We returned to Balbirnie Park for their Senior Open and soon discovered that the speed of their  greens were the fastest we have so far putted on. My playing partners were Doug Low and Don Wilson, both Balbirnie members.

I soon found out just how fast the greens were with the downhill putts scary fast, almost guaranteeing a three putt every time as I found to my cost at the 3rd and 4th, running up double bogey’s each time. For the remaining sixteen holes I was only two over par, finishing with a gross 77 and a net 71 to equal the CSS of the day. My playing partners were both Balbirnie members and their local knowledge proved to be worth at least four strokes. Nephew Billy managed a good score, finishing with a net 67 to win his age group by one stroke, well done. His playing partners were Hamish McKay (centre) and Peter Jackson, both from Kinross Golf Club.

The clubhouse is well presented and very modern while the serving staff behind the bar and kitchen polite and attentive. Toilets/ shower area clean and tidy.