From:
Andy Brown
Enjoying a Cappuccino at –
The Rule, 116 South Street, St Andrews
Saturday, 13:01 p.m.
Dear Friend,
I trust you are having an enjoyable Saturday.
Firstly I’m sending you a “Happy Burns Night” – a celebration of the life of the great Scottish Poet Robert Burns.
Secondly I have an idea, but would really appreciate your feedback.
You see I’m passionate about St Andrews and I wondered if you would like to see more of the old grey town in terms of video clips. In fact I was thinking of a regular TV show where I get to share this magical place with you.
The internet now allows anyone with a camcorder, even mobile phone, to share interesting and fun footage with everyone around the world. It therefore seems an amazing opportunity to have a wee dram, flip on the camera and open up the world of St Andrews and other great golfing towns and courses to you. How about I shoot up to Royal Dornoch and give you a feel for this hidden gem?
I currently have no script, just loads of ideas – but in a way they are worthless if I don’t provide entertaining video that you want to see.
Therefore if the idea of watching a fun online video show based on St Andrews and the world of Scottish golf appeals please take a minute to send a comment below. I would also love to hear your stories about St Andrews and particulary the type of things you would like to see on video.
Many may be travelling here for a golf holiday this year and therefore I can easily offer my recommendations on hotels, restaurants and pubs!
How long should the show be? Maybe 3 – 10 mins every day or 15 – 30 mins every week. Only with your ideas can I produce a format that brings the Home of Golf to your desktop!
I look forward to reading your comments.
Finally today marks the 250th anniversary of Robert Burns’ birth and the official start of the Scottish Homecoming – an events programme celebrating Scotland’s great contributions to the world. Check out the video below for a flavour of the event – I just find it amusing to watch Sam Torrance sing at 13 seconds in!
Have a great weekend and if are indoors Sunday night, why not log on to this virtual whisky tasting as Andrew Dubber and Clutch Daisy taste the Isle of Jura 10 year old, the Aberlour 10 year old and the Laphroaig 10.
Happy Burns Night
Cheers
Andy
P.S. Follow me here
Andy, I have enjoyed reading your Rules of Golf newsletter for about a year now! I think there is a great deal of enjoyment and information you can make available to the rest of us golf “wannabees” around the world.
Thank you and keep up the great work!
Bob
[…] 24th January I announced my “idea” in this blog post and on ther strength of the 150 favourable comments I have produced this first […]
What a worderful idea! I have only been to St. Andrews once, about 30 years ago when I didn’t even know golf existed. We walked on the sacred lawn, played a game mini-golf my wife and I and bought my father in law a cap with the SA logo, which I still have. Since then I’ve been back to the UK about five times and have played golf there twice, once at Tylney and I can’t remember the other course. I think if this scheme works, you might even have the courses interested in your publicity, let alone other golf related enterprises.
Andy’s Reply:
Cheers Norman,
Many thanks for the vote of confidence!
Andy
Andy,
Best thing I ever did for my game was get The New Four Magic Moves. Love the rules emails, and everything else that has come as a result. Can’t wait for your first video, I know whatever you do will be both fun and educational.
Larry Horany
Enid, Ok., USA
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Larry,
Many thanks for your kind words.
I’m currently working on the first episode.
All the best.
Andy
Andy, At the time of writing this you have already had 134 responses to your idea so I might as well make it 135. I think it is a great idea as there are soooo many people who may not have the opportunity to play one of those great courses with their majestic beauty and perfectly carved holes overlooking or running side by side the elegant oceans of that geographical area. A suggestion would be to have a look at one of the many ideal holes and how you might play them should you ever visit there. Make it be a part of the program that you show and analyze at least one during your 30 minute time slot or whatever you plan the time slot to be. Growing up in California and playing courses in San Clemente, Newport Beach, and Huntington Beach I know what the links style is like to play in. Most recently I have moved to Northen California and had the priveledge to play these three great LINKS courses. Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill, and the one which I feel most portrays the Scottish Links style…Spanish Bay. Wind, Weather and about any extensive conditions that you can imagine have surfaced when playing those courses.
Thanks,
Dan
Andy’s Reply:
Many thanks for your comment. I never thought I would get this many replies!
I can’t wait to start filming.
Kind Regards
Andy
wow!!!! it would be a such great idea!!
Younes
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Younes,
Glad you like the idea.
I’m currently working on the first show.
Cheers
Andy
Hi,
Had Burns night last night at home, specially with a “Mogerley” haggis from Dumfries.
Have played at Old course & ubilee.
Also played a week 6 games at Royal Dornoch. Played Newbattle 18 months ago came 2nd in the 2 day Vets comp August.
Played virtually all courses near North Berwick with 17 miles, except Craigmillar and playing Archerfield later this year.
Brgds
Fred
Andy’s Reply:
Cheers Fred – sounds like you are having fun!
Andy
That sounds good, St Andrews is one I still wanna play before I go to the golf course in the sky. Had a good day yesterday, shot an 81- ALMOST broker 80, and I had the pleasure of witnessing my first ever hole in one, needless to say the drinks were flowing at the 19th.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Shaun,
I’m sure you will get to St Andrews!
Cheers
Andy
Dear Andy,
For those who have the same passion as yourself then a video clip every now again I’m sure they would enjoy. Personally, I don’t share your passion and so for me it would be a waste of your valuable time.
Best regards
Keith
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Keith,
Many thanks for your honest feedback, it is much appreciated.
Cheers
Andy
Absolutely i would love for you to send me pics and mabyi can send you some of were im at.
Austin
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Austin,
Great to hear from you – thanks for the feedback.
Kind Regards
Andy
Hi Andy,
The Video sounds great.I’m hoping to get up to St Andrews later this year for a few games of golf with a couple of friends, so a Video of the course and surrounding town would be great. The names of a couple of good taverns and Hotels would also be useful.
Looking forward to seeing the first Video
Jeff
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Jeff,
I will make it my mission to shoot all the best taverns and hotels.
Speak to you later.
Andy
Andy:
My favorite St. Andrews story concerns a former employer of mine who was on a golfing holiday in Scotland. Off one of the first few tees, he hit a terrible shot, and said to his caddy, “I think I’ll take another one.
In America, we call that a mulligan. I don’t know what you call it here.”
The caddy looked at him and replied, “Aye, we call it cheatin’.”
Glenn
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Glen
Fantastic story – got anymore?
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
Cheers. I would welcome the opportunity to see the old course from a real player’s perspective. The produced videos and TV don’t really capture it.
Cheers and here’s a Glen Livet in your honour!
John
Andy’s Reply:
Hi John,
I tend to agree John,
Will do my best.
Kind Regards
Andy
I would definately enjoy a 10 minute video per week spotlighting St. Andrews.
Sammy
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Sammy,
Thanks for letting me.
The first episode is just around the corner!
Cheers
Andy
Andy, …great idea and loved the video – good words & voices. Having never been to your good land and sites, not to mention golf courses, I’m excited to see and hear more. I would do one show a week for about 30 minutes. Look forward to whatever you decide to show us.
Thanks muchly, Jerry
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Jerry,
I appreciate the time you have taken to comment.
It is much appreciated.
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
I know St. Andrews well and, to be honest, watching videos or photos about it on a regular basis does not appeal to me.
As far as stories about the course are concerned, I recall that I was playing there on year at a Rotary Club International tournament on the 4th of July. At one point is started raining and the wind was so strong that the raindrops actually hurt my face, just as sand would do in a sandstorm! I had never experienced anything like it. My partner and I had to give up on the 9th and the hot bath I had later at the hotel was a thaw more than a wash…!
I wish you success in your new idea.
All the best.
Neri
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Neri,
Yes the weather is sometimes not too good!
Thanks for your story.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
It’s sunday evening, though not Scottish, we enjoyed Australia day eve and today a pleasant Australia day. The idea floated of a short video is great for us far away. Seeing the courses, finding out about tours, fees, associations etc. will be great. Keep up the good work. The emails are good ’cause no phone or camera links. The other replies should also encourage this project.
Andy’s Reply:
Many thanks for emailing me David.
Thanks for your feedback.
Cheers
Andy
Great idea Andy, for those of us with a true passion for golf would love to see it. By the way, thanks for all the help with my game.
Scott
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Scott,
Thanks for the feedback, I’m definitely passionate so I believe we will be off to a great start!
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
I’d love to see a regular short piece on “The Course” It would be great to see a clip showing each hole and the recommended best way of playing it.
Of course we would all learn more from seeing each hole played in different seasons and any different circumstances/conditions as you can manage.
You could probably turn this into a very much watched feature using guest players of varying skill levels to further stimulate interest. You wouldn’t be trying too hard to achieve this if you couldn’t get volunteer players and a substantial team of sponsors.
Perhaps it would be worth running a competition to win a place in the clip playing a hole at St Andrews.
You wouldn’t be short on applicants.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi John,
Many thanks for all your ideas.
It is much appreciated and I will consider all of them.
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
Would love to see more of St Andrews and other Scottish golf courses. Coming from Down-Under we don’t often get the chance to see a lot of your beautiful courses. 30 minutes a week would be fantastic.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Gary,
Good to hear you would like to see St Andrews and some of the other courses.
I have lots of ideas in the pot and will be filming very shortly.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy happy burns night to you.There is a market for your video as there is greater access for golfers to great courses.There was a program with a celebrity going playing golf courses around the counties and the pro would give you tips on how to play the hole.As golf is universal you could even hold your own channel and invite proper guests(not celebrities) and then a fun 9 holes with a pro as all golfers dream of playing as or with a pro.You are in a unique position you have a great energy about you – don’t waste it.
My friend wrote an article on St Andrews and was published in a magazine and was offered the chance to play She said i would not want to spoil the course lol(swing wise).In her honour i would play there 1 day when i do i will e-mail and if you are available then Great great.:smile::smile::smile:
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Peter,
I agree, I certainly don’t want to waste this great opportunity.
I will email you when the first episode is online.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
I think your idea is great for the video – will forward to seeing the end result.
My Mother came from Motherwell White Inch and my Father from Glasgow.
So there is a little bit of Robbie Burns in me.
Jean
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Jean,
I will let you know when it goes live.
All the best.
Andy
as an avid “duffer ” having ancestors from Islay and just read a book about the “Morris’s “I would be very interested
Andy’s Reply:
Hi John,
Great to hear from you.
Many thanks for your interest.
Kind Regards
Andy
Go for it Andy.
I always find your stuff amusing and interesting and hope to one play some of these magical courses.
Regards
Michael.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Michael,
Thanks for the support.
Cheers
Andy
great idea andy. though i’ve never been to scotland i truly understand the history and would love to see some “insider” video. best wishes and good luck.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Derek,
Thanks for your comments.
You aren’t the only one looking to hear some of the history.
Cheers
Andy
splendid idea Andy look forward to seeing them.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Robert,
Many thanks for the vote of confidence.
Cheers
Andy
Great idea Andy. Have visited and played St Andrews once, the wind guage showed 58 mph!! It is the only time I have driven a par 4!! Look forward to seeing the old town in calmer times!
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Tony.
Yes it can get a bit windy at times!
Many thanks for your feedback.
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
I have enjoyed and benefitted from all your efforts over the past few years (is it how long?). I was a student at Dundee in the 60s and my degree therefore is from St.Andrews. I didn’t [lay golf then but I took part in the annual University Newspaper putting competition somewhere near the R&A.
Last year a group of us from Henley GC did a James Braid expedition to Fife and Angus and we walked on the Old Course and pretended we were about to win the open – or at least I did.
Good luck to your new venture – I’ll be watching.
Joe Edwards.
ps I have really enjoyed the rules quiz – very useful.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Joe,
I wish I had studied in St Andrews but for all those that did and want to look back I hope to provide some great entertainment.
Many thanks for your good luck wishes.
Cheers
Andy
Dear Andy,
I would be delighted to see your regular clips about St Andrews. I studied medicine there from 1987 to 1990. As young black student from a non-golfing Central African Country (Malawi) learning more about golf was my remotest idea in those days. As a student I had the pleasure of working in a bar at the Old Course during one of the tournaments; Dunhill (I think) but that was just about pocket money to be able to down a couple of pints in the students union bar on weekends. Now I live in Cape Town and have taken up golf. It’s the most ejoyable experience of my life. With my handicap dropping from 24 to 8 in two years I am itching to play at the Old Course before I die. So please bring those pictures on man. I would love to see those nice golf shops on St Andrews streets again!!
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Tom,
It won’t be long now …
I hope to rekindle some fond memories.
Stay in touch.
Andy
Andy..my friend..its a great idea….Rgds
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Khalid,
Thanks for your feedback, it is much appreciated.
All the best.
Andy
Andy,
This is a great idea. I am planning my first visit to Scotland in August and have been able to book tee times both at Old Course, Carnoustie, Royal Dornoch and PGA Centenary at Gleneagles. I have preordered course guides as well. I am looking at web cams almost daily. With your idea I can also have further pre-views. I can therefore have the fun three times – 1) planning and dreaming – 2) experiencing myself – 3) remembering./Lennart
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Lennart,
Sounds like you will have a fantastic time.
May I suggest the Dunvegan for a pint after your round on the Old Course, just a nine iron from the 18th green.
Have fun.
Cheers
Andy
Hi, Andy. I think is a splendid idea to show the beauty of St. Andrews. I have not had the pleasure to visit the area, so for me to vicariously experience the town and the links would be great!
Keep up the good work you do on behalf of the sport that is so dear to us.
Rene
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Rene,
Many thanks for your kind words.
I’m currently working on the first episode and will get back to you when it goes live.
Kind Regards
Andy
Sounds like a great idea!
From what I heard there are a ton of gorgeous courses up north along the ocean. Might be a good excuse for you to travel around and play some new Scottish links.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Karl,
There are many great courses in this part of the world and hope to bring some of them to your desktop.
All the best.
Andy
Good idea – I have never been there and would like to see video about St Andrews- but try to reduce the amount of text and keep the video reasonably short. I don’t want to spend more than a minute or two reading and not more than 5 minutes watching a video. Hope this helps.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi David,
I think the general opinion is that 3 minutes is about right, quality over quantity.
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
I’d be interested in seeing a 10-15 minute video each week on some of the historic courses. Would even be more interesting if you could include some historic tidbits — whether they be serious or humorous. Probably should consider speaking to some of the caddies who have been around awhile for some stories.
Allan
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Allan,
A great idea – note to self – must talk to caddies.
Cheers
Andy
Andy, I enjoy getting all your updates/blogs, and I just wanted to let you know that I am more than willing to come over to the old country, and play a round and co-star in one of your golfing videos…you can even use my swing and break it down. Looking forward to receiving my plane ticket, cu there.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Darren,
Now there’s an idea!
Cheers
Andy
Hey andy do not forget Royal Aberdeen.
Regards
David
Andy’s Reply:
Hi David,
I certainly won’t!
Cheers
Andy
Hi andy,
Great idea, i love to hear anything from home.
Best wishes
John.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi John,
I’m working on the first episode this week.
Cheers
Andy
Dear Andy,
Thank you for you suggestion but my answer is no thank you. I have played the Old course many times on a simulator and one day I will come up to play it for real.
Incidently, as a schoolboy in 1943, I cycled from London to Fort William and back, with 2 friends and climed Ben Nevis, all in 3 weeks. Total expediture £6 10s. We also missed the worst air raid to hit Ealing during this trip. I also gained a taste for porridge, the Scots way while staying in Youth hostels.
Those were the days when cycling was a pleasure.
God bless,
John
Andy’s Reply:
Hi John,
Many thanks for your comments.
I can imagine the same cycle ride would be a little more stressful!
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
Great idea about the videos. I would be interested in the longer, weekly viewing. I’ve never been golfing in Scotland so would relish the thought of insider information on accommodation, eating houses and the like.
p.s. I broke 80 for only the second time today (playing off 15), even though I dropped 5 shots on the 1st 2 holes. Concentrated on the 4 magic moves and had 7 pars and a birdie on the last 10 holes. Can’t wait for the start of the season and watching my handicap go into free fall.
Keep the information flowing
John
Andy’s Reply:
Hi John,
Yes this show will definitely give the insider information – I will make it my mission!
Fantastic news with the golf, keep me posted.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
Sounds like a great idea.
A tour of the OLD PLACE, some historical background on how St Andrews became The Home Of Golf, and a guided tour of the town would be greatly appreciated.
Regards
Neville Beccaria
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Neville,
Yes everyone is asking for some history and I really want to add this to the mix.
I appreciate your comments.
Kind Regards
Andy
Andy,
It would be neat to see some footage from St. Andrews. 4-5 min would be good.
Bruce
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Bruce,
Thanks for your advice on the timings.
All the best.
Andy
Hey Andy,
You have just fired up my memories of the nice Scottish town. I was there with three mates when were studying at Aston Uni in Birmingham and we visited St Andrews twice – once in winter 1984 and the second in early Spring 1985 when I played the Old Course and the Eden. I still remember that when I played the Eden, with the winter rule, I fired a 10-over gross and my handicap then was 24. It would be nice of you to post clips of St Andrews – the town itself (don’t know if the place selling home-made soups and stuff and filled with pictures of Dirk Bogart is still around) and of the course highlighting the Swilken Burn(?), the difficulty of teeing of on the last hole over the club house, the Valley of Sin, the Seven Sisters and the tough 18th Green where the ball can run down to the adjoining road, if misjudged.
Your clips could be 3-minute snippets of the Old Course and you could also make a 30-minute one of the town itself. I run a travelogue of my trips including golf ones. You and your subscribers are invited to visit me at http://traveldaddy.blogspot.com/
Cheers!
Larry.
Andy Reply’s
Hi Larry,
Great to hear your stories.
Everyone seems to have some fond memories of St Andrews whatever the weather!
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy
Nice idea, but instead of dashing up to Dornoch, how about a golfer’s view
of the local courses in Fife and Tayside. Talk to the greenkeepers on these
courses for useful thoughts
Bruce
Andy Reply’s
Hi Bruce,
Many thanks for your comment and definitely a good point.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
If nails have sweet spots I think ya just got it mate.
Yeah I love St Andrews too, my only escape whilst spending more than ten years based in Dundee, working for an offshore company.
I am now based in Singapore (still miss Scotland) but seems to me the rest of the world all start their swings originating from good old St Andrews.And therefore with golf folks everywhere St Andrews is in the system perminently and probably they could never have enough of it.
I hope this helps mate?
Just remember a good old surfing tip (if in doubt GO FOR IT) has never helped my golf but may be the start of a great video show?
Thank -you and Best regards Kim
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Kim,
Glad to think you believe the idea will work.
I’m definitely going for it!
Kind Regards
Andy
Andy,
I think you have agreat idea, keep it to 15to30 min, also play 1 or 2 holes to show what sets these great courses apart from other courses.
Andy’s Brown:
Hi James,
Thanks for the feedback.
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
I like your idea and would like you to consider a segment on your show with me and my work. I created the Beat the Bogey Man method and my new book on our new program is coming out this year! Let me know if you would like further this conversation and thank you in advance for your consideration.
Freedom
Dr.Fox
Andy’s Reply:
Dr. Fox
Great to see you on the blog.
I have heard great things about Beat the Bogey Man, I will definitely be in contact.
Cheers
Andy
Sounds like a great idea if you have enough time to do it.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Brian,
Good to hear from you.
I will definitely make time.
Cheers
Andy
Andy great idea but please only once a week or it will take me away from reading secerts of golf, I really need to spend time on this,as the golf was bad before I found you.
Regards Martyn.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Martyn,
Many thanks for your suggestion.
Cheers
Andy
I think the videos are a splendid idea. I just love Scotland, although I have never been there! I have received your DVD.s and book and just love them. I am from the NE United States and usually play winter golf, but with the snowfall we’ve had this winter there hasn’t been much golf. The items I received from you have really helped pass the time. I really enjoy the interaction with you on the comp. and share your obvious passion for this great game of golf. Please keep up the great work!!
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Lenny,
It’s comments like yours that make it all worth while.
I’m really going to ramp it up in 2009 and 2010 with the Open in Turnberry and St Andrews.
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
I love the idea, and for my part you can free range off the course(s) if you like and film anything to do with Scotland. There are those of us scattered about the world to many different environs, but who know we have Scot DNA and it tugs at the heart. Single malt is my only drink, and I am better at the scotch than the golf although the “four magic moves” have helped with ball contact. I think this winter I will review them all again because bad form creeps in over time.
Thanks
Andy’s Reply:
Hi,
I have already put the wheels in motion for the first episode.
If you like your single malts check out this unique event online tonight:
http://dubberandclutch.com/?p=288
Many thanks for your feedback.
Cheers
Andy
Sounds like a great idea. I’ve been to Scotland and loved every minute. The golf, the whisky, the sights, and the people are exceptional. Keep me informed, please.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Wallace,
I will let you know when the first episode is online.
Thank you for your comments.
Cheers
Andy
I think you have ANOTHER great idea. I am sure this would be enjoyed by many.
Thanks for all,
Kelly
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Kelly,
Great to hear from you.
I will let you know when I film the first episode.
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
I would enjoy seeing more of the town and environs of St. Andrews. You could start with the occasional video thrown into your regular letter. I do not know if I would care to commit, or have you commit to, a regular series.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Dave,
I thought about throwing in the odd video to the Golf Swing Secrets Revealed emails but then thought if I am going to do it properly I would do it as a separate site.
I will learn a lot from the first few episodes!
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
Your video idea is great and look forward to viewing.
I played The Old Course a few years ago with Rotary International. It was anounced over the loud speaker “On the tee Past President Vic Parker”, after some applause I made the back swing, brought the club down and topped the ball, with the ball scuttling along the ground for a short distance. Embarrassed, I certainly was!! I will not be making the same error again after your excellent golf lessons.
Cheers
Vic
Andy’s Reply:
Dear Vic,
You not the only one. Last year I saw someone skim the top of the ball (not even a top!) and it toppled off the tee in fact it may have gone backwards!
He probably went on to make a 4 or a 5 and that’s all that really matters on the scorecard!
Cheers
Andy
I love watching the Pros play at Saint Andrews so seeing the town that supports it would be great.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Thomas,
Thanks for your feedback!
All the best.
Cheers
Andy
Brilliant idea Andy !
As an ex greenkeeper, I love seeing the course as much as the golf, so I say go for it.
Cheers,
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Robert,
I bet you have a few stories!
Thanks for your kind feedback.
Kind Regards
Andy
Hi, Andy,
Good idea about St Andrews and Scottish courses. Don’t forget some other gems, like Crieff and Durness – the latter not famous but amazingly scenic and challenging.
Thanks for your continued advice and articles.
Sue
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Sue,
You are right there are some real gems out there that many haven’t seen.
All amazing scenic!
Take care.
Andy
Fantastic idea Andy, St Andrews is the home of golf after all, and you dont see a lot of presentations about golf courses and therir area, give it all and show the links courses in Scotland at there very best
Here’s tae Rab
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Les,
Thanks for your idea.
Cheers
Andy
This is great! Readin’ your posts for some time some far far away.. (Singapore) … it is always wonderful to see and experience what others feel and see…. especially if it has some Golfing ideas thrown in!
CH
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Christopher,
Great to hear from you in Singapore.
Cheers
Andy
Enya softly playing in the background and some of Burn’s verses narrated while we view some bonnie banks of gray and landscape.
Then some caddie comments possibly live. Some of them are quick and leathal with their sense of humor. Every true golfer even state side feels a draw to the home of golf. Build on that yerning that we all feel but only few can afford to be a part of the majesty and sense of history.Good luck.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Dennis,
I can hear you! Great ideas.
Many thanks for your feedback.
Cheers
Andy
Great idea. Would love to see the show. Ten minute show would probably be ideal. Don’t forget to post the video on You Tube as well. Look forward to seeing it.
Regards.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Jaipal,
Yes I will be posting it on all the video sharing sites like YouTube, DailyMotion and Viddler.
Many thanks for your comments.
Cheers
Andy
Great idea Andy, good luck with it.
Rosemary
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Rosemary,
Many thanks for your good luck message.
Kind Regards
Andy
😐 hi Andy,
I amsorry.i can’t see your video, i dono how about it
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Fikri,
Sorry to hear that, are you on a broadband connection?
Let me know some more details and I will see how I can help.
Cheers
Andy
Andy: Try 3 min daily @ St. Andrews! (Can you advise how I can buy your DVD set only- and the price. I can’t download stuff ; I don’t need the book of secrets revealed. Thanks.) Tom T.
Andy’s Reply:
Thanks Tom,
I have forwarded to question to support.
Kind Regards
Andy
Andy, I think you have an excellent idea there. I’ve walked over the Old Course – it’s public land owned by the town, and in regard to not having many trees, it only has scrub and Gorse bushes because it’s based on sand. I’d be interested to see a series of photos of any course you visit. I find videos are invariably too shaky, blurred and not clear and crisp enough to enjoy looking at. However still shots with a decent digital camera provide excellent and worthwhile viewing. Also, video’s are too big to bother with and certainly too big to keep on my PC. thanks, Arthur
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Arthur,
Many thanks for taking the time to reply.
All the best.
Cheers
Andy
Dear Andy,
Yes, I would find it interesting to watch such a video. I haven’t been to St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, and perhaps seeing your video will give me a nudge to make the trip.
It would be nice that you also feature the town and the surroundings, and the other places to visit and things to do there. These are not seen during the TV coverages of the British Open.
Cheers to Robert Burns!
Bert
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Bert,
Many thanks for your suggestions, I definitely want to include the town and its surroundings.
This won’t totally be about golf.
Cheers
Andy
I think a five minute video of old courses in scotland telling there history and who has played them etc, would be great, i’m sure a lot of people would enjoy them. thanks
steve
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Steve,
Many thanks for your feedback.
I really want to past on some of the history.
Cheers
Andy
I hope to get there some day. I would enjoy your proposed shows.
Andy’s Reply:
Jim,
That’s great to know.
Kind Regards
Andy
That does sound neat to say the least.
I’m heading off to Iraq again and don’t know when I’ll get the chance to see/read this stuff, but am sure others on your list would like it.
I’m afraid I won’t be any help as far as anything further is concerned, but wish you all the best over the next year. I hope to reengage when I come back home.
Chris
Andy’s Reply:
Chris,
I take my hat off to you and everything you do.
My thoughts are with you out in Iraq.
All the best.
Cheers
Andy
Andy, I enjoy your e-mails Having never been to Scotland I would personally enjoy the products of your labor.
Jim
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Jimmy,
Many thanks for letting me know.
I appreciate the feedback.
Cheers
Andy
Thanks for your efforts.
Andy’s Reply:
Cheers Bill
Andy
Hi Andy. As a senior gentleman living in a rural area of the US I would love to actually see your site(not the computer site – I look at that all the time)and enjoy some of the beautiful country side(golf courses) and towns. I’m afraid I may never make it to your area, but my daughter has visited several times and loves the area. I do get some nice keepsakes from the course after her visits. I would really enjoy 3 minute shows a couple of times a month since many of us in rural areas have very slow reception speeds (no DSL) and longer sessions just get interupted and lost.
Go for it in any fashion whatever and we will all enjoy as much of the experience as we can receive.
Bill C.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Bill,
Great to hear your daughter has had some enjoyable times over here.
The speed may be a problem but I will do what I can to help out those without DSL / broadband.
Take care.
Cheers
Andy
😛 What a great Golfing person you are. Helping would be Golfers like yours truly. I really enjoy the snippets you post
I really think what you propose would be the Greatest interest to all. I will never get to your neck of the woods unless I Win Tatts or something like that. If I do it would not be long before I would visit Scotland Ireland etc
At the age of 81 I do not think it will happen BUT you never know. In the mean time I will keep enjoying what you send relating to Golf
My advice GO MAN GO !!
Best regards Reginald Shanhan
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Reg,
Great to hear from you and thanks for your kind words.
I hope to give you a glimpse of Scotland through my eyes!
Cheers
Andy
Andy What a great idea – please go for it. My wife and I (from New Zealand) and three of my sons (working in the UK) visited St Andrews in ’04, and my wife absolutely fell in love with the place. We had visited her father’s birthplace in Dundee before going to St,A., stayed at Drumoig, played the Old Course and the New Course, and had a couple of rounds of Drumoig – a newish course (4 yrs old at that stage). I thought Drumoig had enormous potential, and it contained two of the best holes of golf I have ever played. I’d love to get back there, but at my age and with my retirement income it is not looking too likely, and only one of my sons still works in the UK.
So I will be able to revisit the wonderful area through your videos. Many thanks in anticipation.
Cheers,
Roger Garrett
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Roger,
With words like that how can I say this idea won’t work.
For those like yourself who have visited in the past it should be fun to see how things have changed or not.
I will get to work on the first video.
Cheers
Andy
Always enjoy your communiques Andy – looking forward to the St Andrews features.
David
Andy’s Reply:
Hi David,
Thanks for your kind comment.
All the best
Andy
Hi Andy,
I would welcome some videos of various courses in Scotland, but I would also like to see courses within approx . 100 miles of Liverpool. Detailing their summer / winter deals. videos of any courses in this area would also be very welcome.
Thank you for your emails.
Regards,
Doug
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Doug,
Thanks for the suggestion, I will definitely take it on board.
All the best.
Andy
Good afternoon Andy very cold here today having a hot chocolate I’ve been to St Andrews once a long time ago so yes I would like to see more of it I would think about 15 minutes every week would keep everyones interest thanks for letting me in on your idea take care.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Ervin,
I can’t wait to get started.
It should be fun.
Enjoy the hot chocolate!
Andy
Hi Andy,
Thanks for your tips and videos and the links to Scotlands greatest sons and daughters and the singing “wow.” As a Lang Toon lad aye I AM COMIN HAME this year to tour ma hameland, now I am retired. The Western Isles are callin mae. Do you ken Dunnikier in Kirkcaldy, I played up there before the Golf Club, when I was a waen.
A’ ra best
Brian in sunny Darset
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Brian,
I bet you can’t wait.
Enjoy your retirement.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy, love your new idea. Now here’s my idea… my family lineage is the Keith Clan of Dunnottar Castle. I’ve always wanted to see it and play golf in Scotland. Why not show me around and film it? It would be great to see someone experience Scotland for real and play the courses..wouldn’t it? It would be the opportunity of a lifetime for me and I think it would make the show personable and keep folks coming back to see what I do each episode..hey let me know! I’d have to start scheduleing around my summer tournament stuff! ( I visited your Twitter page too, sent the idea there)
Hope to hear from you!!! Tracy
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Tracy,
Now there’s an idea!
Not sure why wife would be too keen!
I film though try to film some of the tourist attractions.
All the best
Andy
Hi Andy
Anything to do with golf is always appreciated.
Cheers Phil
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Phil,
Many thanks
Andy
Andy,
First off let me say, I truly love the game of golf. Being a Physician, I do not have the time I’d like to devote to the game. That said, I would love to see more of Scotland and especially St. Andrews.
Always willing to learn more. I think yours is a great idea. Good luck and I look forward to watching your show!
William
Andy’s Reply:
Hi William,
Glad you like my idea and I appreciate you taking time to get back to me.
Cheers
Andy
Good Morning: For me I can say that I have been to St Andrews,And enjoy thy village, plus shot 78 the first and only round of golf on the Old Course. Woud not be new to me. I am enjoying the rules very much.only miss a couple with out going to the rule book. Wish the PGA.would do the same.
Warmest Wishes
David
Andy’s Reply:
Hi David,
Many thanks for your email.
Cheers
Andy
Hello Andy,
That would be a great idea being that my mother-in-law came from Edinburgh and her and my wife traveled back there some time ago bringing me back a momento of St. Andrews.
David
Andy’s Reply:
Hi David,
Many thanks for your comment.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy ,
Yes, I would support your idea of producing a video show on St Andrews .
Perhaps, as a start, having it as a once-a-week series would be ideal…..each ” episode ” could be , say, 15 minutes at the most .
Good Luck.
George
Andy’s Reply:
Hi George,
Thanks for your advice on the timings.
It is much appreciated.
Cheers
Andy
I would like to know more about the city of ST. Andrews home of golf and the country surrounding it.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Ron,
I hope to provide this for you.
Cheers
Andy
yes, it would be great to see and share
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Mario,
I appreciate you comment.
All the best.
Andy
Hi Andy, What a great idea telling us all about the Scotland you know, I am coming to St.Andrews in April for a short golfing holiday and would welcome some tips on the best watering holes in the Auld grey Toon. We’re staying at the Russell Hotel, if you know it I hope you can reccomend it. Please tell us of any other golfing destinations that you know of (preferably not quite so costly). If you care to come to the hotel between the 14th and 17th of April I’m sure that we can stand you a wee dram. Hope you had a fabulous Burns Night and woke up with your mouth feeling like a “wee and timourous beastie”. All the best Clive
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Clive,
Watering holes will be easy!
Yes the Russell Hotel on the Scores will be a great place for your stay.
Kind Regards
Andy
Andy
Having been born and brought up in Methil, just around the coast from St Andrews, I am fairly familiar with St Andrews. But you may come up with some gems of which I was unaware, so please go ahead with your suggested series.
I would also be interested in learning about other parts of Scotland that you have visited. As to length of the film, 10-15 minutes should suffice.
Alan
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Alan,
Fantastic feedback.
All the best
Andy
I would love to get to St Andrews to see the course let alone play it. Great idea for shows.
Would be nice to see some of the great courses.
I played at Celtic Manor this week and was looking at the Ryder Cup 2010 course. Perhaps you may like to include this one to?
Magic moves are improving nicely – still working on the self hypnosis
Kind Regards
Niel
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Niel,
Thanks for the feedback.
If I get down to Wales I will try to include it.
Cheers
Andy
250 years old..WOW You would think there would be more trees on the course?? I have St. Andrews on a Microsoft Golf Game that is very realistic and that doesn’t show many trees either. Don’t they grow there?
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Frank,
Notn really on a links lcourse as this was the stretch of land between the town and sea that was naturally undulating and but of little agricultural value.
Cheers
Andy
Dear Andy,
I’d love to see your work, but as a third generation writer in Hollywood I urge you to have a script: not what you’re going to say today, but what you’ll show next year.
Have a plan. No need to stick to it, but the saying is, “If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll end up where you don’t want to be.”
Cheers!
David Thompson
Andy’s Reply:
Hi David,
Fantastic advice.
This blog was about seeing whether there was any interest and now I have to set out a plan, like you say this is a must.
All the best
Andy
Hi Andy, i think it’s a fine idea if anything Andy it be a laugh so go enjoy yourself. Ive been to St Andrews delivering the buggies, toilets etc for various events and have walked the course, (i will play it one day) it looks fantastic, the fish supper was’nt bad either. I am playing the Brabazon and PGA at the Belfry next month so I think I better take plenty of balls, anyway take care mate.
regards Guy
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Guy,
I think you’re right it will be a laugn and something I will enjoy doing.
Enjoy the Belfry!
Cheers
Andy
.
yeah that would be great.would definately watch whatever you show.thanks Andy
Andy’s Reply:
That’s very kind of you to say Lee.
All the best.
Andy
Great idea Andy. My wife and I are so ate up with golf! You should have no problem finding sponsors. The vacation planner is a must. Cold here in the midwest USA, no golfing, bummer. Martin Hill
Andy’s Reply:
Thanks Martin
The vacation planner is a good one, for instance I am going on a golf holiday to Devon in the Summer and really need a local to tell me where to play.
Cheers
Andy
As I have no expectations of going to the mecca of golf, I have no thoughts for or against your ideas.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Howard,
Thanks for getting back to me.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
I love you site and read everything you send me. Yes get the video’s going sounds a great idea but not too long 3 mins sounds great.
My golf has improved since getting your info and my rules have improved also. My handicap has come down by 9 strokes in less than a year. I have only been playing for 3 years and I can’t get enough of the game.
At 64 I feel I am doing OK but I have played a lot of sports but wish I had taken this wonderful game up earlier.
New Zealand at present is just wonderful for golf come over and enjoy
Susan from Kiwi Land
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Susan,
Lovely to hear from you.
I have plans to visit New Zealand in the next year or two as I have some close friends there.
3 minutes seems to be the common opinion.
Thanks for your comments.
Kind Regards
Andy
😛
Most Overseas Golf travellers to whom I talk have played at St Andrews, love to see it.
Do it Andy, do it
Andy’s Reply:
Thanks for your vote of confidence Barry!
I will get on the case.
Cheers
Andy
Happy Burns Night to you also. I will be having a sip either of my Ardbeg, Caol Ila, Macallan, or Lagavulin–not sure as of now. It is a little warm here.
Views of the “Old Course” from tee box to green, shot by shot, would be nice to see. Have not been fortunate enough to play it yet. Will try again in May. I have played the “Old New Course” My Senior Pastor is from Scotland so I am learning the language!
” O Wad some power the giftie gie us to see oursel’s as ithers see us”
Guid cheerio the nou!
George
Andy’s Reply:
George,
Thanks for your feedback.
The New Course is fantastic as well – often a harder challenge than the Open Course, certainly not so many bail out areas.
All the best.
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
Happy Rabbie Burns nigh’ ta ya, as well, laddie. i’ll be celebrating in Columbus, Ohio for the 10th yr. in a row. It’s a great time. Good Haggis as well. Great Scotch, it goes on till the wee hrs. o’ th’ mornin’. I’ll think o’ ya’ as we sing Auld Lang Syne.
Great idea about video…etc. about St. Andrews. Probably lots of spots that golfers and non golfers(non golfers, what an awful thought) would be intrigued with. I have an idea for a host for the show since I’ve done TV and radio before. The travel would be welcome. Also have an idea about a show for the average golfer, since almost all of us are.
Keep up the good work, and I’ll be looking forward to your next e-mail. You should be toasting to Rabbie about right now, I would guess.
Andy’s Brown:
Hi Rob,
Sounds like you will have a great time!
Looks like its thumbs up for the video show.
Cheers
Andy
Andy, Looking forward to your video & commentary on St. Andrews and other sites. Planning on coming to visit sometime this year if my wife’s blood tests turn out OK. Will write and let you know when/if we come.
Happy 250th Robert Burns. Your words live on like they were written yesterday!
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Mike,
I look forward to hearing from you.
I hope everything works out OK for your wife.
Kind Regards
Andy
Hi Andy sounds excellent have always wanted to play some of the really famous courses, how about playing, say the road hole from your prospective ie,amateur and showing us what the pros have to contend with from the back tees on some of these courses, must be really frightening. As its a golf show, not really interested in shopping items the shopping channel is for that surely?
Keep swinging
John
Andy’s Reply:
Hi John,
Many thanks for your great feedback.
I will take it on board.
Cheers
Andy
Great idea Andy. Go for it!
Andy’s Reply:
Cheers Patrick
I will love to have a chance to come into contact with the ‘home of golf’ St Andrews albeit in 3-D pictures.
Please proceed, although I have a problem that I have not been able to successfully open the demos you send me.
You are a wonderful person.
I now play off 14 from 22 ever since I joined your helping programme.
Albert Shoko
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Albert,
Many thanks for your kind words, they are much appreciated.
Best wishes
Andy
andy,
I’m an american living in Ireland and love the golf here. I am looking forward to the time to get to Scotland and have a round or ten! Actually have a friends daughter staying with us for the week from the University In St. Andrews. She says The Rule is awsome.! I think 3 mins everyday would be a brilliant way to show it.. I have some experience in this area.
cheers.
e j carr
Andy’s Reply:
Yes The Rule, formerly The Gin House is a great place to hang out and offers free wireless.
Thanks for your feedback.
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
My golf course is under a metre of snow. It would be wonderful to watch a few videos of your area, while I wait for the first signs of spring.
Keep up the great work. ( Its not really a job, is it?)
Cheers
Ross
Andy’s Reply
Hi Ross,
I don’t like to think of it as a job!
I guess you are playing other sports while your course is under snow.
All the best.
Cheers
Andy
I would love to see a series of videos of how each hole should be played.St Andrews will always be the home of golf to is Aussies.
Andy’s Reply:
I will see what I can do.
Thanks for leaving a comment.
Cheers
Andy
Now, here’s something we can surely get together on. If it works out that you do the videos, which is a fantastic idea, I will do a feature post about them/you on http://www.SuiteGolfTravel.blogspot.com
I agree with someone above that you do have a lot of great ideas. Keep them coming. They only enhance the golfing world.
Alan Hammond
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Alan,
That would be fantastic Alan.
I’m really looking forward to this and will keep you posted
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
Once I was in Glasgow on business but never got to visit the old course. It is unlikey that I’ll ever get to play St. Andrews, so having you record the sites and sounds would be great. I love the old game and Scotland. Maybe it has to do with my name, Robert Bruce. I play Hickory golf as much as I am with modern clubs…..maybe more. With your help and the hickory sticks, I’m enjoying golf more than ever.
Best,
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Robert,
Hickory golf! That’s fantastic as I was shown around the St Andrews Golf Company earlier in the week,they continue to use the traditional skills to create hickory clubs.
Many thanks for your comment.
Cheers
Andy
Great idea, Andy! A weekly vid showcasing the course and surrounding area would be fun and interesting.
Andy’s Reply:
Many thanks for taking the time to reply Gary.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy:
I accept readily your kind offer to post your personal videos of Scotland’s marvelous golf courses on your web site. It may be as close as I get to playing them although I still harbor the hope of “crossing the pond” one day to play them first hand. The closest I can get to that right now is playing some of the replica courses around Greater Toronto.
Wooden Sticks has the Postage Stamp hole at Troon and the St Andrews’ 1st and 18th holes to whet one’s appetite. Go to http://www.woodensticks.com/ to see how close (via heli-video) they come to the real thing. FYI, I made par at all three of the replicas in one round last season using your starter moves – early wrist break on backswing and the weight shift to initiate the downswing. So I am keen
Mind you my getting to the crucible of golf depends, in part, on how much my game improves as a result of incorporating all of your four secrets to a good golf swing! That’s my agenda for this coming season – once the record snowfall here melts away in May. In the meantime, I content myself with my golf dreams and using Rui’s conditioning and strengthening routines.
All the best, Gerry
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Gerry,
It would be great if you could one day cross the pond!
Good luck with your golf and great to hear Rui’s exercises are helping.
Cheers
Andy
Andy, I would certainly enjoy a player’s view of St. Andrews. Not wishing you any bad luck but I would like to see a shot of of one of those bunkers.
Thanks for doing this. Bill
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Bill,
I will see if I can get one of them!
Cheers
Andy
If you’re looking for gems of courses to show in video, then why not look at Port Mahomack and Tarbet Ness on the opposite side of the Dornoch Firth. Or, if you cross the water to Northern Ireland, Whitehead Golf course, with its stunning views to Belfast AND Ailsa Craig, or maybe even Carrickfergus Golf Club with its own share of tricky holes.
The idea is a great one!
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Michael,
Many thanks for your feedback.
Great ideas – I can see myself having a ball.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
Having been to St, Andrews and played the course I would be delighted to view whatever you may have to show.
Don
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Don,
I appreciate your feedback.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
With the frustrations and headaches that I am getting from golf, it will be
very interesting to know more about St. Andrews and the related stories about golf.
Regards,
Tony
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Tony,
Thanks for your comment.
I hope to give you many stories.
Kind Regards
Andy
I’m now at an age and position in life to never be able to see nor play at St. Andrews. Forty years ago it was one of my “family vacation” goals to play golf, video a fly over of villages & coast, have a pint(s) at the local pub, a game of darts, and lots of conversation with the locals on their interests.
I enjoy TV golf as presented today but so much of the course’s and/or locals personalities in the area are overlooked. Would be very interesting.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Ed,
..so maybe that is where I can be a little different and capture some of the magic!
I love my darts as well!
Cheers
Andy
andy: go for it
Andy’s Reply:
Thanks Joe!
i am not really sure i would have the time to visit it much mesel’ and of course many courses do the thing themselves already, but i am absolutely certain you’d have a great time…..
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Anne,
Many thanks for your feedback.
Cheers
Andy
hi andy……
what a great idea {crackers}….i am one of the lucky ones who played
the old course in 1988 for $25 canadian…..in fact i paid the caddy
{wee ernie} the same amount……
we became instant friends…..i have played there several times at
considerably more cost …..anyway, if your followers want to stay
halfway to carnoustie try “THE FORT” at broughty ferry…….
to get the history of st. andrews may i suggest taking us through the graveyard first..
cheers richard
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Richard,
I will definitely check The Fort out- many thanks for the tip.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
A very novel way to see these historical towns and courses. Some of these places I’ve been to and others I still look forward to seeing but each is steeped in golfing history. Your efforts will be much appreciated.
Ray
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Ray,
Many thanks for taking the time to leave a comment.
It is much appreciated.
Cheers
Andy
Good work, Andy. I’m a farmer from Kentland, Indiana; USA.and I will say the Old Course, fascinates me. And the old country song,(does it have a name?), is culture at its best, much better than the the electronic stuff we have to listen to over here, now!!!
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Ed,
I hope to provide some video very soon.
Have a greet weekend.
Cheers
Andy
Andy, sounds like a great idea. I would love to see the interior of the Old Course Club house and some of the other club houses as well.
Thanks for sharing the Burns Night clip!! Excellent.
Don
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Don,
I will see what I can do.
Cheers
Andy
I’d love to see clips of not only the golf courses but also the town. I visited St. Andrew’s with a school and golfing mate 41 years ago and I’d love you to bring back some memories. If I remember correctly there were “only” four courses: The Old, The New,The Eden and The Jubilee. The Jubilee was three shillings (15p) per round, The Eden and The New were six shillings (30p). We played each of those but, as 17 year old Yorkshire lads, could not run to the 12 shillings and six pence (62.5p) it would have cost us to play The Old Course!! How I rue the fact we didn’t stump up the dosh because I think it might just cost us a bit more nowadays – and a lengthy wait for a tee time I dare say. One day ……………………….sigh.
Happy Burns’ Night
John.
Andy’s Reply:
Wow John I was about 1 then!
There are now 7 – Strathtyrum, Balgove and Castle to add to the ones you name. Plus there is the Dukes 2 miles out of town.
You bet – it is a little bit more than 12 shillings and six pence (62.5p) to play the Old Course.
Unfortunately there are only a few guaranteed ways of getting a tee time on the Old Course.
Bear in mind around 50 per cent of all starting times over the year on the Old COurse are put into the daily ballot (lottery) which is drawn every day for next day’s play. The Saturday draw is for Monday play.
Obviously if someone is travelling to St Andrews with the specific goal to play the Old Course I recommend booking well in advance.
As you will see from this page:
http://www.standrews.org.uk/golf/book_golf/advanced_old.html
The high season gets booked up very quickly, though often low season and shoulder season times are available.
Having said that here are the ways to guarantee a tee time on the Old Course without entering the daily ballot.
The first and most expensive is through a company called the “Old Course Experience”.
http://www.standrews.org.uk/golf/book_golf/old_course_experience.html
They actually have a worldwide exclusive contract to guarantee tee-times on the Old Course, St Andrews.
The other far cheaper way to book a guaranteed tee time is by making a reservation in advance with the St Andrews Links Trust. As mentioned before it is best to do this well in advance.
Specific information can found on this page:
http://www.standrews.org.uk/golf/the_courses/old_course_bookings.html
Key information to take note of includes:
A request for a time between April and October must be accompanied by a request for a time on one of the Trust’s other 18 hole courses.
On the application you need to:
1. Nominate a Lead Golfer with a home address for all correspondence. (We will only accept instructions from the Lead Golfer).
2. State the dates you wish to play (after checking course closures).
3. A maximum of two times a day may be applied for (8 golfers max).
I also recommend reading the PDF documents on this page:
http://www.standrews.org.uk/golf/book_golf/advanced_old2009.html
The Trust also allocates a limited number of Old Course starting times for the use of members of the St Andrews Hotels & Guesthouses Association.
http://www.stayinstandrews.co.uk/
For further information on making your reservation at any of the 7 courses at St Andrews, it is best to contact:
Reservations Office, St Andrews Links Trust, Pilmour House, St Andrews Fife KY16 9SF Scotland
Tel +44 (0)1334 466666; Fax +44 (0)1334 477036 reservations@standrews.org.uk
Opening Times : Monday-Friday 9am-5pm (Thursday from 9.30am)
http://www.standrews.org.uk/golf/the_courses/old_course_bookings.html
Courses other than The Old Course at St Andrews can be booked online using this site:
http://www.linksnet.co.uk/
For the most comprehensive guide to golf in Scotland please fill in your details here:
http://golf.visitscotland.com/site_wide/misc/brochure
I have a copy on my coffee table and it always inspires me to play other courses in Scotland.
This guide is extremely useful when organising a golf holiday to The Home of Golf. The Official Guide to Golf in Scotland contains an A to Z golf course listing with contact details and information for all of Scotland’s courses. Plus information on the six golf regions of Scotland, practice facilities, golf passes, travel tips, events, accommodation listings and information on golf tour operators.
You can also sign up to their email newsletter here:
http://golf.visitscotland.com/site_wide/misc/enewsletter-signup
I also highly recommend this list of links to help anyone organising their travel to this beautiful part of the world.
http://golf.visitscotland.com/links/
All the best John.
Kind Regards
Andy
Hi Andy.
Sounds like a great and ambitious plan on your part. Almost made it to St. Andrews in 1982 but had to skip due to some bad weather and my lack of experience driving on the “wrong” side of the road! Would love to see anything and for whatever duration is simplest. Thanks Gord
Andy’s Reply:
Great to hear from you Gordon.
I hope to film the first episode soon.
Cheers
Andy
:shock:Andy. I’ve had to lie down after just watching exercise 1 in the new keep fit regime!! I’m lucky to be a Dornoch member, so would be good to see you. Videos would be great, but I think a lot of work for you. I’ll join you in a dram to the bard. Was Robbie a golfer I wonder? All the best fae 09.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Nick,
Great to hear from you.
It will be a lot of work but also a lot of fun.
Obviously getting on some of the private courses would be great, I will have to write some good old fashioned letters!
Cheers
Andy
Andy-
Love your idea. I would enjoy commentary and video of the courses, pubs, and scenery in Scotland. Maybe some video of your favorite holes? Golf in the US is quite different and sterile to your links-type courses. I would enjoy seeing the “hidden gem” courses as well as the better-known tracks. Good luck.
John
Andy’s Reply:
Hi John,
Great feedback, I’m starting to plan the first show already.
Cheers
Andy
I had he pleasure to visit Scotland and play golf in May of 2007. Loved it and would enjoy becoming more knowledgeable about St. Andrews.
Richard
Andy’s Reply:
Looks like you are one of many who would like to learn more about St Andrews.
Many thanks for your feedback.
Cheers
Andy
Yeah, Andy, having never played St. Andrews or any of the other gems in Scotland, but only dreamed of doing so, I’d like to see them from your perspective. Of course, I’d also be interested in finding out where the good food is and where to hoist a cold one (or semi-cold or warm one for that matter).
Ed
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Ed,
Many thanks for your feedback.
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
A great idea for those of us over here in the US who may never approach the dream of visiting Scotland and playing golf on this grand old stage. Luckily we are able to tap into some of your fine beverages, so my hope would be that, as with the original format for the game, you titer the length of these presentations based upon the time it should take one to sip through a generous aliquot of Laphproaig or Talkisker. Thanks again for all of the helpful information you pass on and have a great day.
Cheers,
Dan
Andy’s Reply:
Great idea Dan, will definitely take it on board.
Cheers
Andy
Dear Andy; I recently attended a Burn’s dinner,the address to the haggis was given by an old time scot.He was told that for his effort he would receive a skiendoo, which I made. It consisted of a dove on ski’s with ski poles under it’s wings and a toque on it’s head and a scarf.It got a big laugh.Since then I have made six to go back to Scotland.
Have a nice day Orie
Andy’s Reply:
Sounds like fun Orie.
Good to hear from you.
Cheers
Andy
Andy, it’s a great idea, I will certainly look forward to videos of this great course.
You might also include some of the history.
Having read ‘Tommy’s Honour’, there is lots to tell. What a golfer he was.
I would recommend this book to all, none golfers included.
Have dram for me.
Cheers, Brian.
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Brian,
Will definitely look up “Tommy’s Honour”
I will definitely include some history.
Cheers
Andy
I love St. Andrews – every aspect of it save the weather on occasion! I think a weekly session would be an excellent guide to my next visit which I hope will be during this year. I don’t know Dornoch and would welcome an introduction and while I know a number of Scottish courses the chance to learn more would be good.
Good ideas!
Bob
Andy’s Reply:
Cheers Bob for the feedback.
Much appreciated.
Andy
Excellent idea Andy, Go for it. Good luck and best wishes.
Andy’s Reply:
I’m getting a lot of positive feedback so it looks like a good idea!
Many thanks for your feedback.
Cheers
Andy
Thanks Andy
It would be good to see the Old Course again. The first time I played it it cost half a crown – from that you can work out that it is unlikely that I will ever see it again.
Take care mate
Jimbo
Andy’s Reply:
Great to hear from you Jimbo
I hope to remind you of some of the memories!
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
Can only ski here in Canada at this time and still another three months before we can tee it up, but would definitely enjoy viewing the show from the old course. Thanks.
Robert
Andy’s Reply:
Thanks for your feedback Robert!
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy,
I would like to see anything about St. Andrews, as at 82 yrs., I will probably never get to see it in person. I think our Newport Country Club is somewhat similar to St. Andrews, in that they leave the course O’Natural. I always watched the British Open, and always enjoy it when they have it at St. Andrews
Yours Truly, Joseph Reis
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Joseph,
That is part of my mission – to help give those who are unlikely to ever come here an idea of the place.
I know the Open is at Turnberry this year but already I am excited about next year!
Cheers
Andy
Andy that would be brill,but please dont forget the Himalayas, that’s the only golf I can get the Missus involved in when up in Bonnie Scortland.
Now I’ll get back to me “Tobormory”
Ps Let me have yout address or even a forwarding address and I’ll send you a CD you will not be disapointed in.wont tell you what it is but it was compiled by a very good friend of mine from Scotlad (and that’s a clue)
Ray
Andy’s Reply
Cheers Ray I have just sent you an email.
You can’t beat the Himalayas, though in the Summer the queue can be a mile long!
All the best.
Andy
Andy: Grand idea. My wife would appreciate it as well, having spent some time there years ago. In addition to golf courses, pubs and hotels, perhaps some coverage of local boutiques, shops, castles and such. Thanks.
Andy’s Reply:
Steve – great idea I’m going to have a fashion slot!
I just want the whole thing to be a lot of fun, can’t wait to get out with my camcorder.
Cheers
Andy
Where do you get all the ideas and energy Andy? Keep up the good work. Anything to do with the Eden Tournament would catch attention. Lots of us, and families, come from far away for this great amateur event.
Alan, Colchester
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Alan,
Thanks for your idea.
Keep them coming.
Cheers
Andy
great idea!
would give us snowbound northerners something to smile about…
Bill
Andy’s Reply’s
Bill if that’s the case I’m definitely doing it!
There was a frost here this morning but no snow.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Andy-Hapy Burns night to you. at least you are in the right place to celebrate it . Being a jock in England means Burns night can be a fairly friendless event, but I will have a drop of the amber nectar tonight and drink a toast to Rabbie and yourself.
Like you I am very passionate about St Andrews.It has a magic that’s difficult to explain to people so any footage you circulate will I am sure be very well received . Go ahead and spread the gospel of St Andrews and Scottish Golf.
Andy’s Reply:
Ian I always love to hear my father in law quote Rabbie and that can be anytime of year, it just takes a shot ofthe amber nectar!
Thanks for the feedback
Cheers
Andy
Andy
Sounds good ! give it a go , look forward to it.
Joan
Andy’s Reply:
Hi Joan
Many thanks for your feedback.
Cheers
Andy
do it….15-30 min a week….you might also include Paradise….aka Ireland …in a few of the segments….I play a number of courses when I go home to see familyMidlands-Westmeath)…played Glasson in November….on the Shannon and truly beautiful….as you might expect 🙂
Andy’s Reply:
Top advice Jake – much appreciated.
Cheers
Andy
My wife wants to see a video of the town itself, the shoppes etc. I want to see inside the clubhouse at St. Andrews and average, non professional golfers playing the course. My wife and I hope to be at this years Open and possibly meet you Andy. What a great idea!
Andy’s Reply:
Leonard many thanks for your feedback.
It might be tough getting inside the clubhouse but you never know!
So you will be at Turnberry? – else is going?
Cheers
Andy
Andy,
With regard to your idea of sharing views and stories about St Andrews and Scotland and its hidden gems and customs I can tell you that I am in favour. I humbly suggest say a 15 min. piece once a forthnight or month as it will take a good bit of work on your behalf.
I have subsribed to your “Four Swing Secrets” and just yesterday to the Rules. I play off 15 here in Arklow Co Wicklow and I “fill” in the Arklow Golf Club website at http://www.arklowgolflinks.com.
I do believe that you are onto an interactive forum for all golfers the world over with your enthusiasm and sharing nature.
Enjoy Burns Night and best wishes for continuing success to you from a fellow celt
Liam
PS Barry Rhodes video pieces are very good on the Rules.
Andy’s Reply:
Laim – your course at Arklow looks stunning, everyone should check out the website and particular the photos at the top of the pages.
All the best.
Andy
Looking forward to your clips on St. Andrews. They may bring closer the dream of one day visiting that wonderful region.
Thank you for sharing The Burns Night clip. I have passed in on to several friends for their enjoyment.
Stan
Andy’s Reply:
Many thanks Stan – much appreciated.
Andy,
I look forward to your emails every day, whilst I get most of the “rules” questions correct there are still some I get wrong so if they ever crop up on course I will now know the correct ruling and maybe win a hole or two!
Enjoyed the video with Sam singing (or wailing!) I met Sam once many years ago at FoxHills GC in Chertsey – I had been playing with John O’Leary (Irish Open Champion and Ryder Cup Star) but Sam won the tournament.
I like the idea of a short video on St Andrews, I used to come to watch the Dunhill before they changed the format.
Cheers and Lang may yer lum reek or however you say it!
Derek
Andy’s Reply:
Many thanks for your feedback Derek. I love watching the Dunhill though it can get a tad chilly!
Yes, that would be an interesting show. Maybe 15-30 minutes long. Maybe could have a tip or two on playing the unique shots links golf offers. And if you put the lass on who shows up after Sam Torrence, the show might last forever!
Andy’s Reply:
Great feedback Bob! Now I have to look for a co presenter!
Go for it Andy.
I would be delighted to see St Andrews through your lens.
I should declare an interest though, as I was brought up in Ladybank, and my wife and daughter both have degrees from St A, so I am rather fond of the place.
But how do you propose to make any money out of this?
Andy’s Reply:
Thanks for getting back to me David.
Ladybank – now there’s a fantastic course!
Money – If it is successful and I get lots of “eye balls” as they say in advertising and marketing circles then I’m sure I can get a sponsor quite easily. To begin with though I will do it because I have a passion for golf, St Andrews and video.
Cheers
Andy
:lol:Andy, Enjoyed the testimonial with the guy who couldn’t say thoughts and had the biggest elbow bend I’ve ever seen, Was it a joke? Regards, Bob Furlong
Andy’s Reply:
You reminded me I need to ask for some more video testimonials. Still need to upload the ones for Sept through to December 2008.
Andy: I think you have a great idea and I would enjoy it tremendously. I will be looking forward to it. Carol
Andy’s Reply:
Many thanks for taking the time to give me your feedback. It is much appreciated Carol