I don't understand the negative perception of the Renaissance. I wouldn't say it is my favorite course, but I think it's a good test. For me, functionally, there would be very little difference watching a tournament on TV held at Renaissance vs. Gullane or Dundonald. Playing the courses yourself? Sure, massive difference. Watching it on TV? It's a links test enough for the pros that I can't tell a difference. I am all for nitpicking, but we get such little time to watch the pros play on the links that even Tom's "quasi-neo-modern links" test feels precious. I don't want to waste that precious time wishing for something marginally better.

I don't see how the Open going to a course outside of GB&I would do anything positive to their brand. The R&A needs to learn a lesson from the Masters playbook. The Masters, at least in the US is far and away the most profitable golf brand. They have a global brand that stretches to the most remote corners of the sporting world. It would be asinine to argue the Masters should travel to other golf courses. That being said, every year when the Latin America Amateur Championship rolls around, the golf world tunes in to a small course south of the equater to see who will get a shot at a green jacket. I can't imagine how positive ANGC's presence in Latin America and the Pacific has done for their brand. I know the Open has the Open Qualifying Series, but that is still so far removed from the average everyday golfer. I also know they have a presence at Latin America and Asia Pacific Amateur, but, at least to me, their presence is overshadowed by Augusta's. It is possible to grow your brand without throwing your history in the trash. They should lean into what they do best instead of trying to rewrite the script.

Ideal world the Open would stay UK and PGA would go international on occassion. Also really wish Scottish would have a boutique event every 5 years or so when Muirfield is going to be used. Forget par, forget infrastructure. Go to North Berwick or Royal Dornoch or Aberdeen area, or Western Gailes, etc. Give us somewhere coastal most haven't seen thats exciting to watch.

I really enjoy the Scottish Open. It's a National Championship and worthy of the field it attracts. That said, I would like to see it move from Renaissance Club. No disrespect to Tom Doak, trust me on that, but there are so many other links venues in the country - why not a rota for that tournament? The fact that it's a tournament co-sanctioned with PGA and DP Tours probably means no can do. It's all about the money and TV rights, and I do understand that aspect. I would just love to see the "smaller" courses get some love. North Berwick? Not a chance, too small. But how fun would it be to see the best guys play those greens, and think of the cool aerials. Either way, thank you for the content (as always) and look forward to your Open coverage. Rob

The cadence of Southern Pines, Mid Pines and Pine Needles extols Ross through his early architectural work. Small quirky and challenging greens at SP with more broad shoulders and less contour on PN. Mid Pines is the perfect blend of both with intimacy built into the routing. I am a fan.

just got back from my 10th golf trip to GB&I and it never disappoints. I was fortunate to be joined by my two 30 something sons and middle brother on this one, just so much fun. North Berwick on Day 1 in a 50mph breeze, followed by Gullane #1, The Old Course at St. Andrews (via the 48hr ahead Ballot), 36 holes on Day 4 at Kingsbarns and Elie and we closed it out at the Eden course at St. Andrews. IMO, it's hard to go wrong playing anywhere in GB&I. Even courses you've never heard of are worth playing as they are unique and fun. The only things that have changed since my first trip 18 years ago are the prices (much higher) and the number of traveling golfers (many more). And the food in Scotland this time was great, much improved compared to previous trips. I am hopeful for a couple of more trips there, to Wales and maybe one more time to England but if that does not happen, I have been very blessed to see some special places.

Thanks a ton for the additions Scott!!

Adam, you have a great list here. I have played most of them. I would add Rye to your RCP/RSG group. Also, The Berkshire is worth considering in your first grouping though those you have listed are probably all better. In your last group, I would advise taking a look at Hayling. I have not made it there yet but it looks stunning.

I just got back from my 10th golf trip to GB&I and it never disappoints. I was fortunate to be joined by two my 30 something sons and middle brother on this one, just so much fun. North Berwick on Day 1 in a 50mph breeze, followed by Gullane #1, The Old Course at St. Andrews (via the 48hr ahead Ballot), 36 holes on Day 4 at Kingsbarns and Elie and we closed it out at the Eden course at St. Andrews. IMO, it's hard to go wrong playing anywhere in GB&I. Even courses you've never heard of are worth playing as they are unique and fun. The only things that have changed since my first trip 18 years ago are the prices (much higher) and the number of traveling golfers (many more). And the food in Scotland this time was great, much improved compared to previous trips. I am hopeful for a couple of more trips there, to Wales and maybe one more time to England but if that does not happen, I have been very blessed to see some special places.

Played it two days ago! Absolutely worth the trip! Coupling it with Enniscrone and County Sligo makes it a no-brainer if you can swing it.