Words about authenticity and ambience
In the posts “What is an excellent golf course” and “Factors for and against choosing golf courses” I have used the terms authenticity and ambience. The following is an effort to explain what I mean with these terms and thereby also how the terms can be a guide for you to understand the courses we chose to visit and my evaluation of these courses.
I am a member of 2 golf clubs in Denmark. My home club was established in1932, and is owned and managed by the members. The course is not in any way fantastic. Ordinaire is probably the best word.
My second club is 10 years old and have a fantastic golf course. The club is now, after some financial struggles, owned by one investor. The difference in authenticity and the ambience between the 2 clubs are pronounced.
Once, in the new club, we were discussing the difference between the clubs, when the teaching Pro dropped in and said: “Finn, your old club is a golf club. This new club is a place where you play golf.”
Spot on, but what is it that makes the difference. As said, the course of my home is not spectacular, and the construction of fairways and greens not of the highest standard. For example the drainage is not really efficient, fairways and greens can be very wet and greens can be closed for long periods of time during the winter. But the sense of belonging and responsibility is prominent. The social life is great. Many members have been part of the club for a long time and have known each other for a long time. But it is not just the age of the club that enhance the social life.
I am sure that the logistics play a big role. Just in front of the terrace of the restaurant is the putting green. This short distance prepare the ground for many putting competitions for a beer. Also the driving range and short game area is close to the club house. During practice you can take a break in the bar or on the terrace, get a cup of coffee and a chat with other golfers without walking a mile.
Furthermore, from the 18th green to the restaurant there is only about 100 meter. Again, preparing the ground for an after game beer and talk. Finally, the 18th green is visible from the terrace as well as from the putting green and driving range. All these factors creates the foundation of togetherness, responsibility, involvement, enthusiasm, proudness and traditions. Qualities that I try to encompass with the terms ambience and authenticity
The golf course of the new club are always rated among the 5 best in Denmark. And it is a fantastic golf course. Designed by Robert van Hagge.
The nature is great. The layout is great, easy to walk, no distance from greens to tees, no blind shots, what you see is what you get. Great greens – undulated and true, and in general always very well maintained and playable all year round. The practice facilities are of a high standard, but separated from each other and with a long distance to the restaurant. The logistic does not in any way promote social interactions during practice and before or after play and thereby not promoting any club life and feeling of togetherness.
I prefer to play the new club’s golf course, but to practice and socialize on the old one. It is not just the difference in the age of the club and ownership or the social background of the members that makes the difference, it is also the difference in logistics. Therefore, for many members, the layout of the golf course plays a minor role.
