Open & Closed: Exploring Golf's Accessibility with Ru MacDonald

The Open Championship! Most golf nuts' favorite golf-on-tv week of the year (Sincerest apologies to the third week in April). Matt and the Professor welcome a special guest, Ru MacDonald of Cruden Bay fame, to explore his insights on the cultural aspects of golf in Scotland, the impact of technology, and the importance of accessibility and sustainability in the sport. The discussion also highlights lesser-known golf courses (do we dare say hidden gems?), the influence of Americanism on Scottish golf, and the community aspect of the game that is still thriving in an era not so open. Plus some picks for the Champion Golfer of the Year. The episode concludes with reflections on balancing passion and profession in one’s chosen career.

NewClub > [https://www.newclub.golf](https://www.newclub.golf/) Titleist > [https://www.titleist.com](https://www.titleist.com/) Connect with Ru and Linksland > https://www.linksland.golf/

Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reflections on Golf Engagement 02:41 Matt's Return to Competitive Golf 05:22 Independence Day and Anticipation for the Open Championship 08:15 Insights from Titleist Fitting Experience 11:01 Interview with Ru McDonald: Golf in Scotland 13:57 Bob McIntyre's Impact on Scottish Golf 16:33 The Art of Ball Flight Manipulation 19:21 Port Rush Preparations for the Open Championship 22:08 The Unique Experience of Attending The Open 25:18 Cultural Aspects of Golf in Scotland vs. America 29:56 The Accessibility of Golf in Scotland 31:26 American Influence on Scottish Golf 32:17 Balancing Tradition and Modernization 37:40 The Future of Golf in Scotland 40:21 The Passion for Golf Course Architecture 42:57 Hidden Gems in Scottish Golf 48:13 The 12-Hole Golf Movement 52:37 The Secret Sauce of DP World Tour Videos 57:21 Navigating a Career in Golf