A question we are often asked by our clients is if they should take a caddie or not; and with the average caddie fee being around $60-$70 per round (not including tip) it is a good question. This is especially relevant in Scotland where caddies do not double-bag, and Ireland where fees are per bag.
At PerryGolf we always recommend that our clients take caddies as they add significantly to the enjoyment of a round. Apart from the obvious benefit of them carrying your bag, looking for your ball, raking bunkers and cleaning clubs, etc, they make negotiating, particularly links-style courses, much easier. They obviously assist in club selection based on distances, but links courses are often played in windy conditions where experience is absolutely essential. They are also able to help you tackle the blind shots that can arise on a links course as well as reading the (at times) severely undulating or large greens. I am sure many will agree that a caddie has saved them a few putts on the double greens of the Old Course at St. Andrews! All of this comes before you have even heard some of the great stories they have to tell from past experiences. They can give a visitor real enjoyment beyond the golf and give some local-insider knowledge to a trip… not least the best pubs to visit!!
By Alastair Niven. Alastair has been with PerryGolf for over 9 years and is one of our Golf Travel Specialists.
