Pride in The Pedigree tells the story of the foundation of Nairn Golf Club in 1887 and charts the development of the course over the years. From first beginnings to the years of both world wars and the depression, few realise the dedication and determination required of the committees to ensure the survival of the course, at a time when golf was comparatively a minority sport. There were many problems from the perennial plague of rabbits to recalcitrant landlords, lack of money and badly behaved caddies to name but a few!
There are many accounts of the rich and famous, as well as ordinary people, who came to play the course and marvel at the quality of its layout and scenic beauty of the surroundings. Royalty, politicians, film stars and professional golfers from all over the world have all come to play Nairn, many returning year after year.
Ian Nalder, himself a resident of Nairn and golf club member, has woven the account not only into a valuable history of the golf club but also into a social history of the town of Nairn and district. He said that it had been a fascinating project to research and write. From the many characters who had been involved with the course over the years, one person stood out above all others, the extraordinary character of Robert Finlay QC, later Viscount Finlay.
“Viscount Finlay was a remarkably selfless man. He chose his friends carefully and was loyal to them and also to the town of Nairn,” said Mr Nalder. “He was probably the greatest man to be connected with the town for the last 120 years and he never lost his love for it and the golf club. Robert Finlay was an able and much loved MP for the Inverness Boroughs and achieved the highest office – that of Lord Chancellor. His sage guidance of the club was inestimable.”
Pride In The Pedigree concludes with a wonderful piece of recent history, the victory of Britain and Ireland over the USA in the Walker Cup in 1999. The drama of the European win is the stuff of films and Ian’s account brings this memorable match back to life.
Pride In The Pedigree is published by Gopher Publishers at £20.75 plus p&p or from bookshops.
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