Royal Aberdeen Golf Club
(Balgownie Links)

Royal Aberdeen is a bastion of Scottishgolf history. Golf in the area dates from the 16th century while RoyalAberdeen Golf Club, founded in 1780, is the sixth oldest golfing club inthe world. In 1783, a meticulous group of Aberdeen members were the firstto implement the five minute limit on a search for a lost ball. (How couldany Scotsman give up property so easily?) In 1849, the Club greens keeperinvented the first tool for cutting cup and flagstick holes. In 1872, theleading professionals of the day, Young Tom Morris and David Strath(designer of the famed West Links of North Berwick), played a match on theoriginal course. Young Tom established a record score of 60-58 twicearound the 14-hole layout. In 1877, Robert Simpson of Carnoustie designedthe present Balgownie championship course. Later his relative, the famousArchie Simpson, served as club professional before emigrating toCincinnati. In the early twentieth century, golf-crazed King Edward VIIentitled the Club to its Royal prefix.

The Simpson brothers' design isoutstanding. In fact, noted golf writer, Bernard Darwin, wrote that hisfirst round at Aberdeen completed a significant gap in his golfingeducation. Wind is always a factor as the holes change direction in a mostsubtle manner. Ball control is at a premium as severely undulatingfairways are bordered by punishing rough and dense gorse. Two burnsmeander through the links in most interesting-and demanding-locations. Theoutstanding outward nine weaves among tall dunes and is quite challengingwith the first four holes playing 409, 530, 223 and 423 yards. Theshorter, inward nine is less scenic and was at one time less challengingas well despite the difficulty of the two finishing holes. Donald Steel'srecent improvements have made the inward nine every bit the equal of itsmore attractive sister. One might say surgeon Steel has given the old girla backside the equal of her most impressive front. We find Royal Aberdeento possess the best combination of opening and finishing holes anywhereand an absolute delight to play.

Independent travellers: Located two milesnorth of the centre of Aberdeen off the A92, the club is not easily found.Travelling north on the A92, turn right (east) at the traffic lightsimmediately after crossing the Bridge of Don. If you miss the turn, youwill come to a large roundabout; turn around and try again (see theMajor's attempt at mapmaking enclosed). If lost, ring 01224 702571 fordirections. The staff has talked more than one confused visitor into asafe landing. Report to the pro shop and be prepared to carry your bag.There are few caddies.

Lady and gentleman visitors are welcomein the Main Lounge and Dining Room amid a plethora of golfing memorabilia.Coat and tie is required. Men may take drinks and snacks in the Old Bar ingolfing attire. The ladies' changing facilities are situated at the ladiesentrance to the clubhouse on its northern end.