Western Gailes Historic Research Study

This article is on the wall of the bar in the clubhouse, but despite searching, an
original version has not been found. It is the earliest record found of the course
and the plan, although schematic, does show how much the layout has changed
since the earliest days, such as the 12th and 13th. It is hardly surprising as this
was when the Haskell ball started to replace Gutty balls. Over the next 30 years,
steel shafts replaced hickory and all courses had to adapt to reflect this
revolution in equipment.
Parts of the articles read as follows:
“The bunkers and natural hazards are so numerous that the committee have
not so far found it necessary to increase them.”
“In the opinion of Willie Fernie and others qualified to judge, one of the finest sea
courses in the West of Scotland.”
When describing the second hole, a hole that has not changed dramatically over
the years, it is interesting that it was originally designed as a par 5 but the green
could make it a par 6. This green could be seen as too challenging for a par 4.
“A good bit of ground has to be covered before the next green is reached. Like the
first it lies nicely among hillocks. If the line is kept long drivers should reach the
green in three strokes, so that the hole according to the Par standard, must be
put at 5. However as the approach shot has to be played with accuracy, we may
call this meanwhile a 6.”
Although the 6th is no longer a par 3, the 6th and 7th with their interesting
green complexes look to have remained in the same position through time.
“The 6th and 7th greens, which are situated in a valley some 50 or 60 yards in
width can be reached from the tee. In the realm of golf I do not know two finer
short holes.”