Championship Course, Carnoustie
Par 71, 6,948 yards
Website: www.carnoustiegolflinks.com
The Course: Some courses may have more visual appeal or grander heritage but few layouts in the world can match Carnoustie as a true examination of a golfer’s ability.
The test is tough but fair. It is no coincidence that the roll of Open Champions at Carnoustie features some of the greatest ball-strikers of all time, including Hogan, Watson and Player.
The diversity of challenge is impressive. The monstrously tough 2nd is followed by the charming 3rd. The par-five 6th is a masterpiece of strategic design while the 9th and 10th call on accurate shotmaking.
Carnoustie saves the best – and toughest – for last. The closing three-hole stretch features water, out of bounds and punishing bunkers.
Signature hole: The par 3 13th, with its hourglass green, demands finesse and accuracy.