The Trip is Close

I'm counting down the days to 'the trip'. Scotland and Ireland are breathlessly awaiting my invasion. Lift-off to across the pond is late afternoon on Saturday, the 16th of July. From Pittsburgh, I fly to Chicago, to Dublin and then on to Edinburgh. A taxi ride will take me to St. Andrews depositing me at a B&B-type hotel in the heart of St. Andrews.

The Old Course beckons me. Of course, as a single golfer, the Caddy Master suggests I arrive early to obtain a time to play. He said 'some arrive as early as 3am', but the 'Starter doesn't arrive until 6am'. You bet I'll be there early... 4am-ish sounds about right.

I'll be in St. Andrews for 2 days before winging my way to Ireland for 9 days of golf, mostly in Northwest Ireland. My list of courses:

• Ardglass


• Ballyliffin Old Links


• Cruit Island


• Narin & Portnoo


• Donegal


• Rosses Point


• Enniscrone


• Carne

This is the start of something that I've always wanted to do... a 'bucket list' if you will. As I finish planning my trip I've come to a stark realization... there are waaaaay too many links courses in Ireland and I haven't enough days (this time) to play all those I want to.

Here's what I want to accomplish...

• Play courses that are not over-run by tourists. Play with locals as much as possible.


• Stay in B&B's or Guest Houses if possible. Especially ones in villages or near pubs (preferably).


• Survive the weather. From what I understand, wind and rain are normal. Cool temperatures may be the norm. I'm actually looking forward to nasty weather.. anyone can play in perfect weather. That's why rain gear and rain gloves were invented.


• Not hold my breath too much as I learn to drive on the 'wrong side of the road'... not only on the wrong side of the road, but from the passenger's seat! (Note to self. Pay auto insurance before leaving!)


• Enjoy the trip. It may be my only one.

Will I accomplish all that I want? Who knows. I do know this will be an adventure.

I hope to update this Blog as often as I can during the trip, but let's be real. I'm there to play golf, visit pubs and relax. I'll catch-up as often and as much as I can.

So... 3 days and I'm off! Hang on for the ride!!