The reputation of Western Gailes as one of the game's finest and more exacting courses has spread world wide, as evidenced by its numerous visitors from around the world. In June 1903 the great Harry Vardon arrived at Western celebrating his fourth Open victory to win the first professional championship held and promoted by the Club. In 1923 its attractions were being lauded by the then US Open Champion Gene Sarazen who played the course with three other outstanding professionals of the day. Our setting is imposing being situated between the railway and the sea, both being very much in play as major features. It is special amongst seaside courses that are no more than two holes wide, in having its clubhouse in a more or less central position. The course is never other than an excellent test of true links golf. Any change in the strength or direction of the wind, that usually varies between south-westerly and north-westerly off the adjacent Firth of Clyde, provides new challenges that are compounded by the undulating terrain and finely contoured greens cleverly located and set in the folds of the surrounding sand dunes. There are seven holes to the north and eleven to the south. Together with the line of dunes running down the coastal stretch from the 5th to the 13th holes, the out of bounds wall from the 14th onwards, the plentiful supply of pot bunkers plus the meandering burns, all combine to present variety and a memorable challenge.  The Club are grateful for the permission granted by the photographers to use their work; in particular Steve Byrne, Geoffrey Turner of New York City and Patrik Ylen, a vistor from Sweden. Copyright remains with the photographers, but the Club would be happy to provide the photographers' contact details if copies of the photographs are desired.