Fall Storms In Scotland Damage Historic Golfing Treasure
Links at Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Club is close to Inverness in the Highlands of Scotland. The golf club is the 15th Oldest Recorded Golf Club in the World (1793) and lies on the northern and opposite side of the Moray Firth from Castle Stuart.
From 2011-2013 the club was host to the Scottish Open and again in 2016. Since 1987 it has, together with the John Deere Classic, been the last chance to qualify for The Open Championship.
There is also a Dolphin colony which you can be lucky enough to see when playing on holes 1-6. Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Club is the HOST Club of the World Hickory Open Championship 2024. The beach and course were taken over by the Military in the 1940’s where landing activities were practiced on the beaches in preparation for the D-Day landings during World War Il.
Unfortunately, this picture perfect postcard golf course suffered a lot of damage following recent storms in October 2023, as chunks of the Black Isles Coastline fell into the sea causing significant damage to this ancient treasure.
To help finance restoration work, Fortrose and Rosemarkie are offering an attractive Overseas/International ‘Lifetime’ membership deal.
When you can boast the only links play in your region of Ross-Shire, you’re onto a winner – and the club’s membership of more than 1,100 reflects its popularity, not only locally but increasingly from overseas, all eager to soak up history and stunning coastal views on a unique Championship course.
Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club is the 15th Oldest Recorded Club in the World and was established in 1793.
The Club operates as a private members club with visiting golfers most welcome seven days a week. The first documentary evidence of golf being played over Chanonry (now called Fortrose) was in 1702. It was contained in a letter from a Mr George MacKenzie of Balconie, a cousin of the Earl of Seaforth and provost of Fortrose at that time.
Writing to his Edinburgh law agent, he thanks him for sending him a club and golf balls but admits that as a farmer he should not really be playing golf at harvest time. He then excuses himself at succumbing to such sporting pleasure by adding the words ‘Oportet Vivre’ (Life is for living) – a philosophy followed by many golfers to this day!
With their unique setting, breathtaking views, including a dolphin colony this fantastic links golf course is open to visiting golfers who come to the area to enjoy what links golf is all about.
They are open all year round and would suggest that if you would like to come and see for yourself you will be made most welcome and the staff at the club will be only too happy to help enhance your golfing experience and visit.
Reach out to Mike MacDonald at the club for any questions or information at secretary@fortrosegolfclub.co.uk
