Royal Birkdale does not only boast a fantastic course, but is a
recognized sanctuary for endangered wildlife and the fauna and
flora that is present on and around the golf course is abundant.
A particular delight is the Baltic Rush, the only known population
within the UK.
The course is tough, and you get thrown in at the deep end on
the first, a par 4 with out of bounds flanking the right of the hole.
An accurate drive is required to give you a chance of hitting the
green protected at the front by bunkers. It has to be one of the best
opening holes that I have played. A par is a brilliant score.
Throughout the 18 holes, golfers are required to hit fairways,
which at times are narrow and blind. The course drainage is superb,
resulting in hard fairways which lend a helping hand to the golfer.
Miss the fairway and you are going to be hunting for your ball, and
when you find it, getting it out is not a straightforward task even
for the better player.
The greens, are as you may expect from an Open Rota golf course,
are exceptional, true and quick. The various pot bunkers dotted
around the course will test even the most confident of bunker player.
The par 3’s are varied in length keeping the golfer interested and
testing all their skills with both the mid and long irons. A particular
favourite of mine is the short par 3 7th. An upturned saucer style
green is protected by 7 bunkers, so accuracy is key.
YOURCADDY
SCORE...
• OST OF THE OPEN
H
CHAMPIONSHIP
• ATURAL WILDLIFE
N
SANCTUARY
• ISITORS ONLY ON
V
WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAYS
The 18th is a spectacular finishing hole, a par 5 for the amateurs.
The drive over a heath land to a fairway protected by out of bounds
to the right and various pot bunkers means that an accurate and
long drive is essential. The green is well protected by a number of
bunkers making the approach to the green in front of the imposing
club house a little bit more difficult.
Overall the course is well worth a visit, and although more expensive
than some Open courses, the atmosphere and history makes Royal
Birkdale an absolute must. You will not be disappointed.
Overall the course is well worth a visit, and although more expensive
than some Open courses, the atmosphere and history makes Royal
Birkdale an absolute must. You will not be disappointed.
ISSUE 01 | YOURCADDY 33