westerngailes

Western Gailes is rather less well renowned than some of Scotland's great links courses but there should be no doubt that it is still one of the very finest.

It was founded in 1897 as it had the perfect setting with easy access by rail from the city. An annual lease was secured from the Duke of Portland, who owned the land, for the princely sum of £65.00 offset by £15.00 negotiated for the grazing rights. The committee of the new club were in no doubt that the success of the club depended on attracting golfers who were already members of other clubs, but who understood the advantages of playing links golf. When Western Gailes was celebrating its 50th anniversary an appreciation of the club was written by Sam McKinlay, that eloquent and perceptive commentator on the game. He opened his remarks in the following way: "Western Gailes occupies a place in the affections of Scottish Golfers that cannot be explained solely on the grounds of its undoubted quality, its superb situation, or the creature comforts which its furnishes. Indeed, its claim to renown cannot be limited to Scotland.

In other parts of these islands, and in the United States, my mention of Gailes has brought a far-off look into the eyes of the listener, who has invariably remarked - 'Ah, Western Gailes!' For Gailes represents to the true golfer, to the connoisseur of the game, something approaching the ideal in golf. Western was bound to attract both top amateur and profesional events since Open champion Harry Vardon won the first major contest here with a 68 in 1903 the course has played host to the Curtis Cup, P.G.A. Championship, Seniors, Scottish and Boys Championships and the Ladies' Home Internationals, and many times been an Open Championship qualifying course.

The view form the clubhouse gives an instant picture of the delights Gailes has in store. The beautiful, light-coloured, fine bladed links turf reaches out in all directions, between intruding fingers of heather and protruding sand dunes. The hills of Arran and the sharp outline of Alisa Craig stand out from the shimmering sea. The course puts no more emphasis on length than it does on the delicate approach shot or the-well struck medium or long iron, but all these skills are examined during a round at Western Gailes. Perhaps that is why, combined with its beautiful setting and warm welcome, it has captivated so many golfers for so long and will always continue to do so.