St Andrews, Old Course History Tour - 80s Pro Caddie Guide

Engage in an exclusive St Andrews walking tour, accompanied by renowned guide Richard Falconer. Delve into the fascinating history of golf, tracing its origins back to the transformation of the Old Course and its pivotal role as the birthplace of the sport.

A proficient command of the English language is indispensable for participating in these tours. Inefficient communication methods, such as speaking quickly or resorting to translation, are ineffective.

Discover the origins of the game of golf through the historical evolution of the Old Course in St Andrews under the guidance of Richard Falconer, a renowned author, historian, and former professional caddie. Richard will lead you on a chronological journey, exploring the various aspects of the sport and challenging perceptions regarding its age.

As a seasoned author, historian, and 1980s Professional A1 Old Course Caddie, Richard will share insights into the differences between contemporary golfing practices and those of the past, emphasizing the significance of his caddie shack's absence during the Open.

Your exploration will uncover several intriguing elements:

- The story behind Nike's acquisition of a hotel on Golf Place and the establishment of the oldest running golf shop worldwide.
- Insights into early St Andrews golfers, including Allan Robertson, Old Tom Morris, and the originator of the Open Championship.
- Details about the role of Thomas Hamilton, who inadvertently elevated the status of golf.
- An examination of the landmarks integral to the Old Course, tracing the gradual transformation from an organic development phase to the current layout featuring 18 holes.
- Recollections of notable figures associated with St Andrews golf, particularly focusing on Doreen Stubbs, a figure of immense importance within the community.

Throughout your tour, you will learn about technological advancements such as bulletproof windows, rubber roofs, and even the Himalayan landscape. Additionally, you'll engage in activities like having photos taken at the Swilkan Bridge (excluding tournament days) and reliving memories of misjudged shots at Road Hole.

The tour concludes with a visit to the Old Course Jigger Inn, offering panoramic views of the 17th fairway. Refreshments are available there, though they are not included in the tour price.

This comprehensive walking tour encompasses both history and contemporary golfing experiences, making it an enriching experience for anyone interested in golfing heritage.

Additionally, Richards Tours are officially endorsed by acclaimed St Andrews Golf Historian, David Joy.