The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, a prestigious four-day golfing event, began in 2001, replacing the Alfred Dunhill Cup. Its roots, however, can be traced back to 1985. The tournament promotes both golf and St. Andrews and is played across three iconic Scottish courses: the Old Course at St. Andrews, the Carnoustie Championship Course, and Kingsbarns Golf Links.
Each course boasts a rich history. The Old Course, dating back over 400 years, is often considered the world’s oldest golf course and is known as the “Home of Golf.” It played a key role in shaping the game and, despite being the easiest of the three, remains legendary. At one point in 1799, it was sold to rabbit breeders before being restored to its current glory by James Cheape.
Carnoustie, near Dundee, is regarded as the most challenging of the three courses, known for its difficult back-nine and treacherous bunkers. The Carnoustie Burnside Course is also famous for golf legend Ben Hogan’s 70-shot qualifier for the Open Championship, which he went on to win.
Kingsbarns Golf Links, first a 9-hole course in the 1700s, underwent various transformations, including being used for farming and mining during World War II. It wasn’t until American architect Kyle Phillips revived the course in 2000 that it became what it is today, with the North Sea offering a stunning backdrop.
The championship is known for its iconic holes, including the 495-yard “Road Hole” at St. Andrews, notorious for its difficulty, and Carnoustie’s 6th hole with its strategically placed bunkers. Kingsbarns also features unique fairways, such as the overlapping 6th and 7th holes, adding to the charm of the tour
nament.
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