Balgownie Links gets long overdue recognition

I ALWAYS thought Royal Aberdeen’s Balgownie links was under-appreciated.

Turns out, it was just being quietly admired.

There’s always more attention given in the “best of ” lists to Royal Dornoch or Cruden Bay, or even Trump International Links at Balmedie.

I’ve always thought Balgownie, particularly the outstanding front nine, was better than all of them.

Big tour events didn’t tend to go there, as the main entrance is through two bottleneck junctions on the northern Aberdeen commuter route and then via a very narrow road in a residential area.

However, the Senior Open and 2011 Walker Cup changed opinions and this July’s Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open is proving a huge attraction.

Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke committed yesterday, joining defending champion Phil Mickelson, Rory McIlroy and PGA Tour leader Jimmy Walker.

Justin Rose and Graeme McDowell have also said they will play. It’s now possible that the Scottish might have a stronger field, in terms of world rankings, than the European Tour flagship the BMW PGA.

Mickelson’s success in doubling up the Scottish and Open Championship titles last year has convinced many.

The fact the last three men to take the Claret Jug have played the Scottish Open since it returned to links in 2011 has helped too. However, recognition of the quality of the links is also crucial — and not before time.