By Mike Stevens
Playing hickory golf in Scotland is the ultimate for anyone into that form of the game. I have had the great fortune to have participated in several World Hickory Opens since 2005. It is a fantastic experience and one that is very affordable.
This year the tournament will take place at the Panmure Golf Club, right down the road from Carnoustie, which hosted the Senior British Open this year. It is the course where Ben Hogan practiced for his win in 1953. Panmure hosted the 2014 WHO, won by Sandy Lyle, and proved to be a wonderful test. Participants stay at the Carnoustie Golf Hotel, which always puts on a grand fair.
We would love to have more Americans join our current band of eight players on the trip. Not only do you get to play in the WHO, but you will be eligible to play in the Triangular match for Team USA against Sweden and a World Select team following the WHO.
If you are thinking that the cost is outrageous, I can tell you that you can do the entire week for less than $3,000. I will be glad to advise you on how to do it. The tournament dates are Monday, Oct. 10 to Friday, Oct. 14. Most of us leave here on Friday, Oct. 7 and hook up at Edinburgh Airport on Saturday morning, get our cars and head up to the hotel.
If you would like to come along, feel free to contact me (ams1127@msn.com) and I’ll help you plan the trip. Check out the WHO website at www.worldhickoryopen.com. It is an experience you won’t forget.