Author: sean
America’s Golfing Couple Visits Islay
Islay (pronounced Eye-la) is the Queen of the Hebrides, a little island just off the Atlantic west coast of Scotland, and home to The Machrie. Ferries carry cars or pedestrians in style from the mainland to Port Ellen where The Machrie is a short ride away, driving on the left side. Most roads are single lane with periodic turnouts to pull in, when a vehicle is approaching from the other direction. When the cars pass, drivers signal a thanks. It is a very courteous process and a testament to the tranquility of the population on Islay which is mostly generationally native.
And mostly, the population works in the distilleries, tourism or fishing industries. The Machrie is the best of properties for staying to play the only golf course on Islay. Sheep that formally had to be herded off holes, are now in their pastures but still the first to greet guests to The Machrie. Recent renovations at the luxury hotel have created well-appointed rooms blending modern comfort with classic charm. Contemporary art is showcased throughout.
The dining experience features locally sourced ingredients, showcasing flavors of Islay. Chef Callum has been here for two years and recommends the lamb, pork belly, fresh fish and the best oysters in the world. They are huge, tasty, and so creamy you can cut them with a knife. His fallow deer for venison are shot to order on Islay. That’s fresh.
Sky lights and large window views of the panoramic course and sea define the ambience. Jackson and other bartenders concoct a special drink of the week and are familiar with the nine distilleries on Islay. Michelle who does not consume alcohol, says the tours are fun regardless. “Everyone on tours is lovely, making it interesting for all and you’re spoiled for choice.” Her favorite is Ardbeg for its eclectic decor. We swung by six of the nine on separate occasions for only a wee dram tasting and to appreciate the artisans’ lingo and the views. On Islay, it seems everywhere has a sea view or is in walking distance of one.
The Machrie Golf Course is no exception, rather, it is an exceptional layout. The sea comes into view on many of the holes but not into play. It is a fetching course. That’s to say it’s beautiful, and you’re always at risk of fetching your balls out of the fields of fescue mixed with the country’s prickly purple thistle and feathery ferns, waving in the ever-present wind. It’s over hill and dale and burns (streams), with lots of blind shots, pushing the trolley or carrying your bag.
Care should be taken in the grass, or you might be aghast at an asp-like adder, not necessarily advised by anyone, however a “fourball” of members from Gleneagles who helicoptered over, shared a video of one on the 17th green. We didn’t realize when playing and fortunately only encountered giant jackrabbits darting in and out.
We played through intermittent sun, rain and chilly wind, a couple for all seasons. Course conditioning is superb with crews implementing enhancements. Our prettiest hole award goes to #9. The par 3 captures all the essence of links golf with dune landscape, wispy grass, pot bunkers and the majestic sea waves in front and center view from the tee box.After golf, enjoy high tea with treats, fireside, in the upstairs lounge next to the dining room, overlooking the 18th green. Or enjoy a Guinness with the mesmerizing view. It’s a fun spot to meet and share with other travelers.
Ollie and Marianne from Glasgow honeymooned here and return every couple of years for holiday. They named their daughter Islay because Ollie couldn’t spell Bunnahabhain, their favorite distillery. Bunnahabhain was built in 1880 at the mouth of the river, on the sound of Islay next to Jura where George Orwell wrote 1984. It is known for the most unpeated whiskeys on Islay.
Laphroaig is one of the most iconic distilleries on the island and has medicinal or seaweed notes. It is in Port Ellen along the rugged coast as is Ardbeg and Lagavulin which was established in 1816.
Bowmore is the first recorded distillery dating back to 1779, offering a range of whiskeys with a balance of peat smoke and sherry cask sweetness. The round church in town was built so the devil could not hide in a corner. Caol Ila is the largest distillery, established in 1846 and most famous for the Johnnie Walker line. A century later, Ardnahoe opened in 2019 on the northern shore.
While in the north, we happened on to Port Askaig Hotel, built in the 16th century for the drivers. A ferry transports 1/2 mile to Jura from this port but is under maintenance this year, so Maryann was happy to have clients. Her parents in law bought it in 1958 and when she was young, on holiday with her aunties, she fell in love with the son and decided to stay on. “Married a man, end of story,” she quipped. But her cousin is the world master distiller, John Mc Ewan shown in an old photo with her mom, and they have many stories old, and new to tell.
Besides the golf and distilleries, hikes are popular, especially on the beach. Rubber boots stand in the entrance of The Machrie to borrow for hiking through the grass to the beach with boot jacks for removal upon return. Wild swimming is a thing on Islay, a brief exhilarating dip in the sea but be sure to know where it is safe, given the crazy tides.Ferry tales come true on Islay if you can catch one to stay at The Machrie. A short flight from Glasgow is another option. Either way, Islay delivers a sense of place like no other and that place is peaceful.
This Post was written by Danny and Alice Scott, America’s Golfing Couple. As partners of Golf Inspired, Danny and Alice provide insight into the world of the golf as they travel to experience and share the best the game has to offer. Check out their website here and follow them on instagram
Bill Murray’s Love Affair with Costa Navarino
An exclusive chat with the Hollywood legend who stole the show at the recent Costa Navarino Legends Tour Trophy Pro-Am.
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“We played 27 holes today, and it gets warm out here in the sun. That’s why I’m enjoying the Greek hospitality of an ice-cold wet towel on my head. I look very authentic with this towel on my head, I think.” Bill Murray, the undeniable star of last June’s Costa Navarino Legends Tour Trophy Pro-Am, has indeed a wet towel on his head when we sit for a quick chat at the Navarino Hills Clubhouse, but this only adds to his inimitable coolness. He’s pleased with his game and delighted to be back to Costa Navarino, a destination that has become his favorite in the world in just a few years.
It’s beautiful here, right?
It’s gorgeous, yeah. I mean, it’s a ridiculously beautiful place. And a famous one, too. The Battle of Navarino, where the Greeks earned their independence with some help from the French, the British, and the Russians, happened right here.
Is this your second time at Costa Navarino?
It’s my third time. I’m a bit of a regular now; I keep coming back. It feels great to be here again. It’s about the most gracious hospitality I’ve ever come across. It’s the nicest place I’ve ever stayed. It’s so beautiful. And it’s even become more spectacular since my very first visit.
Is that so? In what ways?
Well, this clubhouse was being built, and now that it’s finished, it’s just wonderful. The design is fantastic. You walk in and a breeze from the ocean hits you at the door, and it feels so darn good. When I came here the first time, I thought it was the greatest place I’d ever been. Since then, you built two more golf courses, which go higher and higher up the hill, up the mountain. And the views get more ridiculous and more breathtaking as you go up. But the place, the greatness of it, is still here. And we’re in a different hotel now. We’re in a Mandarin Oriental hotel, which I think may even be grander than the original place (I stayed in) at Romanos.
And the food! The meal we had last night, chef Bertrand, how does he pronounce his last name? (Valeagas) Anyway, he’s Bert from Bordeaux as far as I’m concerned. But the food last night was the best meal I’ve ever had in any resort, any place. I mean, you go to a spectacular place, you don’t expect the food to be spectacular. You figure the place is enough. And, you know, you can eat a hamburger and fries and be completely happy. But last night’s food was one of the best meals I can recall. He’s really making history, right alongside all the rest of what’s going on.
We saw you a few weeks ago in the stands at the final four of the EuroLeague championship in Berlin. Two Greek teams were participating. Which is more fun for you, playing golf or watching basketball as a spectator?
Well, playing golf is far more complicated and far more enriching and challenging. Watching basketball is just watching basketball. You know, it’s fun, and you can get excited for your team. And watching the Greek teams is not like anything any Americans ever have. You know, it’s not like anything I’ve ever seen because they holler and scream at each other and sing lots and lots of songs that are hilariously insulting! And I’m thinking, okay, any minute now they’re going to just start punching each other. But they don’t. They come face to face and sing their hearts out about how much they dislike each other. It’s tough, it’s very funny, and it’s fun. It’s part of the show, for sure.
The last time you came, we interviewed you at the Westin Resort, and you joked about finding a spot to hide and happily staying there until someone found you. Now that the resort has so many more spots to hide, where would you go?
Well, I probably shouldn’t say this because I don’t think most people are really going to come looking for me. But the people that do, if they’ve come this far, they’re probably okay anyway. So, there is a place. You’ve got to walk up the hill until you can hear the donkey. When you can hear the donkey, you’re very close to my hiding place.
Do you consider yourself a remake kind of guy?
Well, I’ve done a couple of movies twice. I did two Zombielands. I did a couple of Ghostbusters. I did a couple of Garfield’s, for heaven’s sake. But the first cut is the deepest. That’s the song that Cat Stevens wrote. And Rod Stewart does a good job with it, too. The first cut is the deepest. And it’s hard to recreate the original excitement and creativity. Although I guess, since we’re talking about this place, you could say that the sequels have improved upon the original. It’s even more dazzling than it was the first time, when I thought it was the most dazzling place I’d ever been. Can you imagine that?
It’s been 44 years since the release of the legendary golf movie Caddyshack. What would a remake of Caddyshack here at Costa Navarino, in Messinia, be like?
Well, okay, first of all, I have to think about the groundskeeper. The groundskeepers here are very well-behaved. And they work like scientists. It’s so beautiful. I mean, they replanted thousands of olive trees. They didn’t cut them down; they moved, replanted, and reoriented them to the sun. It’s extraordinary the lengths that people went to in order to maintain the native flora and the beauty of the place. And the productivity of all these olive trees. I mean, olive trees that are 1200 years old. With my luck, I’d kill it. You know, I’d accidentally step on it, break it, or turn on a chainsaw by mistake. Do something wrong. But these things are amazing; it’s amazing to see them and to know that it’s a 2000-year-old tree. And that someone moved it from there to there, and it’s still producing olives. It’s pretty impressive to see nature just flowing like that. Nature and the culture just continuing to flow. It’s beautiful.
Bill, thank you very much for your time.
You’re welcome.
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Trump Turnberry Highlights Scotland Golf Getaway
This is part two of Leigh’s journey to Scotland and experience at Golf Inspired’s 2024 Ayrshire Links Invitational Presented by SQAIRZ – Click here to read part one
Trump Turnberry Is a World of Its Own
On Sunday morning, we said goodbye to St. Andrews after our short but memorable respite when the dependable GCT driver returned us to EDI, where we easily met Sean Winton, his team, and the other invitees who were joining us in “the celebration of the game.”
Sean, who knew the shortcomings of reclaiming missing luggage, accompanied me to Swissport baggage and ran interference for me. The golf bag had been found but could not be recovered until Monday. Therefore, Sean made sure it would be delivered to Trump Turnberry ASAP. Until then, Sean assured me the rental clubs at the resort would be fine—he was right—and that Aer Lingus would reimburse me if I carefully filled out their website Missing Baggage form—he was right again.
Trump Turnberry is a 90-minute drive west from EDI and sits majestically on the coast with a superb view of the Isle of Arran, Ailsa Craig, and the Irish Sea. A five-star resort and a four-time Open host, Trump Turnberry won the Scottish Hotel of the Year in 2018. That award presaged the 2024 reception and experience we had in the Turnberry world of luxury, dining options, service, golf, and amenities. As Sean had written, Turnberry is one of “the world’s most iconic destinations.”
The accommodations for the 28 of us under Sean’s tutelage were away from main hotel in what are called The Lodges. The spacious and well-appointed rooms were most comfortable and had modern bathrooms with walk-in showers and a tub. A heated towel rack above the tub came in handy for drying out rain gear and wet clothes when Nature turned ugly on us. Sean chose The Lodges for us because each one had an expansive social/large screen TV/kitchen area on the second floor, perfect for group get togethers. Sean kept the fridge stocked with soft drinks and beer and snacks.
Our Introduction to the Five-Star Resort
That Sunday afternoon we did have a break-the-ice group get together at The Wee Links, the 18-hole pitch and putt course in front of the hotel. Sean introduced us to Paul Cormack, caddie for Lydia Ko and Brand Ambassador for Golf Inspired. Paul, who had just come from the Women’s Scottish Open at nearby Dundonald Links where Lydia finished 9th, showed us the flag he had taken from the 18th hole at Le Golf National in France where Lydia won the Gold Medal and a spot in the LPGA Hall of Fame. He regaled us with stories about her incredible play and her indomitable spirit. Little did he know that a week later she would birdie the 72nd hole to win the Women’s Open, but he did say she was playing so well and wanted to win that major so badly.
We then played The Wee Links in an enthusiastic manner, applauded the winner who shot a 5-under 49, and recognized Vicky for her ace on the 18th hole. Dinner was in the Duel in the Sun restaurant in the clubhouse/pro shop building, overlooking the Ailsa and King Robert the Bruce courses. Named after the unusually beautiful day and the legendary mano-a-mano Open final round between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus (aka Duel in the Sun) in 1977, where Watson won by a shot, the restaurant sports memorabilia from that contest and offers delicious local cuisine.
On Monday morning and each morning thereafter, we all had a full Scottish breakfast in the 1906 Room, named after the year the resort opened, and we could order from the specialty menu and/or take advantage of the lavish buffet. Most of us chose the “and.” None of us went hungry. FYI, dinner begins in the 1906 Room at, naturally, 19:06.
Round One on King Robert the Bruce
The golf then began in earnest on King Robert the Bruce with optional daily Skins Game and four-round Stableford competition. The pro shop provided me with TaylorMade woods and irons that worked admirably for rentals. The facilities include a driving range, putting green, short game practice area, and state-of-the-game Golf Academy.
The historical King Robert led Scotland to independence from England in 1314, and the famous Turnberry Lighthouse at the turn on the Ailsa course stands among the ruins of his birthplace (1274) and his medieval castle.
The King Robert course is the new name for the old, former course Kintyre. Martin Ebert, who upgraded Ailsa in 2016 to rave reviews, took Kintyre and reworked the basically parkland course into a much more playable gorse and heather-lined layout with several spectacular new coastal holes that take maximum visual advantage of Turnberry’s famous landmarks, Ailsa Craig and the lighthouse. Ebert extended the back tees to 7,203 yards with three other tees at 6,594, 6,299 and 5,767. The greens are huge, fast, undulating, and frustrating. King Robert allows golfers to take buggies if they so desire, but a forecaddie is required.
The Gorman-MacKay foursome found the course to be a good test of ball placement and pitching/chipping skills. The views from the newly designed holes were exceptional. Unlike the Watson-Nicklaus duel in the sun, we began our duel with the rain early, received a period of tranquility, and then played 18 in a downpour. We were pleased we had our heated towel racks.
Royal Troon and Western Gailes
Tuesday was very special – the Royal Troon day. The forty-minute drive took us by both Alloway, the domicile of national poet Robert Burns, and Dundonald Links, the venue of the Women’s Scottish Open won by Lauren Coughlin. We had lunch in the Troon clubhouse and had time to explore its plethora of history. Everyone who watched Xander Schauffele post an impressive 9-under par and heroic two-stroke triumph at The Open knows that Troon is one of the best links courses in Scotland and one of the best layouts in the world. No question about it.
Our foursome had knowledgeable caddies, who greatly increased our appreciation of the intricacies of Royal Troon. For 16 holes, we played our own version of The Open. Then our duel began again on the 17th tee in a torrent, and we finished 18 without a dry spot on our bodies. Hot showers cleansed our disappointment, and cold lagers refreshed our equanimity.
Wednesday brought us to Western Gailes and a discernible treat. Although the wind was howling and the duel look imminent, we couldn’t wait to have this links course test our mettle. The reputation of Western Gailes as one of the game’s finest and more exacting courses is well deserved. The first five holes were downwind and presented the usual rolling terrain, elevated tees and greens, “proper” Scottish bunkers, thick fescue and purple heather.
The next 10 holes paralleled the beach and ocean, and the wind was in our face. Tommy and I were playing the second set of tees at 6,106-yards, and Janet and Vicky were playing at 5,441, but we might as well have been playing the tips at 7,014. The par-3 13th, a par 3, turned us away from the wind, and the 14th started us downwind again to the clubhouse. Unfortunately, the rain followed us in, but Western Gailes remains unblemished in my pantheon of links jewels. We had a hot Scottish lunch in the grill room and used “the drying room” for our soaked outerwear.
All Hail Ailsa!
Thursday was a hallelujah day! First, my golf clubs arrived in time for me to play Ailsa. Second, we almost did have a “duel in the sun,” as we rejoiced on a perfect day to play golf. Ailsa, after Ebert’s ministrations, is the number one golf course in GB&I and a must play.
My caddie Jack was an excellent advice giver and a better raconteur about the history and personalities who played at Ailsa. We had a good, long walk together as we traversed the layout.
The pros play the tips at 7,501 yards, but Tommy and I played at 6,110, although some in our group played the 6,543 tees. Janet and Vicky played at 5,412. The course was in pristine condition, and Jack had no trouble reading the greens for me. However, I might have had a little trouble in following his directions.
Much of our time was spent using our cells to take pictures. The Gorman-MacKay foursome reveled in the Ailsa quest and realized how fortunate we were to have played such a unique course.
Farewell but Still Golf Inspired
Sean treated us all to a Farewell Dinner at Wildings Restaurant in the next town of Maidens, where Sean, born in Glasgow, spent his youth. His bio states, “At 15, he immigrated with his family to New Hampshire, igniting a lifelong passion for travel exploration and entrepreneurship.”
We were serenaded by a bagpiper and an accordion player during Happy Hour, and we dined on the fresh local fare that the Scottish love—and now we do, too. We said farewell to our fellow “like-minded individuals seeking memorable experiences” and agreed that the week would be something we would never forget.
Friday morning the four of us used the transfer from Trump Turnberry to EDI, where we boarded a shuttle to the Dakota Hotel in Queensferry.
Vicky and I the toured the quaint harbor town and visited, on purpose, the Hawes Inn on the waterfront where Robert Louis Stevenson penned his novel “Kidnapped.” Janet and Tom spent the day in Edinburgh. On Saturday, the shuttle returned us to EDI; our Scottish adventure had concluded.
Most importantly, as Sean had promised, Golf Inspired had removed all the variables of international travel into certainties. And we were certain we had just finished an inspired golf vacation.
To learn at what other locations Golf Inspired will host future golf trips and for more information, visit their website.
For a more detailed info about Trump Turnberry, click here
An Extraordinary Scottish Golf Adventure
By Leigh MacKay
Playing classic links on the auld sod of GB&I is an experience to savor, similar to other indigenous classics like London dry gin, single-malt scotch, Irish whiskey, and stout. A connoisseur of these links and libations will certainly get his fill and satisfy his fancy on whatever sod he chooses, be it England, Northern Ireland, the Republic, Scotland, or Wales. The burning questions, therefore, are where to go, what courses to play, and who will organize the logistics.
The 2024 Ayrshire Links Invitational
Tommy Gorman, publisher of Pro Golf Weekly and my editor, met Sean at January’s PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. Tommy was impressed by both Sean’s vast knowledge of the golf travel industry based on his 28 years of experience and his outgoing, amiable demeanor. Tommy was also smitten by Sean’s mid-August arrangements for Scotland.
Tommy emailed me the proposal entitled “Sqairz Presents The 2024 Ayrshire Links Invitational” to see if Vicky and I wanted to join Janet and him for the Golf Inspired week “to be hosted on Scotland’s picturesque Ayrshire coast at the incomparable Trump Turnberry Resort.”
Vicky and I read the itinerary carefully and were as taken with it as Tommy was. We also appreciated that Golf Inspired would assist us with pre- and/or post-tour extensions if we so desired.
Celebration of the Game of Golf
We especially liked Sean’s ethos: “Golf Inspired is about the celebration of the game of golf; good living shared by like-minded individuals seeking memorable experiences. Our team specializes in creating relaxed and fun-filled environments in some of the world’s most iconic destinations. Ayrshire is one of those iconic destinations.”
When Tommy and I covered the LIV Golf Miami championship at Trump Doral in early April, the four of us discussed what our plans and hopes for the trip should be, including both a pre-tour weekend in St. Andrews with a round of golf at nearby Panmure Golf Club and a post-tour extra day near Edinburgh Airport (EDI) before flying home.
Soon thereafter, Sean arranged a Skype video conference, where the five of us hammered out exactly what we could expect and how we could visit St. Andrews on our own and stay an extra day.
Sean assured us that Golf Inspired would transform the many disconcerting variables of international travel and touring into easy-to-handle certainties. And he was absolutely right!
Etched in Stone and in the Air
By the middle of July, our plans were etched in stone. We had paid $9990 per couple for the Ayrshire Links Invitational and an extra $1200 per couple for our St. Andrews weekend and extra day in Queensferry near EDI.
We would spend five nights at Trump Turnberry, play four rounds of golf, get both RT transfers from EDI and RT golf transfers to Troon and Western Gailes, have welcome and farewell restaurant dinners plus lunches each day at the golf club we were playing, enjoy a full Scottish breakfast each morning in the hotel, and receive a Welcome Gift Bag and a pair of Sqairz Links Golf Shoes of our choice.
On Thursday evening, August 14, we left Boston’s Logan Airport, Tommy and Janet flying Delta and Vicky and I on Aer Lingus, arriving at EDI early Friday morning. We had been in touch with Sean through “Whats App,” and he would use this app to communicate with us throughout the trip. Sean told us he had a Golf City Taxis driver and a van waiting to take us to St. Andrews, but we all had to wait because Aer Lingus had misplaced my golf bag. I filed the claim with Swissport baggage at EDI, and the four of us began our trip at last.
A Weekend at St. Andrews
Golf City Taxis deposited us at the digs Sean had found for us at the University of St. Andrews’ Agnes Blackadder Hall, a modern dormitory with two double beds in a large room with private bathroom and a daily buffet breakfast. The University is located a driver and five iron from the 17th green of the Old Course and an easy walk to downtown St. Andrews and the Market Street shopping area.
We spent Friday afternoon exploring the “Home of Golf” as the Old Course was undergoing finishing installation touches for the next week’s AIG Women’s Open. We had our pictures taken on Swilcan Bridge after a group had teed off the 18th hole, strolled up The Links road past Rusacks Hotel and the 18th green, and then took a left to stand in front of the R&A clubhouse to watch golfers tee off on one and putt out on 18.
As green with envy as the layout in front of us, we repaired to nearby Pilmour Links road and the well-known 19th Hole at Dunvegan’s Hotel for some liquid solace and dinner. With our spirits renewed, we then spent some more of the long day’s sunlight and some more of our British pounds as we perused the Scottish shops on Market Street. None of us had any difficulty falling asleep that night.
The next morning Agnes Blackadder made us a delicious breakfast in the dorm’s cafeteria. Right on time, Golf City Taxis, home office in the golf city of St. Andrews, of course, picked us up and drove us the 35 minutes to Panmure Golf Club in Barry, just 1.5 miles from frequent Open site Carnoustie. A delightful classic Scottish course that opened in 1845, Panmure provided the four of us with a grand time, which I recently wrote up for Pro Golf Weekly.
Read about Turnberry, Royal Troon, and the rest of the Ayrshire Links Invitational here.
America’s Golfing Couple on Turnberry
Trump Turnberry Scotland is Golden
Trump Turnberry Scotland is one of the most impressive resorts we have ever experienced. The service motto here is “Never settle,” and every employee exudes an earnest, happy desire to make guests feel great and enjoy their vacations. We could settle into our ocean view suite forever.
Located on the west coast of Scotland in South Ayrshire, 24 miles from Royal Troon where the Open recently played, the luxury resort overlooks the Irish Sea, surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including rolling dunes, rugged cliffs, and expansive beaches with the iconic Turnberry Lighthouse, built in 1873.
Historically the resort has been a notable site in Scottish golf since the original course designed by Willie Park opened in 1902. It gained international acclaim through the years and hosted several Open Championships including famous tournaments in 1977 and 1986, a century after the lighthouse was erected.
Trump Turnberry is inspiring from the moment you see the grand hotel perched on the hill overlooking the dramatic panorama of Firth Clyde with the golf, Ailsa Craig, Isle of Arran and the lighthouse in the distance. Guests are greeted by kilted attendees whisking luggage away to the luxury accommodations in the hotel or in the lodges. Opulent chandeliers light the way as walls are lined with historic photos.
The 1906 Restaurant and the Grand Tea Lounge and Bar offer excellent cuisine from breakfast to dinner with tall and wide window views of the breathtaking scenery. Every morsel and service piece delivers a lavish, fine dining moment.
Golf is stunning and challenging on two championship courses, Ailsa and King Robert the Bruce, ranked among the world’s best. The strategic designs include beautiful coastal views, deep bunkering and verdant fairways.
David, the starter on Ailsa gifts players with a tartan pouch with Ailsa embroidered on one side and King Robert the Bruce on the other. He is gifted with storytelling and has much history serving on royal protection teams. When asked who impressed him the most, he noted Nelson Mandela as a great person with an aura and the Late Queen Elizabeth, a lovely lady.
He gave us “a gentle and diplomatic reminder – it is a championship course. You might want to sacrifice distance for accuracy. But most of all, make memories.” It was a gorgeous day with barely a breeze, unusual for Scotland and the round was memorable indeed, passing by the Thomas Stevenson lighthouse on the beach at the turn. Thomas was the father of Robert Louis Stevenson, author of Treasure Island. Since it now serves as “the best halfway house in the world,” (Trumpian style), David suggested giving it 20 minutes and perhaps have a little glass of something.
The yardage book within the pouch is very comprehensive with a welcome note from Eric Trump, pictures and layouts of each hole with Scottish names, translations, historic facts and descriptions. It’s a keepsake.
Ailsa Craig, a ginormous rock in the Firth of Clyde is visible from almost every hole and the lighthouse is from many, particularly the iconic 10th and 11th. A monument by the 12th green is dedicated to servicemen from Scotland as well as Australia and the U.S. It’s stirring when the Scots appreciate the aid of Americans in their war time of need, a tad bit like Normandy.
The finishing hole was renamed Duel in the Sun in honor of the 1977 Open Championship when Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus battled it out, shot for shot over four days with Watson winning the claret jug. The restaurant upstairs in the clubhouse is named the same with a view of the 18th hole and sea. Watson had visited a few days before us as he occasionally does.
King Robert the Bruce Course was first named Arran, then Kintyre with Starwood ownership and when Trump bought in, it became King Robert. As the story was told by David, in1240 Lady Marjorie, Countess of Carrick struggled to find herself a husband, so she threw a party and fell in love with Robert de Brus and gave birth to Robert, King of Scots, whose castle remains are still seen on the coast by the lighthouse. Every hill and cove are named as a tribute to a Scot in history, noted in the exemplary yardage book.
The Scottish flag was again still with nary a breeze and Steven, the starter said that only happens maybe three times a year. We lucked out with two of them. He advised that if you get bunkered, remember to take a full swing and look two inches in front of the ball to get out of the pot.
Collin in the pro shop noted that there are three types of greens on King Robert from stages of designing and renovations. The fairways were widened, and sea views improved to follow the guiding lighthouse.
The clubhouse is filled with logoed merchandise, both with Trump Turnberry Scotland and simply Turnberry Scotland to please the traditionalists. Century old portraits of the hotel and golfers adorn every wall. Women played in long dresses and wide brim hats back in the day and men in their knickers and flat caps.
The resort has multiple practice areas and a third short course to hone all aspects of the game. More great Ayrshire golf may be booked at Royal Troon, Western Gailes, Prestwick, and Dundonald Links.
After golf it is great to hit the world class spa for a soak in the hot tub, pool, sauna and steam room. Trump Turnberry offers much more on their 800 sprawling acres. Walking paths lead to the beach and lighthouse. Adventures include kite surfing, air rifles, clay shooting, archery, falconry, paddleboarding, kayaking, off-road driving, or electric biking and horse riding, all within a walk from the hotel.
When the equestrian center was acquired by Trump in 2021, Caroline took over the management. She had been boarding her own horse there and was retired but when offered the position, her husband Scott Anderson, hotel manager said, “You spend all your time there anyway. You might as well be paid for it.”
We met Odin and Tillie, the 17 and 19 hands tall Percherons who for 110 pounds will take guests to the beach. They are only a part of the Turnberry herd cared for by “a bunch of lovely grooms.” We loved Caroline’s and other Scots’ singsong lilt. Many greet with a casual “hiya.”
Some letters are skipped, and some vowels sound different like “I did” might be pronounced “I dayed”. We were asked, “Did you see the paper last night?” “You mean the Digital Press, no, what did we miss?” It was the piper they asked about not paper. The piper, not the paper is not to be missed outside the hotel at 6:30pm, conveniently in front of the bar and astoundingly in front of the spectacular view. You can see kilted bagpipers throughout Scotland but nowhere else with this scene.
Staff will assist with itineraries and arrangements on or off the resort for castle tours and the like. In the same town of Maidens, for which Ailsa’s hole number 11 is named, our friend Sean Winton was born. His home was over the fence of one of the King Robert holes, which he hopped occasionally to practice his young game. He now runs Distinct Travel and Golf Inspired and has a trip this month which you might still squeeze into, staying at Trump Turnberry, playing there and other area courses and tromping through his childhood playground. What better way to go?
Any way you go, Trump Turnberry Scotland is golden and checks every box. It is the best of the best. Book via our Travel Concierge and Receive Exclusive Status Benefits
THE MAKING OF A PERFECT “BUCKET LIST” GOLF VACATION
Forget Trying to Book your Dream Golf Vacation Alone
More and more golf travelers are finding few choices at golf’s most storied destinations for a golf vacation. In the past, booking online direct may have worked for the most part, but today it’s an entirely different game best left to the pros.
As golfers, we yearn to find new places to play, and new horizons in the game to discover. Once hooked on golf, we all watch the game played by professionals at some of the most incredible destinations worldwide.
Golf travel has become one of the largest economic sectors in the golf industry across the globe. While we all have our own “bucket list” of places to play in the U.S. and abroad, that list in many ways is pretty much the same for us all.
Having said that, the one thing that the coronavirus left us all with after years of being cooped up, is a new sense of urgency to finally fulfill the destinations on that list.
The very words “golf bucket list” have brought millions of golfers to the same reality: If not now, when?
This has created a major issue with many of the top golf travel destinations that none of us ever expected to see. Fully booked hotel accommodations, limited access to tee times, and having to settle for second or even third choices on dates, prime seasons, and preferred courses.
Travelers planning a golfing vacation to prestigious courses in Ireland, Scotland and other UK destinations have seen this trend now for over a year. The same is true at top U.S. destinations, like Pebble Beach, Kohler, Bandon Dunes, Big Cedar, Pinehurst, and many others as well.
The reality is that open reservations during prime times with preferred tee times are a hot commodity. For some playing pre-dusk tee times is fine, but for most, the full experience with a great itinerary is a must.
Some of the UK’s top venues are selling out, not just this year, but well into 2024, due in part to growing confidence in international travel among wealthy Americans.
The days of booking your own “bucket list” golf travel vacations today are best left to the seasoned professionals, who have built their business models on having the access to the top golf travel destinations in the world.
They are well connected, deeply vested, and have years of experience at successfully building great golf travel memories for their clients. Many have garnished top hotel bookings in prime periods and reserved already the very best in tee times at many of the greatest venues, including the Old Course, New Course, Jubilee Course in St Andrews and have access to many of the greatest British Open venues as well.
It is not only their investment in inventory that keeps their golf travel business vital, but more importantly, it’s their long-standing personal relationships with many of
the hotels and courses in prime golf travel locations, who they have worked with in good times and bad, that are key today to getting that perfect golf vacation.
In most cases you will find better value, more secured itineraries and most importantly, concierge service for your dream golf experience
Planning Far Enough in Advance
The first step to any magnificent golf journey may start with the internet for research on where to go.
The next step and the most important with trips like this, is talk to a golf travel professional. Few travel professionals have the extensive golf knowledge of golf tour operators, who will most times already know all the answers you need.
Depending on your golfing destination, you will most likely need to book at least 8 months to 16 months in advance, which will ensure that you get to play on the courses you want to at the time of year you plan to go.
Also, booking far in advance allows you to get better rates, find better airfare, accommodations, and most important prime course tee times.
Note: Many well-connected golf tour operators have pre-planned group excursions to Ireland, Scotland, and top UK destinations multiple times yearly. They may have openings in these trips or cancellations you could take advantage of as well.
The best way for overseas travelers to get a spot on the Old Course is via an authorized provider golf travel professional. Sean Winton at Golf Inspired for decades has provided custom packaged golf vacations worldwide.
Reach out to Sean for any questions on any of the top destinations in golf: [email protected]
History made by Legends at Costa Navarino
The Legends Tour will visit Greece for the first time in 23 years from 7-9 June. The Costa Navarino Legends Tour Trophy will take place at the stunning Costa Navarino destination.
The European Tour Group is providing financial backing, promotion, and organization for the first Legends Tour event of the 2024 season, set to take place in continental Europe.
Costa Navarino, situated in Messinia in the southwest Peloponnese of Greece, is a member of the European Tour Destinations network. Known for its sustainable practices, this Mediterranean destination offers a premier golfing experience with its four signature 18-hole courses.
The Legends Tour event will be held on two of Costa Navarino’s courses: The Bay Course will host the first round on Friday, June 7, followed by the International Olympic Academy Golf Course for the second and third rounds on Saturday, June 8, and Sunday, June 9.
Ben Cowen, Chief Tournament and Operations Officer of the European Tour Group, expressed enthusiasm about supporting the new tournament in Greece. He emphasized the importance of providing additional playing and earning opportunities for Legends Tour members and highlighted the collaboration with Ryan Howsam and the Legends Tour team, which includes record prize funds for 2024. Cowen also noted the success of the season’s launch in Barbados and wished members well in the upcoming US Senior PGA Championship before the event in Greece, which will showcase the beautiful Costa Navarino to a global audience.
Phil Harrison, CEO of Legends Tour, praised Costa Navarino as an exceptional destination. He acknowledged the support from the European Tour Group and highlighted the challenging yet picturesque golf courses. Harrison also mentioned that many members are already familiar with Costa Navarino, while new visitors can expect a unique experience both on and off the golf courses.
Harrison added that bringing the Legends Tour to Greece expands the tour’s global reach across Europe and beyond. He expressed excitement about the new addition to the calendar and thanked the European Tour Group for their financial and organizational support.
David Ashington, General Manager at Costa Navarino Golf, expressed pride in Costa Navarino becoming the first venue in Greece to host a major professional golf tournament in 23 years. He highlighted the destination’s four signature golf courses, five-star hotels, extensive sports and lifestyle facilities, and authentic year-round experiences. Ashington looked forward to showcasing Costa Navarino to players, their families, tournament guests, and a global audience.
Guests at Costa Navarino can choose from several five-star resorts, including The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, W Costa Navarino, Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino, and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino.
The Field
Already entered into the event are three Major Champions as well as eight of the top ten from last season’s Legends Tour Order of Merit. Look to see guys like Michael Campbell, Scott Hend, Mikael Lundberg, and Roger Chapman compete this weekend.
The Bay Course
Open since October 2011, the 18-hole, 71 par seaside Bay Course at Navarino Bay, designed by Robert Trent Jones II, provides both a fun experience and a challenging test for golfers of all levels. Just a few minutes from Navarino Dunes, at the Navarino Bay development, the Bay Course offers an alternative set of challenges and choices in a quite different setting.
With the majority of tees offering sublime sea views and two holes playing along the historic Bay of Navarino, the course plays at 6139 yards from the back tees and meanders through three distinct natural landscapes. The Seaside, Canyon, and Grove holes provide striking contrasts that create a dramatic and memorable golf round.
The International Olympic Academy Golf Course
The International Olympic Academy Golf Course, is one of two 18-hole par-72 golf courses designed for Costa Navarino by the world-famous golfer and two-time Masters champion José María Olazábal. It is located at Navarino Hills, the 125-hectare golf haven named the “World’s Best New Golf Development” at the 2020 World Golf Awards and one of the most anticipated new projects worldwide in the golfing community.
In these rolling green hills, the 6366-meter International Olympic Academy Golf Course course overlooks the historic Navarino Bay and the Ionian Sea. Olazábal describes the spectacular sea view as “breathtaking” and almost impossible to keep your eyes off. Speaking this summer at a virtual event announcing the project, he said: “It is a great honor to have designed the first International Olympic Academy Golf Course at Navarino Hills. The development of the game is very close to my heart, and I am proud that future generations of golfers will have the opportunity to be educated in the Olympic values at this wonderful new facility.”
The Costa Navarino Legends Tour Trophy takes place from June 7-9, 2024.
Discover more about the incredible destination of Costa Navarino here
America’s Golfing Couple On Golf Inspired
Freelance multimedia journalists Danny & Alice, known as America’s Golfing Couple, travel the world promoting destinations, tournaments, and products.
Golf Inspired – The World’s Most Connected Travel Community Orange Tree Golf Club was the brilliant venue for the Golf Inspired First Annual Golf Outing. Founder Sean Winton welcomed partners and guests along with David Damesworth, Director of Golf. David shared that there is always a waiting
list for membership at the private Orange Tree Golf Club and it is no wonder given its strategic location in Orlando with a challenging, fun layout and exceptional food and service.
We had a blast playing with Jon Whittemore, owner of 15 U.S. golf courses and John Brown, a successful entrepreneur who now serves as the Director of Membership for Golf Inspired. Playing a round of golf is the best way to get to know people and they are our kind of people.
Traveling to play golf affords the chance to meet new friends and bond with old ones while experiencing new adventures, cuisine and learning about history, and culture. It is an opportunity to live briefly within the pages of National Geographic Magazine. Golf Inspired is the world’s most connected travel network to facilitate the pleasures of golf travel.
John explained the Golf Inspired business model and company philosophy. Golf Inspired was born under the umbrella of Distincte Travel Group, a lifestyle travel company owned by Sean Winton who has been a travel industry expert since 1996. Golf Inspired was created to enhance and leverage marketing partnerships with key destinations for their Ambassadors of the Game program. Ambassadors would bring or arrange groups to these special places. Trip details such as itineraries and collateral are undertaken by Golf Inspired personnel to include the best of not only golf, but culture and adventures to authentically experience the true destination.
Golf Inspired has no waiting list for membership. Potential ambassadors will be recruited and vetted with the right candidates having a proven track record of influence and production within their social reach or personal network of golfers that love to travel in style to the best ports of call. Perhaps they already arrange group trips or have always wanted to but didn’t have the proper connections or desire to fret the many details of coordinating transportation, tee times, lodging, etc. It takes a lot to put a single trip together, let alone a group trip. We know this very well, having been on hundreds of trips in our sixteen years of golf travel writing.
Golf Inspired’s ethos is about the celebration of the game; good living shared by likeminded individuals seeking memorable experiences. Through a series of signature events, the Golf Inspired team specializes in creating relaxed and fun-filled environments in some of the most iconic golf destinations.
The destination portfolio will consist of some 60 premier, bucket list spots around the globe. Some current destination partners to highlight are:
Costa Navarino, Greece, ranked #1 Golf Resort in Continental Europe, delivers authentic Greek culture while respecting the nature with beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and gorgeous golf.
Fancourt Links, S. Africa, in the heart of the Garden Route has three spectacular, scenic courses designed by Gary Player’s team. Combined with safaris, a trip to S. Africa can be life changing.
Apes Hill, Barbados is the only elevated golf resort in the Caribbean offering panoramic sea views amid lush landscaping and sunbathing beaches.
Solmar Links, Los Cabos delivers stunning Pacific Ocean vistas on every hole of Greg Norman’s design with whales breaching in season.
West Cliffs, Portugal is a five-star resort in the Silver Coast with a dramatic seaside routing.
The Machrie, Scotland is on the beautiful isle of Islay, Argyll and offers a tranquil setting nestled in the dunes of a pristine seven-mile beach.
Performing Ambassadors of the Game will enjoy discounted travel benefits with an up-front subscription and annual fee. One benefit is taking discovery trips with their spouses to experience the ideal itinerary. Special relationships between Ambassadors and Golf Inspired would be evaluated annually to ensure a
mutually beneficial equation of revenue and quality of life for all.
For a taste of Experiences by Distincte and Golf Inspired, Sean Winton is hosting the 2024 Ayrshire Links Invitational presented by SQAIRZ, the official “Links Golf Shoe.” This is the area of Scotland where Sean grew up, so it is near and dear to his heart. Starting on August 18 th , 2024, through August 23rd rd at the Trump Turnberry Resort on Scotland’s picturesque Ayrshire coast, it is open to 40 golfers and non-golfers. Golfers will start off with Turnberry’s King Robert the Bruce followed by Royal Troon (host to this summer’s 152nd OPEN Championship) and Western Gailes, before finishing off with arguably one of the best links golf courses in the world – the Ailsa Course at Turnberry.
Non-golfers will have an array of options to explore. Some local highlights are the 17th century Culzean Castle and the home of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national bard. On property, Turnberry has a wonderful spa, an equestrian center, falconry, clay pigeon shooting and so much more. There is literally something for everyone to do! Throughout the week, the very best of what Ayrshire has to offer in scenery, culture and most important of all, it’s culinary delights will be showcased by Golf Inspired Scotland Team! The price is a reasonable $4,995/golfer sharing and $3215/non-golfer.
The full itinerary can be found HERE
If you’d like to speak directly to host Sean Winton, feel free to email or call him [email protected] / M: 813 300 2466 For information on Ambassador of the Game Program for Golf Inspired, contact John Brown – [email protected] / M: 941 448 4733
WOMEN’S SCOTTISH OPEN RETURNS THIS SUMMER
This summer, the Women’s Scottish Open will once again return to the renowned Dundonald Links in Ayrshire for its third consecutive year, August 15-18, 2024.
IRVINE, SCOTLAND, 1ST MAY, 2024
Since its co-sanctioning in 2017, this event has been a significant stop on both the LPGA and Ladies European Tours. It consistently boasts one of the strongest fields outside of the majors with last year’s edition featuring seven of the world’s top 10 players. The event returned to Dundonald Links in 2022 following a £25 million makeover from owners Darwin Escapes to transform the club into one of the UK’s finest golf resorts. It was also previously held there in 2015, 2016 and 2017.
Ricki Lasky, Chief Tour Business and Operations Officer for the LPGA added: “We are excited to return to Dundonald Links for yet another incredible edition of the Women’s Scottish Open this summer. The course will provide a great challenge and showcase some the amazing golf our world-class athletes are known for, especially as they prepare for the final major of the year, the AIG Women’s Open played on the historic links at St. Andrews the following week.”
The Scottish Government and VisitScotland have been long standing supporters of women’s golf, and in 2020 committed investment of up to £6m to The Women’s Scottish Open through to 2025. With this partnership, the event has grown in stature, both in strength of field and in terms of best operational practices, becoming the first GEO Certified®️ Tournament on the Ladies European Tour, recognising the tournament’s leadership as a more sustainable golf event.
Paul Bush OBE, Director of Events with VisitScotland said: “Dundonald Links has established itself as an exceptional host for the Women’s Scottish Open, and the Scottish Government and VisitScotland are delighted the event is returning for a third consecutive year. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Ayrshire coastline, it provides the perfect stage for showcasing the world’s best female players. It’s a busy summer of international golf in Scotland, with five professional events taking place throughout July and August, making it an exciting time for the region.”
Lindsey Esse, Managing Director of Darwin Escapes said: “Hosting the Women’s Scottish Open is one of the highlights of our year. We love watching the top players battle it out on our links course, and it’s a privilege to be able to showcase our venue and celebrate the remarkable talent in women’s golf.”
World No.3 Celine Boutier will defend her title at this year’s edition after securing a commanding three-shot lead to claim victory at last year’s event. Her win marked back-to-back triumphs, following her first major title at the Amundi Evian Championship the preceding week.
“It’s going to be an exciting week at Dundonald this year, especially returning as the defending champion. I have always loved playing this event and securing second place in 2022 before clinching”
Barbados, The Return of The Legends
2009 was the last time The Legends Tour was on the Caribbean Island. Today, the wait is over for the return to Barbados. On May 3rd, the award-winning venue, Apes Hill, will be host to the Barbados Legends hosted by Ian Woosnam.
If you’re unfamiliar with Apes Hill, it’s truly a gem of the Caribbean, and they’re not kidding around when they say the golfs on a ‘Higher-Level.’
Opened in 2009, Apes Hill is proudly the newest course in the Caribbean. ‘Higher-level’ golf is used to describe the quality of the championship course but also how the course is situated 1,000 feet above sea level. Ron Kirby, the acclaimed course architect, set out to build a “Caribbean Masterpiece” when he designed this par 72 layout, covering 7,041 yards of gorgeous scenery. Stunning coastal views are accompanied by challenging holes throughout the course. Vistas of the Atlantic and the Caribbean stand with stark elevation changes, wide fairways, and deep natural gullies. The occasional monkey may be seen as well, so be sure to keep an eye on your ball.
For this highly anticipated event, there was no better choice for the host than Ian Woosnam. As an ambassador for Apes Hill, a resident of Barbados, and having both a Masters win and Number 1 ranking in his back pocket, Woosnam is the right man at the helm. In addition to Woosnam, the field will be studded with stars like Shaun Micheel, Michael Campbell, and Angel Cabrera. But, there is certainly more than just the tournament that will make the weekend at Apes Hill special.
As a resort, Apes Hill offers its guests an array of luxury one and two-story golf villas amidst the natural beauty of Barbados. In its brief history, Apes Hill has earned a series of honors at the 2023 World Golf Awards, including Best Golf Course Barbados, Best Golf Course Caribbean, Best Eco-Friendly Golf Facility, and Best Golf Real Estate Venue.
Beyond golf, Apes Hill Resort offers a plethora of activities to suit every interest. For on-site activities, look for the floodlit padel and tennis courts or simply unwind by your private pool. Guests can also explore the vibrant natural heritage of the area through indigenous gully hiking trails. Pristine beaches along the gorgeous west coast are ideal for water sports and relaxation and are less than ten minutes away.
Apes Hill is a must-see destination. Tune into coverage of the tournament on May 3rd and learn just how much it is.
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