Lorne Rubenstein's Feature Interview #2 is posted

[Ran Morrissett]

...and the subject matter is concentrated around the Scottish Highlands, a favorite spot in world golf for many.

As discussed on several threads previously, Lorne's new book A Season in Dornorch has been out from its publisher for 45 days. Several of us have already read it and for those who haven't, it will remind you of how simple and uncluttered golf can be. Asphalt cart paths, golf carts, the pencil and card mentality, five hour rounds, etc. have no place in this part of the world.

The opportunity to spend an extended amount of time in such an area and get to know the locals, etc. only helps to re-invigorate a person's love and appreciation for the game and that's exactly what happened with Lorne.

Given how early one has to get to the airport these days, if you're flying anywhere for the Christmas holidays, this book would make a great travel companion.

Cheers,

[Jeff Mingay]

I have to agree. Lorne's book is a must for all who participate in this discussion group. I enjoyed it very much. (As well as the interview.)

But, Ran,  don't listen to Lorne re: Essex's greens  . They're unquestionably some of the most fascinating putting surfaces in Canada. As you know, the problem is that most are half the size they were originally these days!

I'll have Lorne back to Essex once the green surfaces are reclaimed, as planned. Then we'll re-ask him how he'd compare Essex's greens to Ross's best elsewhere. Alright!

Nonetheless, A Season in Dornoch is one of those books that's "good for the game." I recommend it.

[Ran Morrissett]

Jeff, I knew you would be the first to respond!

[George Pazin]

Funny, Jeff's the first thought I had when I read that response, too...

Thanks for the book, Mr. Rubenstein. It was a pleasure to read, both informative & inspiring.

What is the locals' response to Rafferty's renovation plans? It
would seem to fly in the face of the Highland spirit.

Why are the medal tees kept closed at Dornoch (or other prominent courses in Scotland)? Is it a pace of play issue?

[Craig Disher]

Thanks for a great interview and the tip-off for a Christmas gift.

My wife and I spent several days in Dornoch in the early 80s and were shocked that the town was empty of tourists. I played the course several times - mostly as the only golfer out there. One local member that I played with was amused that we had driven all the way from St. Andrews and were staying for a while. Anyone know what the greens fees are now?

There still are many small towns in the UK where golf is a major focus. The course may not be of the same quality as Dornoch but the experience of meeting and playing with locals (clubs often have a weekly Stableford and will happily accept a guest - and take his money) can be just as rewarding.

[Rich_Goodale]

Craig

Today (Dec 11) you can play a round at RDGC for 40 pounds.  The price goes up to 60-70 pounds in the summer (100 pounds for an all day ticket).  You are very right about both the availability of many great golfing experiences in the small towns of Scotland, as well as the wisdom in staying for a few days in whatever town you happpen to find yourself in.

George

I don't know how the general practice of saving the "medal" tees for competitions arose, perhaps to save the wear and tear, perhaps to remind players that competitions are special.  It has never been a problem to me to show respect for this custom.

[Paul Daley]

Terrific interview with Lorne - a man who knows his golf, has travelled the world, and is living his life through our great game.

When checking out his wife's swing action on Royal Dornoch's 6th tee, I noticed Nell was beautifully 'on plane'. Definite cause for envy!

[Craig Van Egmond]

Paul,

I believe that the woman you are referring to in the picture of #6 is John Morrissett's wife and quite the golfer.

[lorne rubenstein]

Terrific interview with Lorne - a man who knows his golf, has travelled the world, and is living his life through our great game.

When checking out his wife's swing action on Royal Dornoch's 6th tee, I noticed Nell was beautifully 'on plane'. Definite cause for envy!

Hi Paul,

I'm pleased that you enjoyed my interview on Dornocn and hope you'll enjoy the book should you decide to pick it up. But one thing: I don't know whose wife that is on the sixth tee, but she's not mine. Nell doesn't play, although she does have a hell of a good swing when she does decide to hit a shot or two. On-plane too.

[lorne rubenstein]

I have to agree. Lorne's book is a must for all who participate in this discussion group. I enjoyed it very much. (As well as the interview.)

But, Ran,  don't listen to Lorne re: Essex's greens  . They're unquestionably some of the most fascinating putting surfaces in Canada. As you know, the problem is that most are half the size they were originally these days!

I'll have Lorne back to Essex once the green surfaces are reclaimed, as planned. Then we'll re-ask him how he'd compare Essex's greens to Ross's best elsewhere. Alright!

Yes, Jeff, please do have me back so that I can see the new old greens. I'm all for greens the size they were meant to be; Dornoch or Pine Valley-like.
Nonetheless, A Season in Dornoch is one of those books that's "good for the game." I recommend it.

[Paul Daley]

Thanks Craig for the tip about Nell being John's wife. I'd love to see the previous frame to observe just how she got so beautiifully on plane.

[Paul Daley]

Lorne,

I'm a goose!

Anyhow, I ordered your book today through Amazon and look forward to its arrival.