New hole for West Lothian

Club introduces unique ‘19th’ to boost nine-hole credentials... and please members!

The West Lothian Golf Club is hoping to encourage new members and visitors to its fairways after building a new hole to provide a nine-hole option at the scenic layout.

The club, situated above Linlithgow and Bo’ness, will soon have 19 holes at its disposal to offer more choices for all golfers.

Due to the existing course layout, the option to play nine holes is less than convenient as the ninth green on the course lies some 500 yards from the clubhouse. However, the addition of a new 136-yard par-3 is soon to change all that, giving West Lothian the chance to run nine-hole competitions and other such events.

Many clubs across Scotland have had great success running nine-hole qualifying competitions. Some clubs run these events for those who are relatively new to the game, or for senior members who perhaps find 18 holes challenging to complete nine-hole competitions are also proving to be particularly attractive to clubs and their members in summer evenings.

A further benefit to nine-hole competitions allows golfers who are time short to establish and maintain a competitive handicap - a major benefit of club membership.

 “One of the main challenges facing golf today is the ever reducing available time that people have to pursue leisure. An 18-hole commitment for many people, most notably with young families, is very difficult,” explained club manager Alan Gibson.

“A nine-hole option has been requested frequently to us over the years by visiting society organisers. It is also a great option for our developing junior players who may find 18 holes daunting, as well as giving members a chance to play a late evening summer medal or a bounce game, perhaps after their children have gone to bed.

“We will soon be able to offer competition golf for a greater part of the year with the later tee times available for those wishing to play a nine-option. This could be very useful in April and October or November. We also hope to offer regular nine-hole competitions during the season.”

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