Bridge of Allan
Friday p.m. (9 holes)

Bridge of Allan golf course requires a climb on several holes, but the golfer is rewarded with spectacular views over the Ochill Hills, the Forth Valley and north to the mountains of Tayside. Old Tom Morris designed this course in 1894 and it has stood the test of time well.
The first is an extremely challenging hole. A par three, it is 228-yards uphill with a stone dyke about 20 yards in front of the green - there are very few golfers who can carry the dyke! Lay up short of the dyke and leave yourself enough space to chip over the wall to the flag. Three par 3 holes and a number of blind shots make the course quite a challenge for anyone playing it the first time. There were certainly a few stories to tell at the end of the round, and many would have welcomed the opportunity to play a second nine in an attempt to improve on the first.

Still, the prospect of beer and curry beckoned.... before traveling on to our hotel in Aberfoyle, the Covenanters Inn. A hotchpotch of styles from neo-Tudor to mock Scottish Baronial, the building had definitely seen better days.

A warren of outbuildings straddling a hill, the most commendable facility seemed to be the (free) pool table. The terrace outside had stunning views of the surrounding valley, but midges quickly drove us back inside. The short stroll to the village of Aberfoyle meant it was not long before we were savouring the local nightlife. Eventually we settled in what could loosely be termed a Sports Bar, and after some frantic book-making which, coincidentally, saw heavy betting on the eventual champ, we sauntered up the hill to sleep off the physical exertions of the day and mentally prepare ourselves for the big event.