Links golf courses are a unique test of skill and strategy, offering a different experience compared to traditional parkland courses.
Known for their natural terrain, coastal settings, and challenging conditions, links courses require a thoughtful approach.
Whether you’re playing the iconic St. Andrews in Scotland or a hidden gem along the Irish coastline, here are the key factors to consider when playing a links golf course. Furthermore, if you are interested in golf betting, you can check out the latest odds at Bet442.
Understand the Terrain
Links courses are typically built on sandy soil with undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and limited trees. The natural contours of the land influence every shot. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Expect your ball to land on slopes or awkward stances. Practising shots from uneven lies can give you a significant advantage.
The sandy base allows for firm fairways and greens, meaning the ball rolls further. Club selection and shot trajectory are crucial to account for this extra rollout.
Respect the Wind
Wind is a defining feature of links golf. It can turn a straightforward par 4 into a daunting challenge. Key tips include:
Use a punch shot or keep the ball low to minimise wind interference. Adjust club selection based on the wind’s direction and strength.
A headwind may require two or more extra clubs, while a tailwind may demand less. Wind can make scoring unpredictable. Stay calm and focus on executing each shot.
Embrace the Ground Game
Unlike parkland courses, where aerial shots dominate, links golf often favours the ground game:
Use the firm fairways to your advantage by rolling the ball toward the target and avoid high shots that are more susceptible to wind. Opt for lower, more controlled trajectories.
Adapt to Greens
Links greens are usually hard and fast, making it difficult to stop the ball quickly. Consider running the ball onto the green instead of flying it all the way.
Navigate Pot Bunkers Wisely
Pot bunkers are small, deep, and strategically placed hazards unique to links courses. To avoid costly mistakes:
Prioritize avoiding bunkers over an aggressive approach shot. A single pot bunker can add multiple strokes.
If you find yourself in a pot bunker, play conservatively. Often, the best option is to take your medicine and play out sideways or backwards.
Be Ready for Variable Weather
Links golf courses are often exposed to the elements, with changing weather conditions adding to the challenge:
Coastal weather can shift quickly from sunshine to rain. A windproof jacket and waterproof gear are essential.
Protect yourself from the elements, whether it’s strong winds or a sudden downpour. Accept that conditions might be less than ideal. Embracing the challenge is part of the links golf experience.
Think Strategically
Links golf rewards careful planning and creativity. Instead of relying on brute force, concentrate on placing your ball in favourable positions for the next shot, even if it means sacrificing distance.
Study the layout, including undulations, hazards, and wind directions. Knowledge of the course can save strokes. Each links course is unique, so be ready to adjust your strategy as you learn its quirks.