Following the inaugural tournament in 2005 at Musselburgh Old Links, venue for 6 Opens in the late 19th century, the World Hickory Open 2006 moved 10 miles east to Craigielaw Golf Club, Aberlady for its first event with a full field of professionals competing in a Pro-am and the following day’s Open. Craigielaw continued to host the event through 2007 and 8. In 2009 the event moved to the historic golf course at Gullane where it continued in 2010. In 2011 the Championship will move back to Craigielaw, a modern links that adds to the unique stretch of golfing country.

It is very early days so far, but we are in discussions to hold the 2012 Championship in the North East of England. Additionally, we have been approached by the Royal North Devon Golf Club to hold the 2014 Championship there to help celebrate their 150th Anniversary.

Unique Stretch of Golfing Country

Gullane No. 2 as with its companion courses 1 and 3 sits mainly astride Gullane Hill. Close by is Luffness and among others nearby are East Lothian gems of Craigielaw, Kilspindie, Muirfield, Archerfield, The Renaissance and North Berwick West. This is quite a unique stretch of golfing coastline.

The Reverend John Kerr in his golfing guide (1894) wrote “There is no quainter or romantic spot than Gullane. Nor are there finer links anywhere ; try them for yourself. And what with hill and valley, fresh air and fine scenery, say if you can bring me anything to match my beloved Gullane.”

Bernard Darwin also put in his pennyworth in his book of great British golf courses (1910). He writes “There is probably no other golfing centre that is quite so good as Gullane”.
The course was built in 1898, designed by Willie Park Jr. and at the time was considered to be tougher than No.1, its yardage being over 6,000 yards. One of the great features of the course is its excellent short holes, particularly the 11th with its magnificent view and tricky club selection. Today it measures 6,244 yards from the medal tees which should prove to be quite a test for the best hickory players.

In 2010 Gullane No. 3 Course will be used for the Pro-Am to celebrate the centenary of this wonderful Golf Course designed by Willie Park Jr.