by Kenneth Imrie

Why go to the Outer Hebrides? Not sure where it is? Well, golf at Askernish should be more than enough reason to visit the string of islands to the north-west of Scotland . Fortunately for me I was invited to a wedding. Everyone loves a wedding especially when it gave me the opportunity to fly to the most under-played but most written about of all the Scottish links courses.  

I emailed in advance and was told by Ralph (club chairman) to see Donald (club captain) when I get there. If you don't know the history of Askernish then here's the overview - designed by Old Tom in the 1890's and officially reopened on the 16^th of August 2008 . In between, well, lots of nothing followed by several years of unpaid hard work by the good people of have brought the course back to life. Askernish is the Cinderella Story of golf projects and if you have the where with all - or the perfect excuse - to be there then you will absolutely love it.  

With the clubhouse finished I don't know if Donald and his dog Scot can be bought but if they can, play your round with them and you'll learn more about Askernish than any golf column can ever convey and you will develop the same love and devotion for the place that these guys do. 

Contact: -
Askernish Golf Club, Askernish, Isle of South Uist, Outer Hebrides , Scotland , HS8 5SS  

T: 07900 387 167
W: http://www.askernishgolfclub.com/
E: info@askernishgolfclub.com

Greenfees: -
£20 at present, possibly £25-£30 season 2009

Getting there: -
Flights: British Airways www.ba.com to Benbecula, a 45-minute flight from Glasgow  

Ferry: Caledonian MacBrayne www.calmac.co.uk/uist to Lochboisdale or Lochmaddy

Car Hire: I hired a car from Maclennan Bros Car Hire - Contact 01870 602 191