For starters, it’s green. Courses in Scotland tend to brown out this time of year, creating a firm, fast and fiery test that also looks much different to the eye. Ireland’s terrain is much more lush, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s softer. Players are still expecting a firm Royal Portrush, barring heavy rains. Royal Portrush is also not flat, another hallmark of classic links courses, a la St. Andrews, Royal Birkdale and Royal Troon. Set in rugged dunesland along the Causeway Coast, players will play over and around varied terrain at Royal Portrush. At points, it will lead to more creativity, forcing players to deal with elevation seldom seen at The Open. It will also, in spots, eliminate some creativity, without the ability to run the ball up onto raised greens with false fronts.
