Many golf clubs around the world have added a second 18 holes to their original course, either to enlarge the membership or to give better and less crowded facilities to their existing members. In November 1890, the Glasgow Club determined that efforts should be made to find a suitable site in Ayrshire to supplement the facilities in the city and to provide year-round play.

The Gailes course was opened on the 19th May 1892 making the Glasgow Club unique in having two courses - 30 miles apart. It wasn't long before the first professional tournament was staged with £40 prize money attracting all the leading players of the time including Tom Morris, Willie Auchterlonie and Ben Sayers.

The current layout was completed in 1912 by Willie Park.In the modern era, the course with its superb turf, fine greens and subtle qualities, is used as a final qualifying course for the Open Championship when it is played at nearby Royal Troon or Turnberry.

In recent years, the Scottish PGA Championship, the Scottish Amateur Championship and the British Youths Championship have also been played over Glasgow Gailes. Sandy Lyle is a past winner at Gailes and other competitors include Ryder Cup players’ Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia.

As a designated Open Championship qualifying course, the condition and playing characteristics of the course are monitored by the R & A. At Glasgow Gailes, just as at Carnoustie, St. Andrews, Troon and Turnberry, each hole presents a challenge. With a par of 71 and a course record of 64, Gailes will provide a test for golfers of all standards. Take a look at some of the holes using the Strokesaver below.