We spent the evening in the Kilmarnock Arms hotel in Cruden. Very interesting place where Gram Stoker holidayed and was inspired to create his classic novel ‘Dracula’ after viewing the nearby Slaines Castle. The innkeeper was gracious enough to show the guest book from 1892 signed by Mr. Stoker. Too cool. Interesting note re the hotel – all the staff appears to be named Susan. At least, all those we interacted with.
Cruden Bay – we finally get to play the course I’ve been looking forward to for over a year. Good bones – designed by ‘Old Tom Morris’ by the Great North of Scotland railway company in 1891 and tweaked by Archie Simpson in 1899. Some say golf was played at the course back in the 18th century. Morris and Simpson used the original lie of the land to sculpt the course. The course almost has a moonscape appearance, winding between 3-story dunes, the beach (in play), punchbowl greens and the ever-present gorse. Fantastic views abound.
The conditions are perfect – no rain, little wind, very unusual for this part of Scotland. Sadly, my excitement at play exceeded the quality of same. Very poor round, but still a fantastic experience.
After a much-needed pint and soup in the clubhouse, we meet our new driver Paul and head south to our next stop, the Ship Inn in Stonehaven. Stonehaven is the home of ‘6-degree’ brewing – a well-respected brewer of Belgian style ales. For research purposes, we explored the 6-degree range. The hype is justified.
> Winners of today’s ‘Disaster Match’ were Dick & Ron who are each awarded a ‘Champ Mòr’ point.
> Bill takes low daily honors with a net score of ‘78’ (tough course).
> Best shot of the day goes to Don with a 30-yard chip-in on #5.
> Today: lost balls – 17 (!!); bunkers – 15
> Group totals for trip: lost balls – 48; bunkers – 69
Comments (3)
This is great!!! Thank you for sharing – just catching up from last Friday – hard to pay attention at work!!! Hit em straight!
That is an absolutely gorgeous course, what a wonderful view. Who cares what the score was
Gotta’ love that.