And speaking of Scotland…
The birthplace of golf is in the lush country of Scotland and naturally it boasts some of the world’s oldest and finest courses.
The official rules of golf were established in 1744 but historical documents note the game had been played in Scotland for centuries.
King James IV of Scotland (1473-1513) became known as the world’s first golfing monarch. In 1552, golfer Mary Queen of Scots brought the game to France while she was studying there and likely coined the word “caddy,” from the shortened French words “le cadet” or “the boy” in English.
The first golf course – the Old Course at St Andrews (SA) – was established in 1552 in Fife, Scotland. The first golf competition was played at SA in 1852, and the rules of modern golf largely stem from that revered institution, including the 18 holes on a standard course.
Today, SA is a members-only club, hosts PGA TOURs, and visitors (with a handicap certificate) can register for a tee time.
By Hollen Wheeler; courtesy photo
