Peebles Golf Club - Friday afternoon

Proceedings got under way at 4pm on a wet and windy Friday afternoon - the typical weather we are used to seeing in June - at Peebles golf course. Peebles Golf Club was founded in 1892 although the present course was first opened in 1908. The present Kirklands course (6,138 yards, par 70) was remodelled in 1933/34 by Harry Colt, designer of, among many great courses, Wentworth. Peebles is a championship course, having played host in the past to the Scottish Boys Team Championship, among others. As the club's website warns visitors: "Bring a sweater and your rain-gear just in case. It is all part of the challenge of golfing in Scotland." In the driving rain and wind, the first hole, a par 3 at 175 yards, was certainly a challenge. The first group to tee off started off selecting 4 and 5 irons, but by the time the final group came to play, many rescue clubs and even 3-woods had been taken out of the bag. The course commentary provided on the website was spot on: "A good long iron or lofted wood required to find the target. Even then a difficult two putts are required to secure par on the sloping green." Only half the players managed a net par three.

Eventually the weather turned kinder, though the altitude of the course ensured a fairly consistent stiff breeze. We enjoyed some invigorating climbs with wonderful views, and some very interesting holes…certainly a course to revisit in better conditions.