A Memorable Golf Experience at Trump Turnberry

Scotland’s Gem: A Golfing Adventure at Trump Turnberry

When you visit Turnberry, a town in Scotland known for its stunning coastal landscape, it’s hard not to get caught up in the magic of the moment. This summer, I had the chance to play on the Ailsa Course, which is often called one of the best golf courses in the world, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint one bit.

A Perfect Day Before the Storm

The day I played at Turnberry was one to remember. I was blissfully unaware that soon I’d be faced with a nasty Covid diagnosis, but that didn’t dampen my spirits on the course. I strolled around with a little sniffle, thinking, “Ah, just some hay fever,” as everyone around me kept suggesting I take a tablet. Little did I know, the real fever was just a few hours away.

But let’s put that aside for now—it was my first time at the Ailsa Course, and it was glorious. The course is famous for some incredible moments in golf history. Who could forget when Stewart Cink made history here by defeating 59-year-old Tom Watson in a playoff for the 2009 Open Championship? Walking in the footsteps of such legends gave me chills!

Running into Fellow Golfers

As I played, I couldn’t help but feel the excitement in the air. Some big names in golf were also out enjoying the links, like Scottie Scheffler, Adam Scott, and Sam Burns. I even saw Luke Donald, the European Ryder Cup captain, just a couple of groups ahead of me. I wondered if our paths would cross, but soon, the beauty of Turnberry had my full attention.

Catching the Views

The Ailsa Course is unique in that it plays with the landscape. You’ve got massive dunes, gorse, and heather, which not only make for a scenic round but also help you keep track of your ball. No worrying about losing it in thick woods here. Whether you end up in the fescue or not, at least you know where to look (hello, drop zones!).

The real thrill of the course begins at the par-3 4th hole. As you hit your tee shot, the Irish Sea comes into view along with the Isle of Arran in the distance. But it hits even harder on holes 8, 9, and 10, where the sea is your constant companion. The 9th hole features a stunning lighthouse and a shoreline where locals gather to watch the sunset. It’s the kind of atmosphere you only dream about!

A Special Invitation

Now, golf at Turnberry doesn’t come cheap. With greens fees nearing four digits, it’s not the kind of place you play every week. Luckily, our day took a delightful turn when a friendly foursome invited us to join them on the back nine. Six players instead of four? In Scotland? Sure thing! A maintenance staffer assured us the course was ours for the taking, and off we went, packs on our backs, ready to take on those gorgeous Scottish skies.

Winding Down Under Pink Skies

As the sun began to set, it felt like we were living in a painting. The afternoon breezes shifted to a calmness, and standing on the 18th tee at nearly 10 PM as the sky turned pink was a surreal experience. Almost a neon reminder of why we love this game. Forget about your score; it’s all about the moment!

The Bittersweet Close

As we finished up, I managed to grab a few pars, a birdie, and just one double bogey before I noticed the first signs of the illness hitting me. Coughing and sniffles now flourished into something more serious, and just like that, Covid had arrived. But trust me when I say, it didn’t ruin this magical day on such a legendary course. The memories made at Turnberry, with the breathtaking views and newfound friends, will stick with me much longer than any cough will.

Returning to Scotland

As a golf enthusiast and someone who cherishes memories, my time at Turnberry was something special. Even after the curveball of Covid, that day will endure in my mind and hopefully draw me back to that beautiful turf one day. Until next time, Scotland!