been met with vacant and confused looks.
I'm trying to limit my posting of sheep photos, lest people get the wrong idea.
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I think Kington may be the highest golf course in England, but obviously it's not the highest point - you'd have a job putting golf on the hill that is!
http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html?view=photos&pk=1063#1 (http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html?view=photos&pk=1063#1)
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I think Kington may be the highest golf course in England, but obviously it's not the highest point - you'd have a job putting golf on the hill that is!
http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html?view=photos&pk=1063#1 (http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html?view=photos&pk=1063#1)
Thanks for the correction. That is what I should have typed.
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John, will we see some thoughts on Painswick? :o ;D
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John, will we see some thoughts on Painswick? :o ;D
Up next. Tonight or tomorrow.
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John:
Fantastic post...thanks for sharing. There's something about traveling way out of your way on a journey to "find" a course as it really make you appriciate it even more. Talk about a unique site...what views!
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Anyway, we know a bit about the experience of Kington, which is undoubtably part of its charm, but what did you think of the course? Jason?
Ciao
I liked it. I thought it had a good mix of long and short holes. It was wide off the tee but challenging enough in a cross-wind. I thought the greenside mounding made for unique and interesting hazards. I liked the routing which essentially takes you around a high point and back. Adventure and views are always ahead and in nearly 360 degrees of direction. The greens were in excellent condition.
I was a bit less enamored with the lumpy ground purely from a lie standpoint. For those who have not played the course the lumps are similar to those you find on a low lying marshy golf course - except they are relatively firm. The ball is constantly in awkward positions, and interere with one's ability to make a normal swing with longer clubs. It is entirely possible to have a downhill lie with a lump behind your ball on an uphill shot for example. I did not mind for the most part, but hitting a fairway wood is very difficult and in the wind we had many fairway woods.
Even the goofy lies make Kington a unique and memorable challenge I hope I experience again someday.
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I haven't been to Kington yet, but the views are similarly mind-boggling at Llanymynech, Ian Woosnam's boyhood home course. There's some fun golf along Offa's Dyke.
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Thanks John, so Kington or Clyne? I've not played Kington but I enjoyed Clyne a lot more than The Chef did.
Also the man who won the money on Saturday AM and PM (but didn't stick around to collect), said he thought Clyne was a better course.
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Tony,
I can't speak for John but in my book using the flawed 10 play test Kington beats Clyne 9-1.
Mark
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You played what quite possibly may be my favourite "visiting" golf course in all the world. Kington ticks so many boxes which are important to me that its impossible not to love. I hope you had a good time as its always a bit worrying recommending off the beaten track courses to folks one doesn't know well if at all. I figure that after a certain amount of golf travel (whatever that is) most golfers will know the time is right to step outside the box and see the best of the "other side of golf" (meaning off the ranking tables). Most things in life are down to timing. One is either ready to fall hard for Kington or the timing isn't right. Lets hope you caught Kington at the right time and are beguiled enough to return. I promise if you give Kington time you will be rewarded ten fold for your efforts.
Anyway, we know a bit about the experience of Kington, which is undoubtably part of its charm, but what did you think of the course? Jason?
At one point mid-round, I told Jason that I didn't know when or how, but I was sure that I would play Kington again.
I understand your concern about recommending off the beaten track courses and had a similar experience when talking with my car-mate about where to play. Fortunately, Jason was as keen on seeing Kington & Painswick as I was, and we were richly rewarded for our efforts.
Kington is a very good golf course. In addition to stirring the soul, it challenges the shot making. The mounding, the way the greens fall away on the sides, the slope of the greens (especially evident on 11 & 14) all combine to make the approach position on this "wide open" course very important. The course is short enough that one should be able to score well on it, but all of the bumps and design features (and wind) put pressure on your game. I loved it.
As you will see from subsequent posts, we probably over-scheduled a bit, playing eight courses in seven days. I really would have loved another trip around Kington as well as the opportunity to look around the town and surrounding area. I'm comforted somewhat by knowing I'll do that next time I'm there.
Well Tucky, it sounds like 2 of 4 Pests like Kington a load (you and The Canary), one likes it (Jason) and one tolerated it (The African Animal). 2.5 out of 4 ain't bad going for a 5900 yard course on hill, with no bunkers, no fairway shaping and about as little maintenance as one is likely to see anywhere.
The most severe green is #11; it always surprises me how much it runs front to back.
I would like to know how in the heck Hutchison came up wiith such a unique way to deal with the slopes of Bradnor Hill - especially when we see his elegant work elsewhere.
Jason
The cuppy lies are a killer with a wood in hand, but I like them. Why? Because they are Kington and like most bunkers, one only finds himself in this situation a few times a game.
Ciao
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I had dinner this evening (at an Irish Pub, no less) with the aforementioned Mr. Mayhugh...fresh from his trip overseas and nursing a cold he picked up on the flight abck home. But he was well enough to share a bit abiout the BUDA, the folks who attended and all the great places he got to play. I am certainly jealous with envy, and hope to have the chance to make the trip myself one of these years.
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After more than three hours of driving,
John
Three hours from where - Cardiff ?
Sounds like a quirky little club - look forward to your pics of Painswick
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I had dinner this evening (at an Irish Pub, no less) with the aforementioned Mr. Mayhugh...fresh from his trip overseas and nursing a cold he picked up on the flight back home. But he was well enough to share a bit about the BUDA, the folks who attended and all the great places he got to play. I am certainly jealous with envy, and hope to have the chance to make the trip myself one of these years.
Verrrryyy interesting......I too contracted a killer chest cold on the way home. An hour idling on the tarmac at Gatwick, 9 hours in the air., My chest cold turned into killer bronchitis. Has anyone had any luck with "Airborne?"
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Thanks John, so Kington or Clyne? I've not played Kington but I enjoyed Clyne a lot more than The Chef did.
Also the man who won the money on Saturday AM and PM (but didn't stick around to collect), said he thought Clyne was a better course.
Kington by a substantial margin. I really enjoyed Clyne, but I think the collection of holes at Kington is better and there's also more magic in the air.
Evan,
Nice to catch up with you. Make the Buda trip sometime - you'll be glad you did. And very likely you will see McBride, Whitaker, & Mayhugh there.
Kevin,
Ok, more like four hours.
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We made a quick drive down to the ancient town of Painswick. It was just about dark when we arrived, and I didn’t manage to get any photos of the town as our efforts were focused on finding our B&B. Painswick is not as easy a driving town as this two way street suggests.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000120.jpg)
The Tibbiwell Lodge was a great place to stay. Wonderful view of the Cotswald countryside outside the bedroom window.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000119.jpg)
My breakfast companion. Where did that last piece of sausage go?
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000118.jpg)
The road to Painswick Golf Club is one of those turns that you had better be watching for.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000121.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000122.jpg)
There is no way a photo can do justice to the huge climb up the hill on the first hole.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000124.jpg)
The old quarry pit short of the green gives a hint of the kind of hazards and quirk to expect.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000125.jpg)
Note all of the places where a hole crosses another one or a road. It’s wilder in person.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000773.jpg)
This epitomizes a trip round Painswick. Where do I go now??
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000157.jpg)
I intentionally did not look at photo threads prior to the trip, wanting to enjoy a bit of the discovery. James Boon had the most recent one (and it’s quite good), though it seems that not all of the photo links are still working.
http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,35805.0/
Players have to share the land with walkers, runners, & dogs. Sometimes all of them on the same hole. Rather than being a huge distraction, I think this usage of the land makes the course somewhat more endearing.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000143.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000196.jpg)
The tee shot for the fifth. The hole is only 114 yards, but the green is completely hidden behind a bronze-age fort wall. Scott Warren asked me how long it took to figure out where we were going, and for good reason. Jason & I both trusted the yardage on the card and the aiming point, and had this result. Give me more blind tee shots!
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000148.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000151.jpg)
Near the fifth green is the highest point on the course. There is a marker with this plate on a trig point.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000159.jpg)
And what a spectacular view from there.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000160.jpg)
This cottage off the 8th fairway was spectacular.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000177.jpg)
I cannot believe anyone that was big enough to dent this bench was able to walk the course.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000205.jpg)
A small viewing platform so you can see the 17th fairway. I got to see very little of that fairway.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000209.jpg)
Road crossings happen a number of times, as do fairways crossing each other. This was the last road to worry about. (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000206.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000211.jpg)
Off to the side of the 17th green is an area used for cricket.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000214.jpg)
We settled up our green fees after finishing and hit the road down to Burnham & Berrow. The route to the motorway was a bit confusing, taking us on some really small side roads. Worth the detour when you can spot a sign like this.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/painswick/P1000216.jpg)
Painswick was everything that I hoped it would be and more. Site of one of the early Buda cups, it was a treat. The second course of the trip that’s under 6,000 yards (this one is under 5,000), but climbing fort those fort walls is quite a walk.. Like Kington, Painswick shows that length isn’t everything in golf. There was a great deal of variety in the holes, with opportunities to play all sorts of interesting shots. The use of the hills, fort walls, and old quarrying pits will be an enduring memory.
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I was sure you two would enjoy Painswick. I played in Buda II there, and returned with tolerant spouse in 2005 en route to the Open in St Andrews. Here's my report from 2005, "The Pleasures of Painswick." (I have no idea if the photos will work after all these years!)
http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,19265.msg341710/#msg341710
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[Kevin,
Ok, more like four hours.
John
I was being serious as my relatives are in Bristol and was wondering how long it takes to get there.
Thanks for the pics of Painswick - another on my to do list :)
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Thanks for posting that thread Bill. I don't think I had seen it before.
Kevin,
According to google maps, it's a mere 163 miles from LHR to Kington. So if you can average 40 miles per hour, it's doable in four hours. I wish we had more time to look around on the way.
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John,
Great stuff! I love the Painswick pictures, especially that arrow. Do you remember which hole that was on?
Regarding the 5th, I'd love to stand on the ridge and watch several groups play there approach shots, as from my experience it seems that the puncbowl effect of the green gathers the ball in from just about anywhere.
Thanks for the link to my old thread on Painswick, which also acted as a useful reminder to finish off updating the picture links. These should be sorted now, so feel free to go back for further browsing everyone!
And I have to ask, I don't suppose you remember where that Squirrel crossing sign was do you? I can add it to the Otters Crossing sign I saw on the way to Askernish!
I hope you have some pics of Burnham & Berrow, though part of me is dreading what you might have photographed out there... ;D
Cheers,
James
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James,
The arrow at Painswick pointed the way to the 6th tee.
I spotted the squirrel sign around Edge somewhere on our way to Haresfield & the M5.
Will post Burnham & Berrow pics tonight or tomorrow.
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After successfully avoiding crossing squirrels, we hustled down the M5 to a delightful course located between Burnham-on-Sea & Berrow. After trips around Kington & Painswick, I had to adjust to a bit more conventional style of course. Burnham & Berrow is anything but boring, with holes through the dunes, marsh, blind shots, and a truly memorable finish.
I suggest checking out Sean Arble’s IMO piece for more detail on the course.
http://golfclubatlas.com/in-my-opinion/burnham-berrow-golf-club
Directional assistance for the approach to the excellent third hole. Avoid bunkers off the tee, & your approach may be blind.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000227.jpg)
After a couple of rounds playing on hills, finally a view of the sea!
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000229.jpg)
First two courses were bunkerless, this one wasn’t. The course doesn’t rely on bunkers as much as many links do, but still several of the deep variety. My ineptitude from the sand on this trip made me long for Kington.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000234.jpg)
A favorite sight on British seaside courses.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000237.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000239.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000238.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000240.jpg)
I wonder how many life preservers at Celtic Manor?
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000245.jpg)
The strange grass hazards on the 8th.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000248.jpg)
The tenth requires a blind tee shot over a dune that is much taller than it appears in this photo.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000251.jpg)
Be sure to ring the bell.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000254.jpg)
On the 11th hole, you get to start looking forward to the iconic church tower.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000256.jpg)
Stunning.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000261.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000264.jpg)
Golfers aren’t the only people using the course.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000263.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000269.jpg)
The public path to the beach makes a nice sandy hazard. Grounding my club didn’t help.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000267.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000268.jpg)
The day ended beautifully. I would have loved to go back out, but beer, dinner, & Porthcawl beckoned.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000287.jpg)
I saw a similar admonition at some of the other clubs I visited.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000289.jpg)
I wish this photo had come out better. I really liked the last line on the sign: “If you are in any doubt about what you are wearing, then it is probably unacceptable!”
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000290.jpg)
Burnham & Berrow was hugely fun. I loved the variety of holes and the fact that almost all seemed to play with a side wind. James Boon & Sean Arble have chosen well.
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Looks like loads of fun John, thanks for the tour. One regret for sure not going down there to play with you guys. It'll be on the docket next year I have no doubt. [IF James or Sean will have me, of course!]
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B&B was the big surprise for me on the trip. I did not know much about it but thought it sat on terrific ground and provided a high quality straightforward test (at least compared to other venues on the trip). James Boon was a terrific host and after Painswick and Kington it was nice to not worry about cow pies for an afternoon.
Incidentally James explained that the long grass in the eighth fairway exists due to an environmentally sensitive flower growing in those locations.
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John,
More excellent pictures! I'm guessing it wasn't your group that spotted the snake on the 12th fairway then otherwise we would have been seeing him as well? ;)
It was a pleasure to be able to show you guys around Burnham, and if any of you make your way that way again (or for the first time Eric) be sure to let me know!
Cheers,
James
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James,
I think you will recall that we managed to work out that the reason only one group saw the snake was because it was in the middle of the fairway.
-
Great update John. That is a fantastic photo of the church tower and 12th green from short right.
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James,
I think you will recall that we managed to work out that the reason only one group saw the snake was because it was in the middle of the fairway.
By the time I saw the snake (in the last group), he was over by the fairway bunker on the left side, so I got a look at him walking by. Big guy!
B&B was terrific, more variety than any other mostly links course I've played. Great set of Colt par 3s, if those are indeed Colt. I also like Fowler holes a lot and think he worked there extensively pre-Colt.
The marsh side holes were a bit out of place but added greatly to the variety of the course. Thanks to James for making the arrangements, a very good day!
-
...
The strange grass hazards on the 8th.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000248.jpg)
...
Now we know where D. Kidd got his "eyebrows" and "mohawks" idea.
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Again, great stuff, John!!!
I love the photo from inside the pillbox... who else would have thought to go in there!!!!
Your picture of the "Squirrel Crossing" sign made me think of this:
(http://www.theequinest.com/images/squirrel-7.jpg)
Keep up the good work!
Mike
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Jason & Garland,
I failed to mention the flowers in the grassy area. Partly because I didn't actually see any. This seems to be one of those things that the course just has to deal with.
James & Mark,
We did not see the snake, but my three ball did at least visit that fairway.
Scott,
I longed for a better camera. The course looked amazing late in the round.
Michael,
If I had known about the snake, I wouldn't have gone in the pillbox!!
Funny squirrel pic there.
-
...
The strange grass hazards on the 8th.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000248.jpg)
...
I saw similar hazards at Tenby as well.
(http://i464.photobucket.com/albums/rr7/rednorman/photo-103.jpg)
-
...
The strange grass hazards on the 8th.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/burnham/P1000248.jpg)
...
I saw similar hazards at Tenby as well.
(http://i464.photobucket.com/albums/rr7/rednorman/photo-103.jpg)
I hate those rough patches - they look silly and I have never noticed any sort of special flower growing in that soup. Perhaps they only flower once a lifetime! At the very least they could alter the shape of the patches so they aren't so round. Or better yet, widen the fairway out to the water right, but leave these "flower" areas connected to the rough which cuts in from the water.
Ciao
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John,
More excellent pictures! I'm guessing it wasn't your group that spotted the snake on the 12th fairway then otherwise we would have been seeing him as well? ;)
They have snakes in England ? ;D
John
Am glad you enjoyed B&B - it's a fun and enjoyable layout. BTW - have you been to Rye to see it's concrete bunker ?
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Am glad you enjoyed B&B - it's a fun and enjoyable layout. BTW - have you been to Rye to see it's concrete bunker ?
Yep, but I didn't go inside.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/rye/rye4pillbox.jpg)
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Jihn,
Thanks again for the unique perspective on B&B. My wife and I stopped there to arrange a game early the next mormning on our last trip to England. Is there a course that reveals less than B&B from the clubhouse; one green and one tee is all you can see! We did stop for a pint and there were some fine golf books see within the friendly confines of the cozy clubhouse. Sadly we didn't have the opportunity to play early so had to be on our way; looks like we missed a fine links experience.
-
After Burnham & Berrow, we headed up to Royal Porthcawl. After visiting the P&K parking lot, we finally managed to find the Porthcawl clubhouse and dormie house in the dark. The bar staff was kind enough to stay open for a while to accommodate us. The bar was about as comfortable as one could ask for.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000402.jpg)
The sommelier going describing a wine. Oh, never mind - that's Ward. Seated from left are Hiseman, Arble, Gawith, & Topp. The photos are of past club captains.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000399.jpg)
A small starter hut (I think) near the back tee on the first. From that tee, you play directly over the 18th green.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000296.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000294.jpg)
The course is bordered by the sea on one side and farmland on the other.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000321.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000326.jpg)
OB left on the short par 5 8th is right beside the greensite.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000332.jpg)
The bunker that effectively ended my match against Tony Muldoon. I forget how many it took me to get out.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000357.jpg)
The red flags are striking.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000373.jpg)
A path to one of the back tees.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000384.jpg)
And a fairway.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000393.jpg)
Heather on steroids. This stuff looked brutal, but fortunately it was pretty much out of play (not for me).
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000389.jpg)
The 18th greensite.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000378.jpg)
In the dining room, there is this sculpture to commemorate those Porthcawl members that died in The Great War. A plate was subsequently added with the names of those that died in WWII.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/porthcawl/P1000379.jpg)
Porthcawl was lacking in quirk, but plenty strong in quality.
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I was hoping you would get back to this. Too bad you did not have the camera at that pub in Painswick with the giant dog the guys headed to candlepin bowling, the Australian couple and the bartender wise to the ways of the world who informed us that we had toured all of the pubs in Painswick (one).
It was good to warm up with that crown before meeting Ward and Lorne.
-
Hard to believe it’s been so long since I posted photos from Porthcawl. The next course on my trip was Clyne, another pasture-type course located on a hill overlooking Swansea and the Gower Peninsula. Unfortunately, my photos don’t do a very good job showing the great views available.
Clyne was designed by Colt, but it’s not easily identifiable as such. The course uses the land effectively, but not much in the way of fairway bunkering. It’s probably worth a complete profile if I can make time to do so, but for now just a few images that give a feel for the course.
No shortage of first tee information.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000433.jpg)
Pretty good viewing from up there.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000441.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000442.jpg)
The ground offers plenty of variety.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000412.jpg)
A collection of onlookers. Note the one scratching his back on the bench.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000413.jpg)
Sheep weren’t the only residents.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000454.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000444.jpg)
This hole cleverly employed an “aiming sheep” to help one select the right line from the tee. It’s necessary to play across a not-very-busy road on either the tee shot or approach.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000449.jpg)
Apparently the fences don’t keep the ponies off the greens.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000427.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000415.jpg)
Plenty of room off most of the tees, with enough gorse & bracken to keep things interesting.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000448.jpg)
A nice use of the slightly built up green with short grass to help misplayed shots run off. So simple, yet effectively used here & at Kington.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000460.jpg)
One place you really don’t want to have your tee shot end up.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1000462.jpg)
Fortunately, local rule 4a helped me out.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/clyne/P1010282.jpg)
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Tucky
Nice pix. I still haven't played Clyne due to its proximity to Pennard, but it looks to be Kington light. Same general sort of land (looks a bit less interesting), but a lot less daring with the green sites.
Ciao
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Sean,
Clyne did remind me of Kington somewhat, with less interesting land. You're right about the green sites.
It's a good course, but played in the same day as Pennard it's hard to compete.
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John,
Thanks for continuing the tour! The funny thing about Clyne is the main thing that I remember is Wardo's trousers!
I thought it was a very enjoyable course, with some great views, but as you say, playing Pennard the same day probably doesn't help us remember it well! I didn't think it felt very much like a lot of other Colt courses I've played though, perhaps a little rough around the edges. Not in terms of condition of the course as with the grazing animals that would be a touch unfair, but more in it not seeming as polished as some of his other designs?
Cheers,
James
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While the views at Clyne were wonderful, they did little to prepare me for Pennard. Located about 200 feet above the sea, views are spectacular & the course is one of the wildest I’ve seen. For those that haven’t seen the course, Sean Arble’s IMO article is well worth reviewing.
http://golfclubatlas.com/in-my-opinion/pennard-golf-club
The description of “links in the sky” is a good one.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000589.jpg)
Not sure how much usage this guy gets nowadays. Pennard seems like the kind of place where it would work just fine.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000588.jpg)
One thing to note about Pennard – golfers share the property with……
Cows
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000584.jpg)
A team of runners (in the red shirts)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000480.jpg)
Dog walkers & hikers
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000479.jpg)
And even horseback riders.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000468.jpg)
Somehow everyone seems to coexist just fine, though there was a group of hugely inconsiderate walkers out there during one of our rounds. What made things worst about them was they spent time dining in the clubhouse, so they should have known better.
We were blessed with plenty of wind to keep things interesting. The mesh flags are a great idea.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000564.jpg)
I’m just not sure how a flagstick like this one survives.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000466.jpg)
Joe’s hat didn’t fare so well.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000614.jpg)
Fortunately we never had to use one of these.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000484.jpg)
The views were stunning.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000470.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000482.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000520.jpg)
The ruined castle by the 7th fairway occupied an incredible piece of land. (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000469.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000599.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000602.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000600.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000601.jpg)
Part of a church wall on the left side of the 7th.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000473.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000474.jpg)
This looked like a perfect spot to add a par 3 course.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000472.jpg)
One of my favorite spots was standing on the 16th tee.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000570.jpg)
Though the view from the far back tee on 17 looking out at the sea was even better.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000610.jpg)
One thing I didn’t expect to see in Wales – a palm tree!
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000510.jpg)
As great as the views were, I’ll remember Pennard just as much for the rumpled fairways and bold greens.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000525.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000530.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000471.jpg)
And of course the cows. Here these members of the grounds crew were working on a new bunker.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000481.jpg)
While this one just had a grouchy look. How come?
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000586.jpg)
Oh. That explains it.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000490.jpg)
The soul of golf lives at Pennard.
-
Thanks John
I have just added Pennard as a must see when I next visit the UK. It will be a good excuse for me to leave the Mrs with her family at Bristol while I visit the links across the border at Wales.
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Kevin,
You won't be sorry.
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John - Your pictorials are the one thing on GCA.com that I always show my wife. They are so much fun and clever. Thank you for helping us frame our memories of these courses with something other than the typical ass shots that wind up on my camera. Well done!!!
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Thanks John
I have just added Pennard as a must see when I next visit the UK. It will be a good excuse for me to leave the Mrs with her family at Bristol while I visit the links across the border at Wales.
Kevin, don't know if you've played Burnham and Berrow, but it's even closer to Bristol, just south on the English side of the Bristol Channel. It's a delightful course.
-
Thanks John
I have just added Pennard as a must see when I next visit the UK. It will be a good excuse for me to leave the Mrs with her family at Bristol while I visit the links across the border at Wales.
Kevin, don't know if you've played Burnham and Berrow, but it's even closer to Bristol, just south on the English side of the Bristol Channel. It's a delightful course.
Just pick a day when the wind is not blowing 30+ mph from the N, NW. The front nine can be unplayable under those conditions.
I didn't see much commentary about Southerndown? Would like to hear impressions.
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Kevin, don't know if you've played Burnham and Berrow, but it's even closer to Bristol, just south on the English side of the Bristol Channel. It's a delightful course.
Bill
Yes - I have been fortunate to have graced the fairways of B&B. As you say - it's a delightful layout with some cracking holes.
Pennard and St Enodoc are two in the south-west region that I need to make a priority to see.
-
Michael,
Thanks. I just wish I could be faster about posting sometimes.
Lou,
I'll post some photos of Southerndown in the next few days (hopefully).
-
It was a strange experience travelling with John for a week and to see him veer off in all sorts of strange directions to take these pictures. I was particularly concerned about his fascination with sheep.
I really appreciate this thread because many of the details of the trip, such as the bench dented by what must have been a 2000 pound person, the lookout tower at Clyne and the funny signs that exist in that part of the world would have largely faded from memory by now.
The squirrel crossing sign - that memory will never fade, particularly given the ferociousness with which John demanded I stop the car. I thought I had run over something.
-
What wonderful photos and commentaries! There's a good book in the making here. Thank you, John.
-
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/pennard/P1000474.jpg)
Reminds me of one of Sean’s best ....lines.
On the tee. “The aim here is to keep it separate from Church and State...”
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What wonderful photos and commentaries! There's a good book in the making here. Thank you, John.
Thanks. That's very kind to say.
Jason,
I'm glad we had your quick reflexes behind the wheel. And you were the guy driving the streets of Painswick.
Tony,
I don't think I had seen that line before. It's classic.
-
Part of the fun of playing Pennard was staying in the lively city of Mumbles. I took some photos but cannot seem to find them. The one I really wanted to post was a photo of the White Rose pub just up the street from our B&B. It’s been a LONG time since I was in a group to shut down a bar on back-to-back nights. Of course, one night was around midnight and the next around 11PM – Mumbles isn’t the liveliest place!
Before moving on to Southerndown, a brief story about the B&B or guest house that I stayed in. Jason & I made the mistake of booking the accommodations in Mumbles on the night of our Porthcawl dinner. Like most Americans used to staying in hotels that are staffed 24 hours, I gave little thought to our time of arrival. I did call a couple of times from Porthcawl to assure the proprietor that we were coming, but we ended up not getting there til past midnight. I was the recipient of a tongue-lashing, where the lady of the house told me how lucky I was that she didn’t put a sign up in the window and let our rooms out to someone else.
The next morning at breakfast, Philip told her that he would only be staying one night instead of the two that he had reserved. She informed him that he would have to pay for both nights because she really did not want to try to find someone else “off the street” to take his room. I would have pointed out the inconsistency, but to be honest I was a little scared of her!
Southerndown is not far from Porthcawl, but is a different type of course. It’s called a “downland” course and is built on a layer of soil atop a large limestone hill. It plays a lot like a links, and also has all sorts of heather, bracken, & gorse. I expect at some point I’ll try to do a proper profile of the course as I think one is warranted. Anywhere that Fernie, Fowler, Park, & Colt touched is worthy of study.
We arrived at Southerndown a bit late, and that resulted in a schedule conflict with a ladies event – a team competition they called a Ryder Cup. The staff was very helpful in moving us around, but the net effect was a disruption to member play there and that was unfortunate.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000677.jpg)
The clubhouse is situated partly up a large hill. This ruined castle sits at the bottom of the hill.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000626.jpg)
The castle from a bit nearer.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000688.jpg)
Southerndown also has sheep, and apparently an ineffective fence around the practice green.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000685.jpg)
Dogs, sadly, are not welcome. Damned commoners agreement.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000625.jpg)
The course starts off with a huge hill climb. Looking back from the first green shows how winded one might get at the start.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000631.jpg)
One benefit of the climb is the tremendous views, including this estuary.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000633.jpg)
Gorse and bracken are threats on most of the holes. There is probably a bit too much in spots.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000632.jpg)
As you might expect given the architectural heritage, some really strong green sites and bunkering.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000637.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000649.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000641.jpg)
I had the toughest time figuring out what these coat racks were doing on the course. Someone explained that these hold bags of divot mix. Oh, that is way better than what I came up with.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000653.jpg)
At least I knew what this was for.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000664.jpg)
The two-level 18th fairway is worth a look.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000675.jpg)
In the clubhouse, a classic upstairs locker room. The glare from the window prevents you from seeing the awesome view of the course.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000678.jpg)
Other clubs would do well to follow Southerndown’s example here – a private club room for kids. Great idea.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/southerndown/P1000624.jpg)
Southerndown was an excellent course. It’s a hard one to describe, and I am sure a second trip around really helps one understand it better. I’m really glad that I got to see it. Amazing what a trip I had up until this point considering how little-known all of the courses are (at least outside of the UK and/or architecture geek circles).
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Tucky
I look forward to a proper review of Southerndown, not that your current musings aren't proper! I too think it a wonderful course and despite my recent light bulb moment with Porthcawl Southerdown remains my second favourite in Wales. As you rightly point out, the only real drawback to the course is the profusion of lost ball opportunities - nothing that a Merion like scythe can't cure. Thanks for all the pix, they have been a wonderful reminder of an incredible itinerary. Many props to ya.
Ciao
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John,
Yet another wonderful run of images. I suspect the sheep are the reason no dogs are allowed at Southerndown.
It was a long time since I had played at Southerndown and the course was stronger than I remembered. An excellent way to round off an excellent trip.
Finally, my last abiding image of this year's BUDA will be the sight of Conrad standing by his car, parked on a roundabout, as you and Jason and I drove off, as he yet again pondered how anyone in the motor trade could be stupid enough to put unleaded in a diesel. I'd have loved to have a picture of that. Thanks again for the lift, it was the only way I was getting home that night!
-
Mark,
I guess the sheep would be a good reason not to let dogs come around.
If we hadn't given you a lift, we would never have gotten to see the timeless charm of Slough. So we should be thanking you.
-
After Southerndown, it was time to head back to the London area for my last night of the trip and one final round of golf at Woking. Mark Chaplin was good enough to provide a hotel recommendation in Worplesdon, and it was a nice little town to stay in. At least to a small extent my trip included two of the Ws.
Before leaving the hotel to play golf, I took a little walk around the neighborhood. Here’s something that you probably don’t see on many playgrounds in the US.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000692.jpg)
My flight home wasn’t until 2:30 in the afternoon, so we arranged to be first off Woking at 8AM. We managed to arrive plenty early, with only one small wrong turn on the way. The club isn’t the easiest to find. Unfortunately, the pro’s shop was a bit slow to open that day, and I was starting to get nervous about finishing – why, I don’t know. After all, a two-ball shouldn’t take more than three hours, even if taking lots of photos.
Completely unsolicited, the assistant secretary sent out someone from the clubhouse with a couple of scorecards. He said that he had noticed the golf staff was running late that morning and did not want us to have to wait around. Just come by and settle up after the round. That little bit of thoughtfulness is one of my favorite memories of the trip.
We caught a foggy morning, so my photos aren’t the best. Still, they help me remember another great day at the first heathland course.
Still gotta share the course.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000693.jpg)
The grounds are both simple and elegant. The path to the left leads to the clubhouse & the one to the right the first tee.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000697.jpg)
The pro’s shop is in the same style as the clubhouse.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000699.jpg)
Though there is a pretty good practice area, this was also available near the clubhouse and first tee. Do you really need anything more?
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000694.jpg)
A few first tee instructions. As we would see later, the instructions about the heather are warranted.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000695.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000743.jpg)
Here’s how you want to start the round……or do you?
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000696.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000698.jpg)
The photo doesn’t do a good job of showing it, but the first green gives a great introduction to the cleverness of the greens. The front to back slope on a driveable par 4 is an excellent defense. Note the tall flagstick to aid your view from the tee. How tall?
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000703.jpg)
Pretty tall!
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000704.jpg)
The green complex on the 3rd is really memorable for the shape of the green and the perfect placement of the bunker.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000708.jpg)
Though the course is in many ways idyllic, there are reminders how near you are to a busy city. A train going past might bother a lesser player.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000710.jpg)
Looking back towards the fairway on the famous 4th. Tough hole location behind the bunker, and if you look closely you can see the outlines of the fairway bunkering as well.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000716.jpg)
Though not one of the more-discussed holes, this green site on the 5th speaks volumes about the simple charms of Woking.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000720.jpg)
As does this little stone bridge back at the tee.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000718.jpg)
Supposedly there is an airport or two nearby.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000722.jpg)
A water hazard!
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000723.jpg)
With a bit of thoughtfulness & practicality thrown in.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000724.jpg)
I was really sorry that I didn’t get a chance to enjoy a drink on the patio, but was very glad that no one was sitting there when I had to hit my approach. I did fine, but a bladed shot could be scary.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000747.jpg)
Not much water on the course, but apparently the need for a flotation device. I would have gone with a different shape.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000760.jpg)
Just like the start of the round, the end also featured a short par 4. Having been closed out in our match on the 17th, I was free to pretend I was brave enough to go for the green off the tee. Ended up short & dry.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000759.jpg)
My second trip to England, and I didn’t have to use one of these either time. Luck, or is the wet weather exaggerated? Or some of each?
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000767.jpg)
We had a few minutes to look around the clubhouse, and I’m glad that I did. On display are curling stones from the club’s old, old days. A pretty good drubbing of Wimbledon back in 1903.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000769.jpg)
The highlight was reading some excerpts from the club’s suggestion book. This one, signed by Stuart Paton, addressed concerns about hole locations. Given the work that this brilliant amateur architect performed on the course, I hope they listened.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s196/jmayhugh/woking/P1000764.jpg)
How to summarize this trip? I think it’s safe to say that no one preceding us has played the same itinerary, and a travel company would have a tough time selling it. I feel fortunate to have played each course we chose, and my only regret of the trip is getting but one trip around several of the courses. I only hope to see each and every one of them again.
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I don't know Tucky, your itinerary (and the fact you convinced someone to tag along!) is one of the best I have ever come across. Its not often I am jealous of a tour, but you sir have brought it out in me. THanks for all the effort of this expose.
Ciao
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Woking is the only decent course within a 100 miles that I have yet to play, Mayhugh's excellent shots have given me the drive to make sure I play there PDQ.
John the shape of the floatation device means even the fattest member can at least get an arm in!
Once again you've submitted a wonderful photo essay of a tour capturing the spirit of the clubs as well as decent course photos. Cannot wait for 2011's version.
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John,
A great collection of courses, pictures and memories! I very much look forward to next years Buda tour and the chance to catch up again! Thanks for completing the thread with Woking, as I'll be there just after Christmas if the weather holds out okay? It looks delightful.
Cheers,
James
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Great work John! Why can't more of our 1000+ members share their experiences like John does? Altthough he doesn't do 18 tees and 18 greens you still get the flavour of each course he visits. Perhaps others don't possess the love of the game that John does. In any case cheers for the tour and a happy Thanksgiving to one and all.
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Pete - I'd say John gives us more of the flavour by not taking pictures of 18 tees and greens
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Sean,
That is high praise indeed, though I deserve little credit. All but three of the courses were either part of Buda or pre/post options. Credit needs to go to you, Boony, & Tony for me having those on the itinerary. I also have to credit you & Pearce for your love of Kington as that's what inspired me to commit the windshield time to see it. Bill McBride sold me on Painswick and Jason picked out Woking for our wrap-up, so my part was easy.
Mark & James,
Hoping Buda next year works out, but with Delta being stingy with frequent flier tickets and the trip to Australia, 2011 Buda may be more difficult than the last two. I would hate to miss it.
Pete & Mark,
That's really nice of you to say. Truth is, I just sort of stumbled across doing this because it seems so many courses already have detailed photo threads anyway.
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Great pics of Woking, mate. I agree with you on #5 - it's a hole that deserves a lot more discussion than it gets. 1-6 is an amazing start.
Chappers, for 40 quid as a twilight rate, you should get there PDQ!
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I wondered when you would add Woking and now I realize I missed it. Incidentally, I may have hit the train with that tee shot. In the afternoon, I bailed out left.
This is the thread I send to people rather than try and explain the trip. Trying to describe the trip in a way that a casual listener will understand is almost impossible. This thread describes it perfectly in terms of place.
Now if I could figure out a way to explain the people that attend these events. . . .
Maybe it is better that John's thread focuses on other things . . . .
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Thanks for a really enjoyable and informative tour, John. All these courses are within three hours drive for me and as a relative newcomer to the game you have given me some great ideas for an itinery of my own. Kington, Painswick, and Penarth in particular look like essential stops.
Cheers
Duncan
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John,
Thanks for these pictures and comments. Great stuff.
I absolutely love Woking and think it is first rate.
As commented on the start is great (ie 1-6). But what about the stretch from 7-13? Some great
and hard (8,9) holes in there as you work back up the hill you come off of on 6. I think the place
is about as good as it gets. Superb greens, variety, serenity. Hard to beat and plays much longer than
the yards for those that want to classify it as a shorty.