Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club (Musselburgh Links)

When discussing the origins of modern golf, people often immediately think of the Old Course at St Andrews. However, just across the Firth of Forth near Edinburgh, the town of Musselburgh offers a different perspective. In Scotland, a land passionate about golf, many ancient links courses vie for the title of "oldest", yet Musselburgh stands out as the most important contender.

Historical records suggest that golf was played on Musselburgh's lands as early as the 17th century. Back then, golf was indeed a sport of the elites, embraced only by nobles and gentry. Both King James I and Mary, Queen of Scots, honed their skills here. Mary, given her noble status, also became the world's first female golfer.

In 2009, Musselburgh Links was briefly recognised by the Guinness World Records as the world's oldest golf course, until St Andrews unearthed earlier records. The debate over which is the oldest will undoubtedly continue between Musselburgh and St Andrews, however, Musselburgh Links, on the other hand, has its own unique history. In 1874, Musselburgh Links became one of the initial three rotating venues for The Open Championship, alongside St Andrews and Prestwick, hosting this world-renowned golf championship on six occasions.

Unlike the now conventional 18-hole courses, Musselburgh originally had just nine holes. As its fame grew, the limitations of its size made it increasingly challenging to host The Open Championship, leading to its eventual replacement by Muirfield in 1891. Today, Musselburgh Links has evolved into a renowned public course in Edinburgh.

A noteworthy legacy Musselburgh bestowed upon the world of golf is the standard 4 ¼ inch golf hole size. The origin? A drainpipe of that diameter was simply what the ground staff at Musselburgh had at hand for hole-cutting. So, the next time you narrowly miss a putt, perhaps you could wish Musselburgh had used a broader drainpipe!

Such unintentional yet impactful decisions shape the tales of Scotland's rich history, adding to its charm.

This project, one close to my heart, aims to shed light on this significant course in golf's modern history. I hope to introduce and familiarise more people with it and rally support for these invaluable local clubs.

My gratitude goes to Musselburgh Links and the Musselburgh Old Course Golf Club for their invitation, and a special thanks to old Tom for his insights during our visit. What a memorable experience on this ancient course!

#golf #golfcourse #musselburgh #standrews #edinburgh #eastlothian

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