Royal Troon Golf Course – The Pride of Ayrshire
Located on the west coast of Scotland, Royal Troon Golf Course is one of the most prestigious courses in the world, often referred to as the "Pride of Ayrshire". Established in 1878, it occupies a prime location in the charming town of Troon, overlooking the rugged coastline of the Firth of Clyde. Boasting a rich legacy, Royal Troon has hosted the Open Championship nine times, with the most recent being in 2016.
Royal Troon comprises of two 18-hole links courses, the Old Course and the Portland Course. The Old Course, also known as the Championship Course, is the more renowned of the two, covering an area of over 7,208 yards and featuring the famous Postage Stamp hole, one of the shortest par 3s in championship golf. The Portland Course, which opened in 1895, is shorter and more accessible than the Old Course, featuring narrow fairways and challenging greens.
The Old Course at Royal Troon is a stern test of golfing ability, demanding accuracy and precision from shot to shot. The course starts and finishes along the seafront, and golfers are greeted with stunning sea views as they play their way through the course. The opening holes are relatively straightforward, but the challenge picks up from hole number 4, where the course takes a sharp turn towards the sea, and the wind can play a significant role in determining shot selection. The signature hole, the 8th Postage Stamp, is a mere 123 yards in length, but with a tiny green surrounded by bunkers and rough, it is a hole that can make or break a round. The closing stretch of holes 15, 16, and 17, known as the Crosbie, Well, and Rabbit, respectively, are amongst the toughest in golf, demanding steady nerves and a touch of magic to negotiate successfully.
Away from the links, Royal Troon boasts excellent facilities, including a pro-shop, a locker room, a restaurant, and a bar, all of which exhibit a traditional Scottish charm. Golfers can also get private tuition, including expert coaching and tailored advice to improve their game.
In summary, Royal Troon is a course that every golfer should have on their bucket list. The combination of challenging links courses, stunning sea views, and top-notch facilities provide an unparalleled golfing experience. With a history that dates back over a century, playing golf at Royal Troon is more than just a game; it is an experience that captures the essence of Scottish hospitality and golfing excellence. So why not pack your clubs and head to Troon, and experience golfing greatness at Royal Troon Golf Course.
