Royal Troon Golf Club

Overview

Troon Golf Club was formed on the 16th March 1878 in Portland Arms Hotel. George Strath was installed as the first Professional to the Club and to date only five other Professionals have held the position. The first Clubhouse of a substantial nature was completed in 1886 and additions and alterations over the years have provided the members with a building of character and considerable charm. In the Centenary Year, 1978, the Club was proud to receive the Royal Accolade. The Old Course is a layout of two distinct halves. On the outward nine with the wind at your back, you really have to make your score. This is easier said than done however, especially with thick rough and front pins. Royal Troon's signature hole is ‘The Postage Stamp’ eighth. A mere 120 yards, but a tiny green combined with trouble all around can sometimes prove to be the end of a promising scorecard. The back nine boasts considerably yardage and is a severe test of long straight hitting. But not necessarily suiting the golfer who builds his game around powerful driving, as Todd Hamilton proved by lifting the Claret Jug in 2004. The Portland Course was opened in June 1895 although it was only in 1924 that the name was changed from the Relief Course. In more recent times it has hosted qualifying rounds for a European Tour event, and is definitely the second best course of the many that are to be found in the golfing haven of Troon. It is undoubtedly less punishing than the Championship Course at Royal Troon but an ideal warm up. Royal Troon also afford you the opportunity to experience lunch in one the finest clubhouses in Scotland - an offer not to be refused.