Record-Breaking Golf Enthusiast Plays 652 Courses in One Year

News Summary

In a remarkable feat, 27-year-old Josh Simpson has broken the world record by playing 652 different golf courses in just one year. Inspired by the memory of his mother, this journey not only challenged him physically but also allowed him to raise over £45,000 for charity. Simpson’s dedication to golf included overcoming severe weather and logistical challenges. His inspiring story highlights the blend of passion, determination, and charity in the sport, making it a memorable and emotional journey for him.

Record-Breaking Golfing Feat: 652 Courses in Just One Year!

In an astonishing display of dedication and sheer love for the game, a 27-year-old golf enthusiast has smashed the world record for playing the most different golf courses in a single year. Josh Simpson has pushed the boundaries of what it means to be a golf lover by completing a staggering 652 courses, besting the previous record of 580 established by Patrick Koenig in 2023.

A Journey Inspired by Love

This extraordinary challenge began on January 24, 2025, and wrapped up on January 23, 2026, at the iconic Princes Golf Club in Kent. The motivations behind this monumental undertaking stem from a deeply personal place. Simpson lost his beloved mother, Sallie, to lung cancer in 2023, just after her diagnosis. This golf mission was not just about breaking records; it was a heartfelt tribute to her spirit.

Giving It His All

Simpson’s dedication was no small feat. He quit his job as a lawn-care specialist and invested in a £45,000 motorhome to embark on this year-long golf pilgrimage across the UK. Over the course of the year, he averaged an impressive 1.79 courses daily, proving that where there’s a will, there’s a way.

Raising Funds for a Worthy Cause

Not only did Simpson challenge himself physically and mentally, but he also embraced a mission to give back. He successfully raised over £45,000 for two charitable organizations: Macmillan Cancer Support and Tapping House Hospice in King’s Lynn. While initially facing hurdles with sponsorship and free course access, Simpson steadily built momentum, gathering support from generous golf clubs and fellow enthusiasts.

A Year Filled with Challenges

The journey was not without its difficulties. Simpson faced his fair share of weather challenges, navigating through torrential rains and fierce storms. On top of that, he had to contend with injuries and the soaring costs of fuel and food while traveling from course to course. A witness was required for every single round to help certify his record attempt, further complicating the logistics of this enormous task.

Memorable Experiences at Iconic Courses

Throughout his incredible journey, Simpson had the privilege of playing at some of the most prestigious courses in the UK, including Queenwood, Wentworth, Loch Lomond, Royal County Down, and Sunningdale Golf Club. Each game presented a unique experience, from teaming up with an opera singer to sharing rounds with the family of a Premier League footballer. It was a blend of excitement, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories.

Holidays on the Course

Even Christmas Day saw Simpson on the greens, playing at Swaffham Golf Club with his father as his verifier. Talk about a different way to celebrate the holidays! By the end of the challenge, Simpson felt both accomplished and ready for a break, admitting he was a little “sick of it” as his final month rolled in.

The Road Ahead

As Simpson relaxes after this ambitious endeavor, his next step is to submit more than 600 scorecards to the Guinness World Records for official recognition of his record-breaking journey. Additionally, he is planning to host a charity auction, providing an opportunity for others to bid for exclusive access to some of the remarkable courses he played throughout the year.

Reflections on the Experience

Simpson has expressed immense gratitude for the experience, acknowledging it as a true privilege to play golf uninterrupted. Though he misses the many people he met along the way, he now carries with him the lessons learned and the growth experienced during this emotional and transformative year.

So there you have it, folks! A heartwarming tale of determination and love for both golf and family that culminated in an unforgettable world record. Here’s to the spirit of adventure and making lasting memories!

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Royal Dornoch Announces Major Expansion and Charity Event

News Summary

Royal Dornoch Golf Club is set for significant growth with plans for a new links course, a short course, and a charity event for SSAFA on April 10, 2026. The expansion aims to enhance the golfing experience while supporting the Armed Forces community. Royal Dornoch’s rich history and ongoing developments make it a top destination for golf enthusiasts.

Big News at Royal Dornoch: A Major Expansion and an Exciting Charity Event!

Golf enthusiasts, gather around! One of the most prestigious and exclusive golf courses in the world, Royal Dornoch, is making headlines with some major plans for expansion, along with an exciting charity event that promises a full day of fun on the greens.

A Glimpse into Royal Dornoch’s History

Royal Dornoch is not just any golf course; it boasts a rich history that dates back over 150 years. With stunning views overlooking the Dornoch Firth, this 18-hole gem is known for its prestigious reputation, having originally been extended by the legendary Old Tom Morris, a key figure in golf history. The course has gained acclaim not through competitive championships, as it has never hosted an Open Championship, but through word-of-mouth and mentions from famous golf writers. The allure of Dornoch lies in its beautiful landscape, challenging holes, and unique remoteness.

Mark Your Calendars: SSAFA’s Royal Dornoch Golf Day

Getting golf lovers even more excited, the club will host the SSAFA’s Royal Dornoch Golf Day on April 10, 2026. This charity event supports SSAFA, an organization that has been dedicated to helping the Armed Forces community since 1885. Participants can expect an exciting day of golf on the Championship Course, complete with live scoring via Golf Sherpa. In addition to a fabulous round of golf, registration also includes some fantastic hospitality and networking opportunities at Royal Dornoch’s newly completed £13.9 million clubhouse.

Looking Ahead: Exciting Expansion Plans

But that’s not all! Royal Dornoch is also gearing up for an exciting expansion. The club has acquired additional land, paving the way for the *development of a brand-new links course, a short course, a driving range, and accommodations*. With these improvements, Royal Dornoch aims to attract new golfing visitors and enhance the experience of those who already treasure this stunning location.

Working with King Collins Golf, the existing Struie Course is set to be redesigned, a change that promises to elevate the golfing experience for all. With the ongoing investments and developments in the Highlands, including a new Tom Doak course at Cabot Highlands, the region is on track to become a premier golf destination.

Check Out the New Accommodations!

For those planning a visit, accommodations are getting an upgrade too. The nearby Dornoch Station Hotel has recently undergone renovations, making it a more appealing option for golf travelers seeking a cozy place to stay.

Annual Matches and Community Engagement

Royal Dornoch isn’t just about challenging holes and stunning views—it also thrives on community and camaraderie. The annual matches between Royal Dornoch and the Country Club of North Carolina are a testament to that spirit. These events foster friendships and highlight the *beauty of golfing as a community sport*, celebrating *camaraderie alongside competition*.

Why Royal Dornoch Stands Out

With its high rankings in golf course publications—placing second in Golf Digest, third in Golfweek, and fourth in Golf World for the best courses outside the U.S. and in the UK & Ireland—Royal Dornoch has secured its status as a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts.

Notable holes like the par-3 second and the infamous 14th hole, known as “Foxy,” challenge players and enhance the overall golfing experience. Moreover, the picturesque scenery and tranquil atmosphere of the Scottish Highlands provide a unique golfing adventure compared to more commercial courses like St. Andrews.

Conclusion

With significant plans for expansion and the excitement of the upcoming charity event, Royal Dornoch Golf Club is poised to enhance its status as a leading golf destination. Whether you’re an avid golfer looking to experience *the stunning courses* or someone who simply appreciates the beauty of the landscape, mark your calendars, because Royal Dornoch is ready to become the talk of the golfing world!

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Brooks Koepka Returns to PGA Tour at Farmers Insurance Open

News Summary

Brooks Koepka makes his much-awaited comeback to the PGA Tour at the 2026 Farmers Insurance Open, scheduled at Torrey Pines. Tee-off is set for this Thursday, with Koepka looking to secure his 10th PGA Tour victory. He faces tough competition as notable players like Xander Schauffele and Ludvig Aberg share the course. Live coverage can be followed on ESPN and Golf Channel, creating an exciting atmosphere for golf enthusiasts eager to witness Koepka’s performance and the unfolding of the tournament.

Brooks Koepka’s Exciting PGA Tour Comeback

Golf fans, mark your calendars! Brooks Koepka is back on the PGA Tour, and he’s set to make his highly anticipated return at the 2026 Farmers Insurance Open. This tournament is taking place at the iconic Torrey Pines, known for its stunning landscapes and challenging courses, making it the perfect venue for Koepka’s comeback. His first swing back into action is scheduled for this Thursday, with the first round kicking off at 12:10 p.m. ET.

The Big Moment

All eyes will be on Koepka as he tees off at 12:32 p.m. ET on the famed South Course. This tournament isn’t just another event for him; it’s a significant moment as he aims to clinch his 10th PGA Tour victory, a milestone that would mark his first win since he left for the LIV Golf series in 2022. Fans are eagerly hoping to see the Koepka magic back in action!

Strong Competition Awaits

Koepka won’t be the only star lighting up the course. The tournament boasts a remarkable lineup of players, including Xander Schauffele, Ludvig Aberg, Cameron Young, and J.J. Spaun. With such fierce competition, the stakes are high, making this edition of the Farmers Insurance Open one of the most exciting in recent memory. Koepka’s decision to return adds an extra layer of intrigue as he tries to navigate through fierce competitors while showcasing his talents once more.

How to Catch the Action

Golf enthusiasts won’t want to miss a moment of the action. The first round of the Farmers Insurance Open will be available on ESPN and Golf Channel. Here’s a quick look at the broadcasting schedule for Thursday:

ESPN: Coverage starts at 12 p.m. ET
Golf Channel: Coverage from 3-7 p.m. ET
PGA Tour Live via ESPN+: Streaming starts at 12 p.m. ET

Tee Time Breakdown

For those interested in other tee times on the South Course, here’s the line-up:

12:10 p.m. – Chad Ramey, Denny McCarthy, Michael Thorbjornsen
12:21 p.m. – Si Woo Kim, Eric Cole, Max McGreevy
12:32 p.m. – Ludvig Åberg, Brooks Koepka, Max Homa
12:43 p.m. – Xander Schauffele, J.J. Spaun, Harris English
12:54 p.m. – Matt Wallace, Andrew Putnam, Dylan Wu

And for those interested in the North Course, they will also kick off their rounds at 12:10 p.m. with Doug Ghim, Max Greyserman, and Mac Meissner.

Betting Hints and Odds

+5300, presents a fascinating option for those looking to place wagers. For those betting on player props, you might want to consider Koepka finishing in the top 10 at +600 or aiming for a top 5 finish at +910. In the realm of betting, Koepka’s return packs a punch!

A New Season Begins

The 2026 Farmers Insurance Open is not just another tournament; it’s seen as the unofficial start of the PGA Tour season. With such a prestigious field and compelling storylines—including Koepka’s comeback—the excitement is palpable. Ludvig Aberg’s previous strong performances at Torrey Pines have only added to the anticipation as fans look ahead to the thrilling rounds of golf that await.

As we gear up for an exhilarating week, the buzzing atmosphere at Torrey Pines promises to bring forth unforgettable moments. With Koepka back in the mix and plenty of talent on show, you’ll definitely want to stay tuned and see how it all unfolds!

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The PGA Tour Transitions from American Express to Farmers Insurance Open

News Summary

Scottie Scheffler clinched the American Express title, setting the stage for the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines. Defending champion Harris English aims to continue his success, while notable competitors, including Brooks Koepka and Xander Schauffele, make their return, promising an engaging tournament filled with skill and strategy.

The PGA Tour: A Thrilling Transition from the American Express to Farmers Insurance Open

Just when you thought the golf action couldn’t heat up any more, Scottie Scheffler made a splash at the American Express tournament in La Quinta, clinching the title by a convincing four-shot margin. This victory, marking his debut for the 2026 season, has set the stage for an exciting next chapter in the world of professional golf. As the PGA Tour shifts gears, we now look forward to the Farmers Insurance Open held at the famed Torrey Pines.

What to Expect at the Farmers Insurance Open

The Farmers Insurance Open graces the PGA Tour calendar this week, a tradition dating back to 1952. But since 1968, it has called Torrey Pines its home, a spectacular venue that always promises an entertaining challenge for players. One of the storylines to follow this year is the much-anticipated return of Xander Schauffele, the San Diego native making his seasonal appearance at this prestigious event.

Joining him is none other than Brooks Koepka. The former LIV golfer already has fans buzzing with excitement as he returns to the PGA Tour for the first time since 2022. Having made waves during his career, Koepka’s comeback is sure to draw attention and possibly ignite exciting rivalries.

Defending Champion in the Hunt

This year, Harris English will be defending his title after a nail-biting win last year where he triumphed by just one shot. With five PGA Tour victories under his belt, he will be looking to etch his name further into the record books by joining the legendary Tiger Woods, who remains the only golfer to have won consecutive titles at this event since 2008.

English’s history at Torrey Pines is impressive, with multiple top-10 finishes to his name, including a second-place finish in 2015. And don’t forget about runner-up from last year, Sam Stevens, who is also back and ready to make his mark. It promises to be a battle of skill, willpower, and a bit of luck as these players contend for glory.

Format and Challenges Awaiting Players

This year’s tournament features a total purse of $9.6 million, with over $1.7 million going to the winner. The competition spans four rounds, with three at the South Course and one at the North Course, each offering a unique set of challenges tailored to test every component of golfers’ skills.

As the forecast predicts bright, warm weather with minimal chance of rain and light winds of about 5 mph, players can expect ideal conditions for a fierce showdown. Key stats that tend to correlate with success at Torrey Pines include strong performance on approach shots, impressive driving distance, and a sharp short game.

A Glimpse of Notable Competitors

Alongside the well-known contenders like English and Schauffele, keep an eye on notable names such as Justin Rose, Keegan Bradley, and Jason Day. All of them are seasoned competitors who have a knack for rising to the occasion. Their collective experience will bring elevated excitement to the fairways.

Viewing and Following the Action

Golf enthusiasts can catch all the heart-pounding action broadcasted live on ESPN, with coverage kicking off at noon on Thursday and Friday. This event is more than just a tournament; it’s a showcase of remarkable talent, strategy, and the fierce drive to win.

As players battle it out at Torrey Pines, all eyes will be on whether Harris English can pull off an impressive feat to defend his title, as the excitement builds for what should be a thrilling tournament!

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Additional Resources

Iconic Irish Golf Course Transforms into Brittas Bay Club

News Summary

The European Club, a treasured Irish golf course, is set for a major transformation with new ownership. The Conlan family plans to revamp the course into the Brittas Bay Club, enhancing playability and aesthetics while preserving iconic holes. Scheduled to reopen in 2027, the redesign by Kyle Phillips promises a modern layout and new amenities, aiming to attract golfers of all skill levels. With a focus on sustainability, improving visitor experiences, and protecting local wildlife, this revitalization marks an exciting new chapter for golf enthusiasts.

Big Changes Coming to a Classic Course

Golf enthusiasts, you’ll want to take note! An iconic Irish golf course, known for its challenging design and stunning views, is on the cusp of a significant transformation. The European Club has been sold, and with new ownership comes a fresh identity and exciting plans for the future. The new name? Brittas Bay Club!

WHO’S BEHIND THE MAGIC?

The course has now found new stewards in Raymond Conlan and his son, Nicky, who have made headlines with their reported purchase price of approximately €29 million. These ambitious new owners are not just focusing on a new name; they are all set to initiate a comprehensive revamp that is likely to put Brittas Bay Club firmly on the golfing map.

A REDESIGN TO REMEMBER

Originally designed by the talented Pat Ruddy and opened back in 1993, The European Club has always been known for its well-crafted, challenging layout. But that’s about to change! The club is gearing up for a grand reopening in the spring of 2027, under the skilled hands of celebrated architect Kyle Phillips—yes, the same visionary behind renowned courses like Kingsbarns!

Phillips plans to incorporate significant changes into the redesign, which will focus on enhancing both playability and aesthetics. Expect the routing of the course to shift from a par 71 to a more dynamic par 72 layout, adding four par 5s and four par 3s to the mix. Plus, the number of holes will be dialing back from 20 to a traditional 18, bringing the course in line with standard golf traditions.

ALL ABOUT IMPROVEMENTS

As for the visual appeal, be ready to say goodbye to the old wooden railway sleepers that once lined the bunkers. In their place, the course will see grass-revetted bunker faces, creating a fresh and modern look. With spectacular views of the sea ensured from every hole, it promises to be a feast for the eyes as much as it is a test for skill.

The very first hole will invite players to head directly toward the glistening water, while the closing hole will lead right to the beach—a perfect way to unwind after a challenging round.

HOLDING ON TO THE BEST

Among the transformative changes, some fan-favorite holes are being kept in the new layout, notably the previous 8th and 11th holes that have cemented their reputation as highlights of the course. The overall redesign aims to create a balanced environment for golfers of all skill levels—catering to both elite players and those with higher handicaps alike.

UPGRADING FURTHER THAN THE COURSE

But wait, there’s more! The clubhouse and entrance are also set for a modern makeover. Think enhanced visitor experiences, and plans are even in the pipeline for potential on-site accommodations, making it more convenient for golfers to enjoy their stay.

A WINGED SYMBOL FOR A NEW ERA

As part of the rebranding initiative, a new logo featuring a tern, a local migratory bird, will represent the club. And in a nod to environmental stewardship, a portion of green fees will be dedicated to the preservation of this lovely species.

Focusing on Quality and Sustainability

The redevelopment plan doesn’t stop there! The project includes a robust regrassing initiative and the installation of advanced irrigation systems to ensure the course quality remains top-notch. The Conlans and their team are working diligently to create a golfing haven that will be a must-visit destination for enthusiasts across the globe.

INCLUSION FOR ALL PLAYERS

With five sets of tees, the layout will range from just over 5,000 yards to a formidable 7,350 yards. This thoughtful arrangement is aimed at accommodating players of all levels, without compromising the standards expected from competitive events.

Excitement is building as the plans for Brittas Bay Club come to life. With a focus on improving playability, enhancing aesthetics, and being environmentally responsible, this transformation could redefine golfing in the region. Golf lovers, mark your calendars for that stunning 2027 reopening!