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Links Golf in its Purest Form

By Dave Finn

Royal Porthcawl in Wales dates back to 1891 and comes with a fine pedigree. It is currently ranked No. 1 in Wales and No. 86 in the world, according to the Top 100 Golf Courses of the World. From the clubhouse, you can see the beachfront views to the south and across the Swansea Bay to the rugged coastline of the Gower Peninsula to the northwest.

Being from the “other-side of the pond” I rarely have the opportunity to play a true links course. Some golfers are more partial to the modified terrain and well groomed North American style but for me this is golf in its rawest form. I love the sheer ruggedness and natural setting.

In the past, I have challenged Ballybunion and Royal County Down in Ireland and most recently Cabot Links in Cape Breton Island Canada so I understand how much the coastal weather conditions can play havoc with your game. More