Formed in 1845 Panmure is one of the oldest clubs in the world. After running through two clubhouses (the second which is now the home of Ladies Panmure GC and third oldest house in the world) and the congestion of Monifieth Links, in 1899 Panmure decided to set up shop at Barry Links, adjacent to Monifieth. Some members chose to stay and created the Grange GC, which still exists. The club nearly decided to move to Carnoustie, but I suspect the prospect of owning their links and avoiding possible overcrowding was enough to the settle the issue. R Duff, the contractor responsible for the then recent construction of the Old Tom Morris designs St Andrews New and Muirfield was selected for the job. Old Tom did survey the land two years previously and it is likely he designed the original Panmure course. However, there is some doubt in the matter. As was often the case, James Braid made some changes in 1922. Mackenzie & Ebert did some work in 2012. I believe at least the 8th was moved left away from the caravan park. The two famous paps were removed at this time; possibly because they no longer made sense for the newly aligned fairway. In the not too distant past the 14th green was moved left, away from the 15th tees.
Panmure is known for being Ben Hogan’s practice ground for the 1953 Open held at Carnoustie. Hogan had the 1953 Masters and US Open titles in his back pocket, but thought it best to arrive two weeks early to practice with the 1.62-inch ball. Hogan slowly warmed to the Open and found himself tied for the lead after three rounds. A crushing 68 final round saw him win comfortably and as it turned out it was his last major victory. While Hogan never returned to the Open, he did leave a lasting impression on Panmure. It is said that Hogan named Panmure’s 6th as his favourite hole when asked by the press after the Open. Hogan suggested a right greenside bunker and the club took him to heart….Hogan’s bunker is still there.
Not dissimilar to Formby, Panmure commences and finishes in the plains; flat terrain. Much is often said about the opening and closing stretches, but they aren't poor holes. I rather like 16 & 18, but let us start on the 1st. A smidge over 300 yards, the opener is a good how do you do.
The legs are stretched a bit more for the three-shot 2nd, but we still feel welcome.
The dogleg right third brings the trees into full play.
At this point I did begin to wonder. I saw a ton of trees, not over-interesting greens and decidely heavier turf than one expects for a links. Although, regardless of the type of course one labels Panmure, the turf is beautiful. About the same length as the third without the pronounced dogleg, the 4th begins the attitude change.
The green is more engaging.
4th green from the 5th tee.
More to follow.
Ciao