After almost quarter of a century, the Open Championship returned to Carnoustie in 1999 and
lived up to its reputation as the toughest links course in the world. Most of the world`s top
players struggled to tame the 7,361-yard monster. Not since 1975 had the Open been held at
Carnoustie. In that year, Tom Watson came from nowhere to win. On its return it was perhaps
fitting that a local hero, Paul Lawrie from Aberdeen, should win after a four-hole play-off
with American Justin Leonard and France`s Jean Van de Velde. Lawrie`s winning score of 290 --
six over par -- is testament to the degree of difficulty. Carnoustie has been called the killer
links and Walter Hagen described it as the greatest course in the British Isles. When the wind
blows, it changes from a sleeping giant into a terror. Even from the club`s medal tees, 6,941 yards,
it is still formidable. Carnoustie will host the Open Championship again in 2007.
18 holes, 6,941 yards (medal tees), par 72 (SSS 75). Course record: A Tait, C Montgomerie 64.
Signature hole:
FOURTEENTH (483 yards, par 5) - The famous Spectacles, two large and deep bunkers in the face
of a ridge guarding the green about 80 yards from the flag. The tee-shot is critical, for there
is out of bounds on the left and a wood to the right and bunkers sited to catch and punish the
smallest error. The tee-shot must be long and perfectly placed to have any chance of carrying
the Spectacles with the second shot.
Yes. Must have handicap certificate - men 28, ladies 36. Weekdays and Saturdays after 2p.m.
Sundays after 11.30a.m. Contact in advance for availability.
£95 per round. Juniors half price. Combination tickets: round on championship course +
Burnside £110; round on championship course +Buddon Links £105.
Trolley hire, caddies, putting green.
South-west side of town off A930.
