Links offer taste of seaside under the giant turbines

If there is one abiding memory of the Halifax course at Ogden, it is the wind turbines.

They dominate the skyline of this moorland course and golfers get up close to them during their round.

Ogden is special for the area, as it’s about as close as you will get to a seaside links. There are very few trees, but the undulating landscape and tricky greens provides a link challenge.

Five-time Open champion James Braid laid out the course in the early 20th century. His experience was used to fashion holes out of the moorland as it winds its way gently up the moorside.

The layout remains much as Braid originated, but in 1912 another world famous golf architect made some alterations – Alister McKenzie, designer of the legendary Augusta National, home of the US Masters. You’d find it hard to find such credentials!

Ilkley Gazette: Halifax GC

Each hole at Ogden is quite different from the last, making it a course which will stand out in your memory long after you have enjoyed its unique delights.

The first 12 holes take you on a steady climb up the valley with many fairways criss-crossing two streams.

Eventually you arrive on the 17th tee, with nowhere to go but down, and that via ‘Bagott's Leap’.

On such an exposed course the wind can play a critical role, and regulars might have used everything from a driver to a wedge depending on the conditions.

Then it’s back to the lovely clubhouse, offering a lovely view of the moorland – and those wind turbines!

FACT FILE

Name: Halifax Golf Club

Address: Union Lane, Ogden, Halifax, HX2 8XR

Website: halifaxgolfclub.co.uk

Telephone: (01422) 244171

President: None

Club pro: David Delaney

Annual fee: £739

Visitor fee: £30 Mon-Fri, £36 weekend

Course length: 6,123 yards

Par: 70

Signature hole: 17th – par three steep downhill all the way, pictured

Shop: Yes

Ilkley Gazette: Halifax Golf Club
Ilkley Gazette: Halifax Golf Club