Jubilee Course at St Andrews Links
The Jubilee Course is the third championship course at the Home of Golf, St Andrews Links, and is considered by many to be the most challenging course on the famous links. Originally opened in 1897, the course was named in honor of Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee celebration. Initially intended for use by ladies and beginners, the course has undergone several transformations, the most significant of which was carried out by Donald Steel in 1988, elevating it to championship standard and extending its length to 6,742 yards.
Today, the Jubilee Course stands as a par-72 test of golf, renowned for its demanding layout and the strategic challenge it offers. Positioned between the New Course and the sea, the Jubilee Course weaves through rugged dune land, providing spectacular views of the bay and the town of St Andrews. Its location ensures that the wind plays a significant factor in the round, adding to the challenge of navigating this links masterpiece.
The course is characterized by its narrow fairways, deep pot bunkers, and large, undulating greens that are a trademark of St Andrews Links. Precision and strategic thinking are required to score well, particularly on holes where the fairways are tightly bordered by gorse and thick rough. The Jubilee Course is unique among the St Andrews courses for its combination of links and dune land terrain, offering a different playing experience compared to its older siblings.
Notable holes on the Jubilee Course include the challenging par-4 15th, where golfers face a daunting approach shot to a green heavily guarded by bunkers, and the picturesque par-3 11th, which requires a precise tee shot to avoid the deep bunkers surrounding the green. Each hole presents its own set of challenges, ensuring that golfers must employ a full range of shots and strategies throughout their round.
The Jubilee Course is celebrated for its testing layout and stunning beauty, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It has hosted numerous amateur and professional tournaments, highlighting its reputation as a course of true championship quality.
Playing the Jubilee Course offers golfers the chance to experience another facet of the rich tapestry of golf at St Andrews Links. It stands as a testament to the evolution of the game, offering a blend of historical significance and contemporary challenge that is unmatched in the world of golf.