Old Course tee time given away as we were standing there...

dixiethunder · August 15, 2017

Posting this from the waiting room at the old course. We were lucky enough to get a tee time last August in the lottery and showed up today to play. As we were waiting to check in wth starter, they informed us that they had gone ahead and given our tee time away since we were not there 20 min before (we were there 10-12 min before, it's our fault for cutting it so close, but we ended up having to run back to flat for something so we're running behind). Really I need to vent more than anything but I honestly couldn't believe it, they are trying to get us out there, which is appreciated, but for anyone coming to play here, I'd make sure you are checked in at least 30 min early so same thing doesn't happen to you.

Stall · August 15, 2017

Posting this from the waiting room at the old course. We were lucky enough to get a tee time last August in the lottery and showed up today to play. As we were waiting to check in wth starter, they informed us that they had gone ahead and given our tee time away since we were not there 20 min before (we were there 10-12 min before, it's our fault for cutting it so close, but we ended up having to run back to flat for something so we're running behind). Really I need to vent more than anything but I honestly couldn't believe it, they are trying to get us out there, which is appreciated, but for anyone coming to play here, I'd make sure you are checked in at least 30 min early so same thing doesn't happen to you.

They get £175 from everyone who plays. They want to maximise their profits and fill those slots. They can't have the course running with gaps when people are desperate to play. They also need to be fair to the guys on standby that have been queuing since 4am.

I don't want to say it's your own fault, but it's your own fault.

Saying that, I completely understand why you are angry and need to vent. I would be raging, gutted etc and I only live 70 miles from the place. At least they are trying to get you out. I expect you will get out, hope you do and have a great day.

stringbean502001 · August 15, 2017

I hope all worked out!!

You already said all that was needed to be said...so no further comments on your day for sure

But rather to any newcomers to golf travel. Don't assume what you find at your local club will be the case anywhere else--don't give the local quirks in approach, communicated or not, ruin a trip. Plan a LOT of extra time in arrival, travel, eating, etc. Worst case is you have time to browse a shop or grab a local snack, or best of all you find a local who has a great story to share (which most everyone loves to do with visitors--after all it is their home), or just take a walk...some of my best memories over 50 yrs of golf travel all over the world have come in those times when I arrived absurdly early

dixiethunder · August 15, 2017

It all worked out, we waited about 2 hours but got out and it was a great day.

We showed up super early for our tee time at the New Course and just sort of sat around which is why we didn't rush over for ours today, but in hindsight (obviously) I would have made sure we were there at least 20 min early.

Stall · August 16, 2017

It all worked out, we waited about 2 hours but got out and it was a great day.

We showed up super early for our tee time at the New Course and just sort of sat around which is why we didn't rush over for ours today, but in hindsight (obviously) I would have made sure we were there at least 20 min early.

Glad to hear it. Good weather yesterday as well!

flog2 · August 16, 2017

they need the 20 mins as anyone waiting needs to pay/arrange caddies/caddies need summoned and organised etc etc etc, the old course tee times never ever back up especially when it's 4 X £175 plus caddie cut every 10 minutes.

Glad you got out ok, what was your verdict?

I was a bit underwhelmed (after the iconic tee shot), didnt find it difficult and apart from the obvious history and a couple of good holes its a very dull affair...imo

dixiethunder · August 16, 2017

I liked it, liked the New course a lot better for first 15 holes or so but you really can't beat the last 3 at the old course. Thrilled to have played it. Obviously was a bit flustered at the start due to circumstances but once I calmed down it was lovely.