Winter at
the Links
Winter 2023/24 Free of charge - please enjoy!
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Survey
Community Benefits Awards
What’s been happening?
The Rookery
Take part now!
A delicious winter crumble recipe for you to try!
Win a £50 voucher for The Rookery!
Find out more about the latest round of funding through our Community Benefits Programme.
Get the latest news and updates from the Links.
Plus find out about the latest news from The Rookery.
Take part in our latest survey for a chance to win!
The Link
The Link
The newsletter of Carnoustie Golf Links
1 The Link Winter 2023/2024
Welcome to the The Link! Introduction by Michael Wells Chief Executive, Carnoustie Golf Links
Welcome to our latest newsletter. Firstly, I’d like to extend my best wishes to you for a fantastic 2024! Exciting developments are on the horizon here at the Links, and we’re eager to share these moments with our vibrant community. First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude for your patience during the challenging weather of the past few months. We understand that it may have affected your ability to enjoy the Links, whether as a golfer, walker, cyclist, or runner. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our exceptional Greenkeeping Team, whose tireless efforts have ensured that the courses maintain the highest standards even in these tough conditions. Their dedication is truly valued by everyone who enjoys the Links. As we have transitioned into the New Year, we look forward to the promise of longer, brighter days ahead. We eagerly anticipate welcoming more visitors to the Links, offering an array of enjoyable experiences for all. On the horizon, The Senior Open presented by Rolex is a significant event in our calendar, and preparations are in full swing behind the scenes. We’re thrilled to host this exciting and historic tournament, and we hope you share in our enthusiasm for the upcoming events. Stay tuned for more updates and memorable moments at the Links!
Michael Wells, Chief Executive, Carnoustie Golf Links.
Our Community Benefits Programme achieved a milestone with its largest donation yet, committing to fund over £112k in our latest funding round. A further £5k was donated to supporting Brechin’s flood recovery. The Community Benefits Programme is dedicated to supporting local causes and organisations. Keep an eye out on our website and social media channels for future rounds of funding, however please don’t hesitate to reach out for more information if you have any queries. Contact: Lee Bowen, our Community Benefits Administrator at community@carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk. In 2023, we proudly welcomed a Stonemason and Stonemason apprentice to our team at the Links. Their primary focus has been on restoration works, diligently repairing and maintaining the intricate wall structures around the Links. We hope you’ve already noticed the significant improvement in the aesthetics and upkeep of The Barry Burn wall, a testament to their skill and dedication. Continuing to pioneer, we have introduced initiatives that align with a more eco-conscious approach to life at the Links. We invite you to join us in exploring sustainable practices that contribute to a greener and more environmentally responsible community. Together, we can make a positive impact for a more sustainable future. Quick Tip: why not bring a reusable water bottle with you next time you’re out on the Links? We’ve got a new water filling station situated just outside Links House!
2 The Link Winter 2023/24
Our latest survey... Tell us what you think! We value your opinion on The Link newsletter, which is why we consistently run reader surveys alongside each issue. We’re thrilled to present another survey and would be delighted if you could share your thoughts with us. Your feedback is instrumental in shaping The Link to better suit your preferences and interests. Thank you for taking the time to contribute your views! To give us your feedback on how we can make The Link even better, please visit: https://bit.ly/3vMgHHY or scan the QR Code below. Enter, to be in with a chance of winning a £50 voucher to spend at The Rookery!
Latest Survey Winner! Congratulations to Grant Miller who is our survey winner from The Link Summer 2023 edition! We hope you enjoy your £50 voucher for The Rookery! Thank you to all those who completed our latest survey, we very much value your feedback.
e Scan m t! ar p e k to ta
News from The Links
Town Christmas Decorations
Events & Seminars at the Links
Carnoustie Caddies
As part of Carnoustie Golf Links Community Benefits Programme, the charity donated over £22k towards the town Christmas lights and Christmas tree. We think that the new lights look spectacular. Congratulations and thank you to everyone involved in making the town look so great over the festive season!
We’re thrilled to have hosted seminars and informational talks open to everyone in the local community during 2023/2024 winter season. We hope you’ve enjoyed attending and have found them valuable.
Carnoustie Caddies celebrated their Christmas day out by taking part in various fundraising activities, raising £1,260 for local charities. The funds were divided between two deserving causes: the Carnoustie Fire Station’s Christmas Gift Appeal and Carnoustie’s Golf Memories group.
Our Community Benefits Programme provides an opportunity for local groups and organisations to apply for funding towards their activities. We were delighted to provide our biggest round of donations to date, taking our total charitable donations within the local Carnoustie (DD7) area to almost £400k since the programme began. We’re so pleased to have supported the beautiful Christmas lights that were extended along Station Road and Links Parade - organised by the Carnoustie Community Council.
We hope to bring you more of these presentations during the next winter season and would love to hear what else you might like to learn about. So far, we have planned events covering: • Course Ecology • Sports Scholarships • Nutrition • Health Benefits of Caddying If you’ve got any ideas, queries or feedback you’d like to share with us, then get in touch. Email: pr@carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk
The Fire Station collects donations to provide gifts and hampers for local individuals who may otherwise go without during the festive season. Carnoustie’s Golf Memories group supports those living with dementia or memory loss, utilizing golf-related memorabilia to trigger memories and combat loneliness. We are very proud of the efforts of the Carnoustie Caddies coming together to support local groups within the community.
Live Music Nights at The Rookery
Live music dates for your diary
Live music nights have made a return at The Rookery for the winter season, showcasing the exceptional talent of a selection of Angus’ singer-songwriters, live musicians, and acoustic artists.
Friday 2nd February – Adel Ward
Enjoy an evening with friends and family, a warm welcome and friendly service and wonderful live music whilst you relax with some delicious food and drinks!
Saturday 3rd February – Robbie Lesiuk Friday 9th February – Robbie Lesiuk Friday 23rd February – Adel Ward A reservation isn’t required, but we recommend that you book if you would like to guarantee a table. Visit The Rookery website or call 01241 802296.
Friday 1st March – Adel Ward Friday 8th March – Robbie Lesiuk Friday 22nd March – Adel Ward Friday 29th March – Robbie Lesiuk
The Link Winter 2023/24 3
Community Benefits Awards
Beneficiaries of the 2023 Carnoustie Golf Links Community Benefits Programme
Ian Frier (Vice Chairman, Carnoustie Golf Links), Cllr David Cheape (Community Benefits Convenor, Carnoustie Golf Links) and Lee Bowen (Community Benefits Administrator, Carnoustie Golf Links).
Carnoustie Golf Links Community Benefits Programme reaches new heights Carnoustie Golf Links hosted their Community Benefits Awards evening on Monday 16th October 2023, where they have committed to fund more than £112k to local community groups and individuals. This takes Carnoustie Golf Links Community Benefits Programme overall contributions to almost £400k since its inception.
contributed an additional round of funding to support Brechin’s restoration efforts after the recent extreme weather.
Furthermore, as part of Carnoustie’s commitment to giving back to the community, it also provides tens of thousands of pounds worth of value in kind. The Links provide free coaching to almost 400 junior golfers every week, including advanced and high-performance programmes, helping those who show budding skills to reach their full potential in the game. They also run the Girls.Lead. Golf ® Academy, designed to empower and equip girls with skills for life and work through the sport of golf. Furthermore, Carnoustie’s greenkeeping team provide time, equipment and expertise to local community projects and schools throughout the year and the Links have proudly donated to a number of town projects in the past, including contributing to the festive celebrations by providing the town Christmas Tree and contributing towards the Christmas Lights. We even
Full list of October 2023 Community Benefits beneficiaries:
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The Carnoustie Golf Links Community Benefits Committee seek applications from local groups and organisations within the Carnoustie and District area who are looking for assisted funding towards community projects.
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Carnoustie Panbride Friendship Circle Craws Nest FC Carnoustie Choir Lesley’s Music and Movement Kinloch Care Centre Adoption and Fostering Charity Group Arbroath and District Athletics Club Angus Jubilee Fund Carnoustie Memories Carnoustie Claymores Swimming Club The Manna Project Friends of Carnoustie District Heritage Royal British Legion Carnoustie Friends of the Fairy Steps Carnoustie Thistle Football Club Carnoustie Panmure Football Club Carnoustie Petanque Club Carnoustie Community Council (Christmas Lights) Carnoustie and Monifieth Men’s Shed
Community Benefits Administrator Lee Bowen, HR Coordinator at Carnoustie has recently taken on the additional role of Community Benefits Administrator. Keep an eye out for him around Links House. Lee will be happy to chat to you about any questions you may have regarding the Community Benefits Programme. Email your queries: community@carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk
Life on the Links
Send us otos! your ph s pr@carnou
tiegolflink
s.co.uk
The Links is not just for golfers – it’s for everyone to experience! We’re curious to see how you make the most of your time exploring our grounds, whether it’s for golf, engaging in other sports, strolling, capturing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, or indulging in some nature spotting. Share your moments with us as we celebrate the diverse ways our community enjoys the beauty of the Links! We asked you to send us photos of your time at the Links and we’re delighted to share a selection of your images. Please keep them coming! We may well share them in our next edition of The Link newsletter. Send your photos to: pr@carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk
Jan Meldrum shared this lovely photo of some of the swans and their cygnets bobbing along the burn.
Poppy Bubbles enjoying a warm day out on the grassy area beside the Links - have you seen her wonderful bubble creations?
Season Ticket Holder, Brian enjoys heading out on his bike with his trusty friend, Ollie the dog, in tow!
A history lesson from Carnoustie’s Ambassador and Keeper of the Carnoustie Way Reflecting on his childhood, Trevor fondly remembers visits with his Aunt, Gertie Simpson, to the family golf shop titled “R. Simpson and Son”, but just known in the family as “The Shop”.
A familiar figure at the Links and throughout Carnoustie, if you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Trevor Williamson yet, then what are you waiting for? Hailing from Carnoustie’s renowned Simpson family, Trevor Williamson boasts a rich golfing heritage. His Grandfather Robert and great uncles graced The Open multiple times between 1883 and 1906, with great uncle Jack Simpson winning The 1884 Open at Prestwick. His family owned Simpson’s Golf Shop, considered to be the oldest golf shop in the world. A legendary figure at the Links, Trevor has deep historical ties to Carnoustie’s golf development and a fervent passion for storytelling.
“I loved going to the golf shop. It was only a short walk along Links Parade from the family home, Rockcliff. When you entered the front shop, it was quite small. This was because in the early 1950’s there was no range of personalised items such as sweaters, shirts, and souvenirs that a present day golf shop would now stock. It would be a fairly long time before the overseas visitor trade would become regular and strong, but golf clubs sold well. To do this you needed a good workshop area. At Simpson’s, the workshop was very active and producing many quality sets of clubs. This is the part of the trade that I loved. There were two traditional clubmakers who worked there. Their names were Willie Smart and Jock Brown, who were big, strong men and they quickly became my heroes. They would try and get me to hold and swing a mallet, so heavy I nearly fell to the floor! “Smarty” as he was known in the family, did everything that was amazing in my
eyes. Smarty taught me golf on the Links, and much to my Mum’s horror, he took me out on the North Sea with his mates in his fishing boat, where there were no luxuries such as a life jacket. But how could I feel any fear in the company of these men who I considered to be my heroes? It was a memorable experience which has fondly stayed with me since. The trips to the shop with Auntie Gertie, the smells of the workshop that I can still recall today, the leather of the golf grips, the pitch, the sweet smell of the spirit varnish. I was always around the shop, taking it all in and what I learned from Willie, Jock and my uncles is what drove me to make clubs, and so that is what I did. I followed in their footsteps and became a club maker.” And the rest is history, as they say...
Source: Ecco Golf
The Link Winter 2023/24 5
Golf Development
at Carnoustie Golf Links Girls.Lead.Golf Academy
®
The Girls.Lead.Golf ® Academy has been created by Carnoustie Golf Links and has a two-fold purpose; to combat the drop-off rates of girls participation within golf, and; to help girls develop leadership skills for the future. The team at Carnoustie were very aware of the drop-out rate of young golfers in their early teens and wanted to address the issue – in this case, particularly focusing on girls within the sport... And so the Girls.Lead.Golf ® Academy at Carnoustie Golf Links was born; helping shape the future of girls golf in Carnoustie.
Girls Golf Hubs
The benefits are far reaching
Become a Junior Leader
The Girls.Lead.Golf Senior Leaders work with the PGA Golf Development Team throughout the year to support coaching sessions as well as hosting 5 seasonally themed Girls Golf Hub coaching sessions for younger girls within the Carnoustie Craws Programme.
The Girls.Lead.Golf Academy at Carnoustie produces a virtuous cycle of girls inspiring girls within the game. Girls are not only taught how to play golf, but also about the wealth of other career and social opportunities available within the sport and beyond. In doing so, we hope that we can inspire a new generation into the game, those who are creative thinkers and strong leaders who will see the game grow and improve far into the future.
We are currently recruiting Junior Leaders. Becoming a Junior Leader will enable you to improve on your leadership skillset and gain volunteering experience that can be used on your CV!
®
Junior Leaders will advance to Senior Leaders when they feel they have developed the necessary experience to assist with the delivery of the programme.
Six-year-old Carnoustie Craw top of her age group in Junior Skills Challenge Carnoustie Craws junior golfer, Isla Kelly was invited to The Scottish Golf Junior Skills Challenge finals at Crieff Golf Club in September last year after finishing in the top place on the national leader board in her age category over the season. The format of Scottish Golf Skills Challenge is similar to the Drive, Chip and
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®
Putt event held at Augusta just before the Masters each year and has been extremely popular with children across the country. Also representing the Carnoustie Craws, was junior golfer Sebastian Brown who qualified to play in The Junior Skills Challenge finals. Embracing the nerves on the day, both players enjoyed the experience and played very well with Isla finishing in 1st place in the Girls Age 6 and Under event. Isla Kelly
Carnoustie Craws: Volunteer Recruitment
Another vibrant summer season for The Carnoustie Craws
We are looking for Season Ticket Holders and parents who would be interested in assisting the PGA Golf Development Team during the Carnoustie Craws junior golf coaching sessions.
We were delighted to have another busy season with The Carnoustie Craws Junior Programme and are pleased to share that our golf development team coached 400 children over the course of 2023. We reached another amazing milestone this year and now have 101 Juniors Season Ticket Holders holding a handicap index!
Committing to a couple of sessions per month is the minimum requirement, and we cannot begin to express enough the level of satisfaction and reward that comes from watching these amazing, young golfers improve and develop each week.
Well done to all those who attended the sessions and participated in our competitions. We’re already looking ahead to the 2024 summer season - see you then!
For more information, contact our Golf Development Team who would be delighted to hear from you! Email: golfdevelopment@carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk
The 10-Hole Championship The Carnoustie Golf Links 10-Hole Championship was inspired by the course’s original architect, Allan Robertson, who laid out the first 10 holes in 1842 (although the first record of golf played at Carnoustie dates all the way back to 1527). The unique routing of the course saw competitors play the 1st, 2nd, 6th, 7th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th holes, with the final 10th hole play-off taking place on the 18th hole. We were delighted to host the third annual 10-Hole Championship, in association with Double A Trading on Saturday 14th October 2023. Making it to the final playoff was Clarkson Fulton (41 net 35), Iain Burnett (42 net 36), Scott Tovey (40 net 36) and Ian Newell (43 net 37) - who all played some fantastic golf during the 9-hole Stroke Play stage of the competition. In the end, there could only be one champion and emerging from the playoff as our winner of The Carnoustie 10Hole Championship was Ian Newell. It was a fantastic finish to an event designed to give all of our Season Ticket Holders a chance to compete, no matter their age, gender or ability. The event format was unique and hopefully those of you who took part enjoyed the challenge of The Carnoustie Championship Course set-up and the routing of holes. Thank you to all of the competitors, and to everyone who came along to support the players. We look forward to seeing you again next year!
We want your opinions!
S c a n m e!
We would love your views on The Link Newsletter. Can you spare 5 minutes to take part in our survey? Take part to be in with a chance of winning a £50 voucher to spend at The Rookery! https://bit.ly/3vMgHHY
Top Tip from our Pro
How to play effective shots whilst hitting into a strong breeze. There is no doubt that the Scottish weather has a huge influence on our golf game. In particular, the wind, especially here in Carnoustie. We can prepare for these inevitable conditions through our clothing when on the course, but do we know how to prepare our golf swings? In windy conditions golfers often choose the wrong club or try to hit the ball harder and on occasion falling into both of these traps. These mistakes can be catastrophic to ball flight into the wind as it will most likely create unwanted spin on the golf ball, which a strong wind loves to eat up!
Sc a n
m e!
Find out how PGA Teaching Professional Stuart Milne approaches windy conditions on the course by watching his short clip. Scan the QR code using your smart phone.
The Link Winter 2023/24 7
What’s been happening at Carnoustie Golf Links?
Carnoustie secures prestigious accolade at The Courier Business Awards 2023 We were honoured to receive the award for Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality plus Business of the Year - the ultimate award - at The Courier Business Awards 2023. As an organisation dedicated to doing the right thing for the local community, it is a real pleasure to be recognised for the commitment, passion and ambition that the team at Carnoustie display each and every day. Michael Wells, Chief Executive said: “The strength of all the businesses is a credit to Courier Country. To win this award is great for the staff and I am just so proud of them. We’ve had so many challenges over the past few years, but they believe in what they do and they want to succeed.” Adair Simpson, Deputy Chief Executive said: “We are over the moon. It represents everything that we are about. The award is for the team. It is for every single employee because they all delivered something.”
Photo credit: DC Thomson
The annual black-tie event, held in partnership with Henderson Loggie, celebrates various remarkable companies operating across Tayside, Angus and Fife.
Live music nights are back at The Rookery this winter season Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a food connoisseur, or someone seeking a laid-back evening of relaxation, our live music nights offer the perfect blend of entertainment and gastronomic delight.
Carnoustie celebrates Women and Girls in Sport The first week of October marked ‘Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Week’ which gave us the opportunity to shine a light on the various ways women and girls are participating in sport. We look at the opportunities for participation and how Carnoustie Golf Links can make sport more accessible to all by removing barriers. We focused on celebrating some wonderful individuals at Carnoustie Golf Links including: Claire Penman - a member of Carnoustie’s unique Funding Support Programme for High Performing Amateur golfers; PGA Professional, Rebecca Tully Head of Merchandise; Ailsa Roy - Carnoustie Golf Links’ Caddie Master; Alex Fairlie - HR Advisor who has undertaken specialised training through The R&A; Melody McMahon - one of our wonderful Carnoustie Caddies; and Girls.Lead.Golf ® alumni. Visit our Carnoustie Golf Links Trust Facebook page to find out more! @CarnoustieGolfLinksTrust 8 The Link Winter 2023/2024
The Rookery prides itself on providing a cosy and inviting atmosphere, creating the perfect setting for an evening of live music, great food, and delightful company. Unwind with friends and family as you bask in the warm ambiance and embrace the music for the evening. Head over to The Rookery website for dates for your diary!
www.therookerycarnoustie.com
Join the Team! Keep an eye out for exciting opportunities to become part of the team at Carnoustie! At Carnoustie, we pride ourselves on being a world leading golf destination, holding our values of Authenticity, Inclusivity, Sustainability and Innovation & Development at the heart of all that we achieve. Joining our team would mean upholding these values in all aspects of working life, striving to enhance our customer experience in every way possible. Ever thought about working at Carnoustie Golf Links? There are lots of wonderful benefits, including: competitive salary, generous discounts across all areas of the business, free on-site parking, free Season Ticket for our three wonderful courses* and much more! If you think you might be the right fit for Carnoustie, why not visit www.carnoustiegolflinks.com/join-our-team-carnoustie to find out more and apply online today. Terms apply: Full-time permanent positions or seasonal positions after a 6-month period will gain access to a Three-Course Season Ticket.
*
Come along to our Health, Wellbeing and Recruitment Day Tuesday 27th February 2024, 11am-3pm
Join us for an informal open day where you can see our facilities and learn more about the roles available. A variety of local mental health and well-being charities will be on site too, giving you the opportunity to learn about the helpful services on offer. There will be complimentary tea and coffee available for all to enjoy. Remember to bring along your CV. See you there!
Hot Topic! Artificial Intelligence (AI) When we think about the world around us, technology is everywhere. With fast-paced changes in robotics, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality, it’s easy to assume that the golf industry is not in-line with the technology evolution we see around us. But that would be an incorrect assumption to make.
ourselves for being world leaders in the industry and want to be able to integrate technology for the benefit of golfers. One of the ways we use AI at the Links is with the technology we have at our Indoor Performance Centre; AI is assisting golfers to perfect their swings by analysing their movements in real time.
Golf is no stranger to the advancements technology can provide; standing the test of time thanks to the rich respect for tradition and history, special allowances are made for worthwhile modernisations of the sport.
The Indoor Performance Centre technology uses sensors and cameras to provide insightful data on the swing, aim and other information any golfer may want to review. A golfer can see the club angle they are currently displaying, adjust and see the impact. You don’t need to
The hot topic of the moment is Artificial Intelligence (AI), providing a new level of data capture and experience. Most of us probably think of futuristic ideas when we hear “AI is here”, but don’t worry, the terminator is not headed out to hit a few balls.
have specialised clubs to get base line information, you can purchase HMT dots via the ProShop (around £0.40 each) to really maximise what the sensors pick up. And if you really love a good spreadsheet, you can have the data exported and emailed to you for some serious analysis. So, if you are ready to step into the future and give it a go, come down to Links House and have a chat with the pros. As always, golf is for the love of the sport, but for those of you who love to dig deep into the analysis of the data, AI in golf is providing new ways to improve your game.
AI in golf, like most things influenced by artificial intelligence today, has been developed to help the user adapt and improve. At Carnoustie Golf Links we pride
The Link Winter 2023/24 9
The Rookery Restaurant and Bar
Recipe: Pear Crumble with Raspberry Cream
(Serves 4) Warm your cockles during these colder months with this deliciously comforting Pear Crumble served with a zingy raspberry cream. Ingredients: 6 Ripe Pears 1 Lemon (zested & juiced) 4-8 Tablespoons Sugar 1 Tablespoon Plain Flour 65g Ground Almonds 2 Tablespoons Butter Crumble Topping: 50g White Sugar 50g Golden Brown Sugar 100g Plain Flour 100g Unsalted Butter, cubed 65g Flaked Almonds Raspberry Cream: 200g Raspberries 50g White Sugar 1 Teaspoon Lemon Juice 150ml Whipping Cream
Preheat the oven to 190C.
For the filling
Place the juice of one lemon in a bowl. Peel the pears and soak them in the juice for a moment to prevent discolouration. Then, cut the pears in half and core, ensuring all pips and stalks are removed. Slice each pear half lengthways into wedges - around 8 will be ideal. Once cut into their wedges, return the pieces to the lemon juice. Heat a large frying pan over a medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan and melt. When the butter has fully melted and any foam has subsided, add the pears and cook for around 3 minutes. Turn the pan gently to ensure the pears are not sticking and add a little extra butter if required. Sprinkle the sugar over the pears and continue to cook for 3-5 minutes longer. You may have to reduce the heat slightly to avoid over cooking. The pears will begin to take a golden colouring and should be relatively soft. Remove from the heat. If there is any excess liquid, gently drain. Toss the slices with flour and lemon zest then set aside.
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For the crumble topping
Next, mix the white and golden brown sugars together, with the flour and butter. Work the ingredients together - this can be done by hand or by food processor. With your oven proof dish ready, sprinkle the ground almonds to create a base layer at the bottom of the dish. Next, lay the pear slices evenly to a depth of around 2.5cm. Finally, begin pouring your crumble topping over the pears evenly to a depth of around 1cm. Finally, scatter the flaked almonds over the crumble topping. Place the crumble into the preheated oven for around 30 minutes, aiming for a deliciously golden and firm crust. Remove from the oven when you’ve achieved a golden top.
For the raspberry cream
For the raspberry cream, puree the raspberries with sugar using a blender. Press the puree through a sieve to remove seeds if desired. Add the lemon juice to the puree. Whip the cream to soft peaks by hand or using a hand mixer, gently fold in the puree. Add a little more sugar if the puree is too tarte. Serve the crumble warm with a generous dollop of the raspberry cream at the side - enjoy!
www.therookerycarnoustie.com 01241 802286
Tasty Tipples and More-ish Nibbles Indulge in a firm favourite – our delectable tapas dishes! Our menu boasts a delightful array of small plates, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every taste.
Why stop at one when you can savour three mouthwatering tapas dishes for just £15? Perfect for a laid-back afternoon with friends. Pair these savoury plates with our tempting tipples for an unforgettable gathering. And if that’s not enticing enough, have you explored our latest drinks menu? Discover a world of flavour with tempting cocktails, a rich selection of local spirits, and a variety of beers. Elevate your dining experience with the perfect drink companions.
Scrumptious dishes to tantalise your taste buds!
In November, we were delighted to bring you our latest dishes as part of our Autumn/Winter menu for the 2023/2024 season. Perhaps with the busy festive season in close concession, you didn’t quite get the time to try out some of our mouth-watering dishes, but don’t worry, there’s still time!
Chocolate Tartuffo
Here’s a couple of snaps of some of our favourite dishes to tempt your taste buds! Perhaps now is the time to plan your catch-up with friends and family?
Book now: www.therookerycarnoustie.com
Toblerone Mudslide
Blue Cheese Panna Cotta
As a thank you... After a wonderful festive season, we’re delighted to share a special offer with you.
Enjoy Relax and unwind with a view We will never tire of these amazing panoramic views! Is there a better way to spend a relaxing evening, than enjoying a relaxing drink and delicious food with breathtaking views to match?
10% off
when you spend £20 in The Rookery
Valid from 30th January 2024 - 31st March 2024
Have you managed to snap one of Carnoustie’s spectacular sunsets from The Rookery? We’d love to see them! Send them to: enquiries@therookerycarnoustie.com The Link Winter 2023/24 11
Greens’ News
Looking after our Links
Photo credit: DC Thomson
Photo credit: Mark Seale
Photo credit: Mark Seale
Species on the Edge: working with schools Species on the Edge is a new ground-breaking partnership programme of NatureScot and seven nature conservation charities, all dedicated to improving the fortunes of 37 priority species found along Scotland’s coast and islands.
Woodlands Primary to help plant new kidney vetch last year. It was wonderful to see the children invested in protecting the local wildlife and we are pleased to see their interest in the course ecology.
Delivering a four-and-a-half-year programme of work to tackle the impacts of environmental change on wildlife, to benefit both nature and people. The partnership consists of Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, The Bat Conservation Trust, Buglife, Bumblebee Conservation Trust, Butterfly Conservation, NatureScot, Plantlife, and RSPB Scotland.
The main aim of the project is future security through improvements for coastal species in Scotland whilst being able to provide:
Carnoustie Golf Links are delighted to partner in helping the Small Blue Butterfly by creating a source of food in the form of kidney vetch whilst also providing a habitat for safe breeding. The Links were delighted to welcome primary 7 pupils from
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A support network between communities, to safeguard vulnerable biodiversity Strengthening of the partnership approach to conservation work in Scotland Awareness of the importance of biodiversity to Scotland Strong relationships in the community
Bird Boxes A yearly audit will be conducted over the next month to establish areas where we need to reinstate bird boxes that we have lost due to storms, we will also take the opportunity to clean any which have been used and record any activity. Terms and Conditions: Valid on food, soft drinks and hot drinks only. Alcohol not included. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Cannot be used on set price menus. Non transferable and non-refundable. Valid from 30/01/24-31/03/24. This voucher must be presented at time of dining in order to redeem offer. Only one voucher can be redeemed per reservation. Minimum spend of £20 required.
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Burn and Pond Clearance The clearing of weed in the burn took place prior to 2023’s Dunhill Links Championship and covered not only on the 3rd/4th of The Carnoustie Burnside Course but further up the route towards MacDonald Smith Drive (under Angus Council’s authority). Other areas of weed clearance also took place in the ponds at the 15th on The Carnoustie Buddon Course and the 8th/9th (on The Buddon) in a short time period when the course was closed due to the tournament. The clearance forms part of a 5-year plan to look at all ponds on the course and put in place the monitoring and removal of weeds in areas (roughly 20% per year) in a bid to create habitats in the water that all creatures can enjoy without being too overgrown.
Before
Dunhill Recycling Despite the time constraints caused by the tournament’s overrun, we successfully maximised recycling efforts for the Dunhill Links Championship. This initiative, in partnership with Richemont, ensures minimal waste goes to landfill as a result of the tournament week. All excess wood went to the Carnoustie and Monifieth Men’s Shed Group, all flowers went to Our Easthaven with some of the heather also going to Glamis Castle.
After Cycle Track The first part of the upgrade to National Cycle Network Route 1 in Carnoustie has finished. The work comprises of a 450-metre stretch of path between Barry Links Train Station and Carnoustie Golf Links practice area and is the first in a series of measures to improve sections of the National Cycle Network in Carnoustie. Section 1 is supported by funding from the Scottish Government, administered through Sustrans Scotland’s Network Development Fund, and with the support of Carnoustie Golf Links. The whole scheme, agreed in principle with Sustrans Scotland for National Cycle Network Route 1 in Carnoustie, will improve access for walking, wheeling, cycling and equestrians between Barry Links Train Station and Carnoustie Train Station. The timings of the subsequent phases being constructed are still to be confirmed. As part of an active travel route, the environmental aspects have been carefully considered, with nearly all materials on site being recycled, with all excavated materials, existing fences, surfaces and even sign poles being re-purposed either in these works or by Carnoustie Golf Links.
TV Tower wrapping went to the local group – Food is Free, which will be ideal for covering their vegetables during frosty periods. They provide free food to those in need throughout the town. A similar initiative will also take place during clear-up after The Senior Open.
Ecology Seminar On Monday 6th November, Craig Boath, Head of Sustainability, hosted an evening talk about ecology on the estate with Bob Taylor and Sophie Olejnik, who work with The R&A on various projects/consultations up and down the country. Season Ticket Holders and the general public alike were invited to attend the presentation in The Rookery to find out more about the ecology work that has taken place at the Links: in the past; learn about what’s happening now; and provide some insight into what is in store for the future. The talk focused on biodiversity and ecology on the golf courses and what practices take place to keep the Links wildlife rich. The event was well attended with over 90 people in the audience. We are also looking for volunteers to help, recording the various species living in and around Carnoustie Golf Links, if you would like to be involved please email: sustainability@carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk
Native wildflowers were sown out along the route with the help of the local Burnside Primary School, who also assisted creating bug hotels from recycled wood and tree cuttings. The Link Winter 2023/24 13
Season Ticket Holders’ News
Celebrating our Season Ticket Holder Tournament Winners!
Claire Penman
Pat Sawers
John Tonner
Mike Sinclair
Peter Nugent
Wendy Edwards
Rory Ferguson
George Sampson
Cole Stewart
Robert Garland
Ian Newell
Heather Strathdee
Freya Dolan
Murray Stark
Aidan Cooper
Ben Teviotdale
Blair Cargill
Finlay Elrick
14 The Link Winter 2023/2024
Angus residents prices We’re delighted to let you know that Angus residents will receive access to preferential ticket prices for this event. Please keep an eye on our social media channels where we will share all of the information on how to access these tickets! The Senior Open Presented by Rolex will take place at Carnoustie Golf Links for the first time in eight years when the exciting event returns to Scotland this summer. Europe’s only Senior Major Championship will visit Carnoustie for the third time when the 38th edition of The Senior Open Presented by Rolex takes place from July 25th-28th, 2024. The Carnoustie Championship Course has become widely regarded as one of the world’s finest golf courses, as well as being tagged ‘Golf’s Greatest Test’. The Course has been created and refined by some of the most iconic names in golf history to make the most of the dramatic natural elements in the incredible Angus location. The closing stretch of holes on Carnoustie’s Championship Course is without doubt one of the most challenging in the world and will no doubt provide for some dramatic finishes.
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Bernhard Langer of Germany after winning the Senior Open Championship at Carnoustie in 2010. Photograph: Ian Macnicol/Getty Images
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Tournament Winners Keith Chalmers (not pictured) The Carnoustie Matchplay Championship
Mike Sinclair Paul Lawrie Cup
Claire Penman Ladies Links Championship; Women’s Scratch (Burnside Course)
Robert Garland Paul Lawrie Men’s Quaich
Wendy Edwards Ladies Links Rosebowl; The Carnoustie 10-Hole Championship Scratch Cole Stewart The Nicoll Cup Rory Ferguson Junior Links Championship; The Carnoustie 10-Hole Championship Junior John Tonner Gents Links Championship Winner George Sampson Paul Lawrie Salver; The Ben Hogan Trophy Peter Nugent Paul Lawrie Trophy
Pat Sawers Paul Lawrie Women’s Quaich Richard Allison (not pictured) Men’s Scratch (Burnside Course) John Neeson (not pictured) Scratch (Buddon Course) Elaine Vickers (not pictured) The Carnoustie 10-Hole Championship - Net George Finlay (not pictured) The Carnoustie 10-Hole Championship Scratch Clarkson Fulton (not pictured) The Carnoustie 10-Hole Championship - Net
Freya Dolan Junior Winter League; Craws Doubles Championship Heather Strathdee BP Shield - Craws Handicap Matchplay; Craws Doubles Championship Finlay Elrick Craws Order Merit Scratch Blair Cargill Craws Order of Merit Handicap Ben Teviotdale Craws Masters Championship Murray Stark Craws October Championship Scratch Aidan Cooper Craws October Championship Handicap
Ian Newell The Carnoustie 10-Hole Championship Playoff
The Link Winter 2023/24 15
Entertainment & Puzzles Fun & Games! Sudoku - Easy
Carnoustie Word Fit Birdie Buddon Bunker
Burn Burnside Carnoustie
Driver Fairway Golf
Green Nestie Tee
Sudoku - Hard
Dingbats
Try your hand at this Dingbat puzzle. A Dingbat is a visual word puzzle from which a well known phrase or saying can be identified - give it a go!
Have you got news or an event to share with the community? We’d love to feature some of your news, stories and events in the next edition of The Link. Just email: community@carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk using the subject line ‘The Link’. See more on page 4&5. Contact us +44(0)1241 802270 golf@carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk carnoustiegolflinks.com
Visit us Carnoustie Golf Links Links House, Links Parade Carnoustie, DD7 7JE
Dingbat Answer: Third Time Lucky
Puzzle Time
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