The Old Course at St Andrews is one of the most iconic and historic golf courses in the world. With its rich tradition and storied past, it offers golfers a unique experience that feels both surreal and humbling. We recently hosted PGA Pro Golfer – Jamie Debrou, who has shared his thoughts and opinions on what it’s like playing the world’s first ever golf course.
The Nerve-Wracking Holes
Playing iconic holes like 17, 18, and the 1st is a surreal experience. These holes often have crowds gathered around, heightening the pressure and adding to the excitement.
The atmosphere is electric, but it can also be overwhelming if you let the nerves take over – so a top tip for this would be to try and stay relaxed before teeing off – take your time and don’t rush any shots!
The Greens
One of the most distinctive features of the course is the number of double greens. Out of the 18 holes, only four don’t feature these massive putting surfaces, creating a truly unique experience.
The greens themselves are often undulating and reading them can be a challenge. The wind, too, adds an unpredictable element to the mix, requiring all players to adjust their game and strategy accordingly.
The greens are also not the quickest, this is because the wind can easily push a ball off line, but that does mean the putts are hard to read – there isn’t much break and misreading the break can be costly!
Top Tips for Playing the Old Course
1. Be sure to hire a caddie
The Old Course is filled with blind corners and challenging tee shots, so a knowledgeable caddie is invaluable. They’ll guide you on where to hit off the tee, which lines to take, and help you avoid the hidden bunkers that can easily catch you out.
2. Hit the ball straight off the tee
Accuracy is more important than power here. You don’t need to hit a driver off every tee, as the big bunkers and hazards are often in places you can’t see. Keeping your shots straight and smart will help you avoid trouble.
3. Sharpen up on your putting skills
The greens at St Andrews can be deceiving, and long putts are especially challenging. Spend time working on your putting before you play, as this will be crucial to your success. Take time to read the greens carefully - many putts don’t break as much as they seem.
4. Commit to your shots
When you step up to the first tee, don’t overthink it. Whether you grab a 5-iron or a driver, commit to your shot and hit it with confidence. The first tee at St Andrews is one of the most memorable in the world, so start your round as you mean to go on.
The Old Course at St Andrews is a test of both skill and mental fortitude. From the historic significance of the course to the unique challenges it offers, every golfer should experience it at least once in their lifetime. It’s a place where legends are made, and each round played feels like a piece of golf history. Find out more about playing The Old Course here.
