On the Links

After one plane, one train and more than a few automobiles, I made to the home of golf, St. Andrews Scotland last week. Because of the terrorist situation at the Glasgow airport earlier that day our final destination was switched not once but twice. Eventually we ended up landing in Edinburgh which actually got us closer to St. Andrews but without a rental car. Long story short, I arrived in St. Andrews jammed into a small cab with 3 other guys, 3 sets of golf clubs and a whack of other luggage. Not exactly how I thought "On the Links" would finally arrive where our great game of golf started, but none the less it was a fun adventure.

We were in Scotland to cover the 2007 International Pairs final. This is the event where the average Joe and one of his golfing buddies can win a chance to represent his country despite perhaps having a double digit handicap. Pretty good deal for a $30 investment I might add.

After a short nap it was off to the Jiggers Inn which overlooks the 17th green at the Old Course and of course the famous 18th hole as well. After a few beers there, we had a Canadian Night to celebrate July 1st back home. Here's a tip, unless you love peameal bacon as a diner entree don't order a Gammon Steak while in Scotland. I guess it was fitting however that a few of us Canadians mowed down on the peameal on Canada Day. If there was only a few Molsons to wash it down with !

After a round of the Torrence Course at St. Andrews Bay, we took in the action at the Dunvegan Hotel, the famous spot where many British Open players and caddies have been known to stop in when in town. Arnold, Tiger and Phil are among those who have all enjoyed a few pops at the Dunvegan. It's only 112 yards from The Old Course or as they say a 9 iron away, and definitely a must stop if you head over there to play in St. Andrews.

All in all it was great experience to visit Scotland and I would recommend it to anyone who has ever thought about a golf trip there. I never did play the Old Course but just being around it and walking up the 18th hole was good enough for me this time around.

Our Canadian team of Don Murphy and Jack Wratten from Brantford tried hard but could not pull off a Top 10 finish ending up in 12. The event was won by the team from England who beat out Wales and the host Scottish team in a play-off.

Thanks to IP Canada for the chance to be part of it. If you see an International Pairs qualifier at your local club, grab a partner and sign up and take your shot at being part of it all next year when the event takes place again in Scotland.