The Magic of Golf: A Family’s Incredible Experience at Cullen Links
Golf is a sport where each swing has the potential to create unforgettable moments. It’s all about that special combination of timing, tempo, and feel—elements that can elevate a mundane day on the course into an extraordinary experience. One memorable tale comes from Jim Rohrstaff, a golf enthusiast and seasoned professional with years of experience in the game. He and his family recently embarked on a remarkable journey to the storied links of Scotland, where they encountered an unforgettable moment that would leave its mark on their lives forever.
Jim Rohrstaff is no stranger to the golf world. Hailing from Kalamazoo, Michigan, he has effortlessly transitioned from being a club professional to a partner at Legacy Partners, where he focuses on developing golf courses and communities. Known for his love of the game, Rohrstaff has lived and breathed golf for most of his life. Despite having a wealth of experience, little could prepare him or his family for the once-in-a-lifetime occurrence that awaited them.
The Rohrstaff family kicked off a thrilling nine-day golfing adventure, playing six renowned courses that included Nairn, Castle Stuart, and Royal Dornoch. On Day 4, they arrived at the charming Cullen Links, a historic course originally laid out by the legendary Old Tom Morris. Their interest in Cullen was piqued by mentions on the popular No Laying Up podcast, sparking excitement for what lay ahead. “The vibe was very, very strong when we got there,” Jim recalled. “It was a good day to be at Cullen. Stunning, stunning day.”
Founded in 1870, Cullen Links offers a unique golfing experience. Originally a nine-hole course that expanded to 18 holes in 1905, it boasts a par 63 layout, primarily comprising par threes. Playing at just over 4,600 yards, it offers not only a challenge for seasoned golfers but also a chance to connect with nature. On this adventure, Cullen Links served as their gateway into the majestic Scottish Highlands.
As the day progressed, the family soaked in the beautiful surroundings while tackling the distinctive challenges presented by the course. Jim started the day strong, driving the first green and converting for an early birdie. Both he and 18-year-old son Blake, a 4 handicap golfer, faced a hiccup at the par-3 seventh hole, each making double bogey. However, there was a twist: younger brother Eric, relatively new to golf, made an impressive putt for a birdie. Little did they know, their day was about to get even more extraordinary.
Next up was the 280-yard eighth hole, a par-4 known for its elevated tee box and scenic views. Jim and Blake exchanged friendly banter about which club to use; Jim initially considered hitting a 3-wood before settling on the driver. The family shared a laugh, and Jim launched a solid cut driver. The wait to see where the ball would land was filled with anticipation, and it didn’t take long before they all knew something remarkable had occurred.
As Jim and Blake joined the others near the green, both began searching for their golf balls. Oddly, there was only one ball resting on the green, Eric’s, which left Jim puzzled. He looked around but couldn’t find his or Blake’s ball, which should have been either on the green or just off it. The excitement turned to confusion until Eric made a startling discovery while searching for his brother’s ball—both Jim and Blake’s were in the hole!
“‘Oh, well there are two here,’” Eric casually remarked, not realizing just how significant his find would be. The family was initially incredulous. As they rushed over, Jim’s excitement bubbled over; he described his reaction as ‘hopping around like an idiot.’ This incredible moment—their combined aces on the par-4 eighth hole—was a staggering 17-million-to-one occurrence.
“I’ve been lucky enough to score 11 holes-in-one, but never on a par 4,” Jim shared, his voice filled with astonishment. Blake echoed similar sentiments, initially confused about the situation before realizing the full impact of their simultaneous achievement. Both father and son found themselves wrapped in joy, sharing a moment that defies the odds.
The jubilant energy didn’t stop there. Celebrating their success, the Rohrstaffs poured a drink of their family’s favorite “birdie tequila” and informed the clubhouse of their remarkable achievement, inviting everyone to celebrate. As they made their way to the clubhouse, they encountered another twist of fate. The bartender recognized their home club’s logo from New Zealand and had a personal connection to the family, further heightening the joy that filled the room. They captured the moment with a celebratory FaceTime call, cementing this unforgettable experience in their family lore.
That evening, Jim lay awake in bed, replaying the day’s events. “How could that even happen? How is it possible?” he wondered. Jim thought about legendary stories in golf history, where caddies would assist players to help them ace a shot. But here, on the venerable grounds of Cullen Links, it was a pure moment of skill and luck, reminding him of the sheer beauty and unpredictability of golf.
Jim Rohrstaff and his family’s incredible experience at Cullen Links serves as a testament to the magnetic nature of golf. Each swing holds the potential for magic, and it is in these rare moments that the sport truly comes alive. For the Rohrstaffs, this wasn’t just a day on the course; it was a bonding experience that solidified their love for the game and etched a remarkable memory into their family narrative. As the saying goes, that’s golf—a sport that continues to amaze and inspire generations.
