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The first three golf links in Scotland of which there is written record are: 1552, St Andrews; 1593, Leith; 1616, Dornoch.
Despite the fact that the golfers of Dornoch only formed a Club in 1877, they were so far seeing that they constructed a second golf course known as the Ladies Course in the early part of the 20th century. This course was complete with its own Clubhouse and golf on it was provided free to all children in the Parish of Dornoch. Only three holes of that course remain in existence in the present Struie course, namely the 1st, which is Struie 16, the 17th, which is Struie 14 and the 18th, which is Struie 15. From the Course there are excellent views across the Dornoch Firth to Tain and up the Firth to Struie hill. The town of Dornoch and its cathedral are viewed from an entirely different perspective.
Over time it has been recognised that the Struie Course was somewhat shorter than contemporary courses and an architect, Robin Hiseman, was commissioned to design 5 new holes plus some amendments to existing holes. As from spring 2003 these new holes and the new greens and tees have been brought into play replacing existing holes. The new holes take players down to the Dornoch Firth where they will enjoy fine views both to the West and back to the Town.
Previously a fine test of golf requiring accurate shots, the additional length will require players to use all the clubs in their bag. Conditions vary according to the mood of the prevailing West winds. Few golfers will find it easy to play to their handicap on it. However it is easy to walk and both ends of the age spectrum can enjoy playing it without becoming fatigued.
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