The British Isles is a varied, surprising and quite extraordinary playground for the golfer!Whether you prefer playing through sandy dunes, purple heather, magnificent pines or lush parkland, it is all here in abundance.

Although Links courses are much revered, the wonderful coastline also has some excellent cliff top courses, and the Bug has discovered one that can only be described as heavenly. At the risk of incurring the wrath of the members, who would prefer that their hidden gem remains a secret, the Bug is prepared to share the experience of playing at Thurlestone Golf Club in South Devon.

Situated at the end of the road, drive any further and you would end up in the sea, Thurlestone is tucked away around the corner from Salcombe. The course is a Harry Colt designed wonder, skirting along stunning cliffs, coves and beaches, providing views that are quite simply awe inspiring. Peter Allis when once commentating on the US Open at Pebble Beach mused that we had something more spectacular than the Americans finest in the UK; he was referring to Thurlestone!

The Par 71 course is quirky; three par 3’s in the first six holes, and three par 5’s in the last five, but it all seems so right. The condition in March after a harsh winter was excellent, and whilst it is neither long or particularly difficult by modern standards it is nonetheless a very good test for all parts of your game.

What sets the course apart though is the scenery; Turlestone is a place of outstanding natural beauty, where the views in almost any direction will take your breath away.

Playing a round of golf at Thurlestone is a tranquil experience; how you might expect golf in heaven to be!

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Paul Casey came close to being the first Englishman to win the WGC Accenture Match Play event on Sunday as he lost to Geoff Ogilvy 4&3 in Arizona.

Casey made a nervy start and was unable to get close enough to his Australian opponent to put any pressure on him.

In the third-place match, Englishman Ross Fisher was edged out by American Stewart Cink at the 18th to win 1up.

“I threw a lot at him but he didn’t flinch. It was very impressive. I didn’t have enough, simple as that. I have no excuses, he just played excellent golf all day.” Casey said after his loss.

The Bug congratulates Ogilvy and backs Paul Casey to come back stronger…and maybe even win a major this year!

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