GULLANE GOLF CLUB – A SCOTTISH GEM ON THE FIRTH OF FORTH by Pim Nuiten (The Netherlands)

 

“When you think of Scotland, you think of golf. And if you’re looking for a place where history, breathtaking scenery, and challenging fairways come together in perfect harmony, look no further than Gullane Golf Club. Nestled on the windswept coastline of East Lothian—just a short drive from Edinburgh—this course is a must-play for anyone with a love for the game. A Course with a Soul.”

And so we did! What could be better than playing golf in Scotland, the cradle of modern golf! So, a small group of members being  Clément (France), Brian (USA), Gloria (Spain), Pim and Julia (Netherlands) put on their golf shoes and took up the challenge. With a bus, well organized by Mason, we left on May 7. to the Gullane Golf Club. Against all Scottish expectations, it was perfect weather with a lot of sun and a pleasant temperature of 18 to 20 degrees. But the wind at the course is no joke. Locals say that if you think there  is no sound of wind,  you’re probably deaf. Or as they say: “Nae wind, nae golf”

Golf has been formally played at this golf course since 1882. The club boasts three courses, simply named No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3—each with its own personality but all sharing that authentic links golf DNA. The No. 1 Course, the oldest and most prestigious, regularly features in world rankings and has hosted the Scottish Open multiple times. We played the 18 holes at the number 2.

In two flights, all the players  played well and concentrated golf and competed for the IGAL Golf challenge trophy! But above all, it was fun and brought a huge experience.

After the scores were counted while enjoying a drink on the terrace in the sun (!), and the experiences were shared, the IGAL- players returned “homewards”. Back to the great Caledonian Hotel in Edinburgh, situated nearby wonderful Edinburgh Castle.

On the Saturday evening during dinner on the Royal Yacht Britannia, thanks in part to Jane who had brought the Trophy with her, the IGAL Golf challenge trophy could be presented to Brian, who had won the golf competition with his constant play. The winner also received from Clément the special cufflinks of Titleist, the winner’s regular golf ball brand!

The players agreed that The Gullane Golf Club is a place where the spirit of Scottish golf lives and breathes. It’s authentic, awe-inspiring, and challenging—in all the right ways.  They will not take this lasting impression of Gullane away from us!

To end this report with a Scottish proverb about golf:  “The most important shot in golf is the next one ! “