The Ailsa course at Turnberry, located on the Ayrshire coast of Scotland, recently closed for renovations in preparation for winter. Renovations will be overseen by Martin Ebert of Mackenzie & Ebert design, who has previously worked on the course in 2015. The Ailsa was listed 18th on GOLF’s ranking of Top 100 Courses in the World in 2023, showcasing its importance in the world of golf. The most significant changes will occur on the front-side holes, including moving the green of the par-5 7th hole closer to the coastline and shifting the tee of the par-4 8th hole to enhance views of the iconic Turnberry lighthouse.
The renovations at Turnberry have not been without their challenges, as architect Martin Ebert and course owner Donald Trump have had their fair share of disagreements. Trump has called Ebert the most stubborn man he has ever met, highlighting the intense dynamic between the two. They have clashed over the location of certain greens on the course, with Ebert often standing his ground on design decisions. In some cases, Trump has relented, such as allowing the 14th green to be located in a shallow valley instead of on a cairn stone, due to a superstition about moving the stone.
The tension between Ebert and Trump also extended to the location of the par-3 6th green, with Trump wanting it shifted closer to the coast. Ebert, who was attached to the hole, initially prepared to move the green but ultimately convinced Trump to leave it in its original location. The two have also debated over the design of the 9th hole, with Ebert initially wanting a short par-4 and Trump pushing for a long par-3 along the coast. Ultimately, Trump’s argument for stronger impression prevailed, leading to the final decision on the hole design.
The Ailsa course has not hosted a major championship since 2009 when Stewart Cink beat Tom Watson in a playoff. The R&A removed Turnberry from the championship rota in 2021, citing concerns about the focus on the championship, players, and course amidst political turmoil. Despite the challenges in professional golf, recreational golf remains popular, with top courses like the Ailsa in high demand months in advance. Recreational players will have to wait until April for the Ailsa to reopen for public play, showcasing the enduring popularity of the iconic course.
