Originally created in 1909, the Arran Course had been rebuilt on two occasions, both of which followed the cessation of World War. Acting as neighbour to the immortal Ailsa course has always been a thankless task, although the Arran was rated by some to be an even sterner challenge. However in 1999 new goals were established for the Arran and Donald Steel, the esteemed course architect, was commissioned to redesign the course. However so comprehensive were the alterations that a change of name was warranted, with Kintyre maintaining the geographic link.

This celebrated new course incorporates Bain's Hill, a stunning stretch of land extending to the shores of coastline, guaranteeing even more spectacular links and cliff views. The view that greets you from the brow is just one moment among many you will want to savour again and again. This extra elevation multiplies the panorama that stretches in every direction, but the shots too are breathtaking.

These range from a delicate pitch in a rocky dell on the 8th to a thrilling second along the shoreline on the 9th. Widely regarded as the Kintyre's signature hole, the 8th, involves a drive from an elevated tee towards the sea and an unforgettable blind second shot to the green set in a gully by the rocks. The first is a great dog leg par 5 with the burn carving through it; the eighteenth is surely up there with the hardest finishing holes. Bunkers line the fairway and surround the green - quite superb finish.

This challenging course has quality in abundance and has already held a variety of championships, all with great success. From initial reports the Kintyre will, in time, surely become recognised as one of the finest Links courses. The Kintyre is not only a great addition to the Ayrshire Golf Classic further raising its kudos, it is another magnificent golfing asset for Ayrshire and Scotland. You will surely enjoy this experience.