Andy Marshall PGA Professional’s Top 10 Courses in Ayrshire
Western Gailes Golf Club is a true links course where elements of nature, architecture and tradition come together to provide an amazing test of golf!
There is a traditional clubhouse with views out across the Firth of Clyde to the hills of Arran and the sharp outline of Ailsa Craig which has all the facilities you could possibly need and where you’ll receive a warm welcome.
The course itself provides a classic test of golf over undulating terrain with develish bukering, meandering burns and finely contoured greens all framed by natural sand dunes and t’s probably not until you play the last 3 holes that you truly know you have played a real classic – with you having to concentrate right up to the end of your round.
It’s reputation as one of the game’s finest and more exacting courses has spread worldwide as evidenced by its numerous visitors from around the world including golfing legends from this and the last century. The great Harry Vardon arrived at Western Gailes in June 1903 celebrating his fourth Open victory. In 1923 its attractions were being lauded by the then US Open Champion Gene Sarazen who played the course with three other outstanding professionals.
Greats from the second half of the 20th century such as Gary Player, Tom Watson and Tony Jacklin have also visited, while from the modern game Luke Donald, Rory McIlroy and Bubba Watson have all tested their mettle over this classic links course.
For the majority of golfers at approx. 6500 yards off the yellow tees (and just over 7000 yards from the back tees) Western Gailes should be a good test of golf and a very enjoyable experience – and I always relish playing it.
