The January 1, 2010 issue of Golfweek magazine was on my desk this morning and it contains on page 85, rankings of modern (as defined as built 1960 or later) golf courses built in GB & I.

Rankings for me are a great source of discussion, but please do not take them too seriously. The interesting courses I noted were;

Castle Stuart #2 – for a course which opened 4 months before the end of the golf season in 2009 this is remarkable but speaks volumes to the course itself

Waterville #4 – always one of my favorites in Ireland. Tom Fazio did a fine job of improving the front side.

Castle Course (St. Andrews) #15 – it has been subjected to much criticism so great to see recognition

Machrahanish Dunes #21 – as above but more for maturity

Celtic Manor (Twenty Ten Course) – #19 – venue for 2010 Ryder Cup

K Club (Palmer Course) – #35 – venue for 2006 Ryder Cup

Gleneagles – (PGA Centenary Course) #38 – venue for 2014 Ryder Cup

Do you notice a theme?

Anyway, good stuff and ideal for endless conversation & analysis on a golf trip.
 

About the Author: Gordon Dalgleish is the Co-Founding Director of PerryGolf, the leading provider of international golf vacations. You can find him on Google+