With debates taking place on many topics within the world of golf, the planned modifications to the Old Course of St Andrews announced late November last year, and covered in our blog post of that time , caused considerable controversy and divided opinion.
In announcing the changes the St Andrews Links Trust and the R&A said they were being made “to stiffen its defences in some places to ensure it remains as challenging as ever to the professionals. The proposals from (highly respected links architect) Martin Hawtree should place more of a premium on accuracy and ball control while retaining the spirit and character of the Old Course.” In underscoring the minor nature of the work R&A Chief Executive Peter Dawson said “It’s men with shovels and wheelbarrows rather than bulldozers.”
The first phase (winter 2012/13) is now complete. The changes appear minor, blend in well, and are consistent with the Links Trust’s measured and caring yet progressive custodianship of the St Andrews Links. The images below reaffirm that the affected areas will be fully ready and in play for the 2013 season.
Hole #2
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Links Trust Description; On the 2nd hole, the two bunkers right and short of the green will be moved closer to the right edge of the green. The ground to the right of the green will also be recontoured to create more undulations and the width of 3rd tee will be reduced to accommodate this. Two bunkers on the right side of the fairway, near the 3rd Championship tee, will be removed.
Hole #11
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Links Trust Description; the back left portion of the green will be lowered to create more hole location options.
Hole #17
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Links Trust Description; the Road Bunker will be widened by half a metre at the right hand side and a small portion of the front of the green will be recontoured to enable it to gather more approach shots landing in that area.
By Colin Dalgleish, Founding Director at PerryGolf
