Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf 49 1920s and those were among the most significant changes over the past century. Some of the charming characteristics include holes designed by these greats. Braid’s par-3, 180-yard 9th hole, with its undulating green protected by large bunkers and dunes and Old Tom’s par-4, 396-yard 12th hole which requires an accurate approach shot to carry the Buddon Burn guarding the front of the green. Today the course measures 6,551 yards, plays to a par 70, and combines the best elements of links and heathland, with tight fairways, challenging carries and undulating greens. True to links golf, holes mostly play firm and fast and the rolling fairways wind through dunes and pine trees, leading to greens that are protected by proper Scottish bunkers. Hogan would never play in the Open again, but his legacy at Panmure remains. The sixth hole, a 414-yard par 4, stroke index 1, was Hogan’s favourite hole and is named after the great man. He suggested to the club that a strategically placed pot bunker should be built to the front and right of the green. It was and it is still known as Hogan’s bunker. The other legendary story from Hogan’s Panmure experience came on the par-4, 401yard 17th hole. Hogan liked the green and spent much time putting there but he wanted it to run quicker than it did. So, he asked William Falconer, the head greenkeeper, if the mower could shave the green a tad tighter. Falconer said it was possible, but pointed to the mower and mentioned that Hogan was free to do it himself. He did, and word is that he later returned the mower to Falconer in pristine condition after insisting on cleaning it first. Panmure has hosted many prestigious championships over the years ranging from national amateur tournaments to final qualifying for The Open Championship. Recently, the club has hosted regional qualifying for The Open, the R&A Girls Amateur Championship, final qualifying for the AIG Women’s Open and the stroke play qualifying for the R&A Boys Amateur Championship. The colorfully clad Doug Sanders advanced through qualifying at Panmure in 1970 and later lost to Jack Nicklaus in an 18-hole playoff with a chance to win the claret jug. Nicklaus shot even-par 72 to clip Sanders by one and earn his second of three Opens. Gary Player, Nick Faldo, Sandy Lyle and Padraig Harrington are a few Open champions who have played at Panmure over the years. The Club’s iconic clubhouse is one of the finest old golf buildings in Scotland and was modelled, both architecturally and spiritually on Royal Calcultta Golf Club. It offers three uniquely charming lounges, perfect for a post round beverage. Hogan never returned to Scotland, and the victory at Carnoustie marked the last major that he’d ever win. The Scots still refer to him as the “Wee Ice Mon” because of his steely demeanor, determination, and ability to perform best under pressure. The Open victory, combined with his presence at Panmure the preceding weeks, were enough for Hogan to remain a legend in the area forever. Panmure remains a private member’s club, but they are delighted to welcome visitors to experience their authentic, classic links. Are you ready to take on the Hogan challenge? Visit https://www.panmuregolfclub.co.uk.
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