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Glorious mid November conditions
Reflections on 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025
The 2024 Scottish golf season brought me plenty of joy, even if the trophy cabinet remained relatively undisturbed.
The real reward was the chance to experience some of Scotland’s fantastic golf courses in the company of fellow passionate enthusiasts of this great game
I had the privilege of playing some exceptional courses this year:
Dumbarnie, Panmure, Crail, Craigielaw, Goswick ( including a fantastic history lesson on the lost links of Lindisfarne ).
A standout was a fantastic “ double header “ at both Comrie and St Fillans on the same day.
Thanks to the generosity of 1457 Society friends, I also enjoyed unforgettable rounds at Cruden Bay and the iconic West Links at North Berwick.
The Highs and Lows of Competition
As always, my competitive scores ran the gamut – hot,cold and everything in between.
My handicap danced between an early season low of 4.8 and a closing figure of 6.7
This year also marked a “big birthday” for me, accompanied by a selection of persistent, niggling injuries – a golfer’s rite of passage perhaps!
Memorable Moments
Attending The Open Championship at Royal Troon was a highlight of the year. I made several new golf friends and savoured every moment; surrounded by the sport’s best male players.
Later in the season I braved the infamous Scottish summer weather to watch the world’s top women golfers compete at the AIG Womens Open played over The Old Course – a test of skill and grit for players and spectators alike!
Preparing for a Stronger 2025
As we wrapped up the year, I set my sights on a fitter, stronger 2025 season.
The winter months are no excuse to slack off, even when courses are closed and mats and temporary greens dominate play.
Here’s The Plan:
1. Boost overall fitness
2. Focus on golf specific strength & flexibility
3. Commit to a programme of lessons
4. Improve nutrition
5. Stay disciplined but enjoy the journey
So I’ve joined my local leisure centre; which just happens to overlook my home golf course and embarked on my mission. The fitness staff designed a personal programme, uploaded it to the app ( naturally! ) and sent me on my way.
To my surprise-and that of everyone who knows me – I’m actually enjoying it!
Four weeks in, I’ve completed 15 visits, tackled my first ever Spin class and found a new obsession with indoor rowing. Alongside some swimming and several steam room & sauna sessions, I’m feeling ready to embrace the New Year – even if the festive indulgences of turkey, trifle and a glass or two of claret have slowed me down a touch!
Looking Ahead
The 2025 golf season promises to be another exciting chapter.
In March I am kicking things off with a day in Fife playing at The Golf House Club, Elie and visiting The Hickory Golf Workshop.
Mid season I’m off to the Isle of Arran ( ferries permitting ) for a couple of days taking on the magical courses of Shiskine and Corrie.
Come September, I’ll have the privilege of teeing it up at the highly anticipated new course Old Petty as well as the renowned modern links Castle Stuart; both now part of Cabot Highlands near Inverness.
For those craving real adventure, a possible trip with the non-golfing Mrs Brown to the islands of Skye, South Uist,Harris and Lewis – with a finale at Dornoch – is in the works.
Watch this space!
Until Next Time
As I write, my home course remains closed due to freezing conditions, but I’m eagerly counting down to the 2025 Scottish golf season.
I’m determined to make it a year of fitter, stronger and more enjoyable golf.
Stay tuned – it’s going to be a great season.