Claret Dreams
Historic Hickories in the Modern British Open
by
Book Cover & Preview Text
"Ladies and gentlemen, our final pairing of the day", echoed the announcement. "From the United States, Mr. Arnold Palmer." The Scots loved Palmer and his style of play. He respected the tradition of the Open and they, in turn, admired him for that. His tee shot rocketed down the first fairway accompanied by a great roar of appreciation. The applause died down and again the captain stepped up to address the audience. "Ladies and gentlemen, he said with a certain sense of pride, from Scotland, Mr. Ian McCoren." I had never heard such a warm and boisterous cheer before and I sensed that it lifted young Ian's confidence.
Formats
Book Details
About the Book
In 1889, a young boy receives a complete set of handmade golf clubs from his father’s friend, the “Patriarch of Golf,” Old Tom Morris. The clubs, imbued with seemingly mystical powers, are passed down through the ensuing generations of the MacCoren family. In 1962, Ian MacCoren qualifies for the British Open Championship using these very clubs. While others scoff at the use of such ancient implements, given the evolution of golf technology, Ian’s game makes believers of the golf world. Opponents like Gary Player and Arnold Palmer test the youth’s steely nerves as he attempts to accomplish the impossible and win the British Open Championship as an unknown amateur. Even as Ian shocks the world on the golf course, family tragedy and personal disaster offer additional obstacles in Ian’s quest for the “Claret Jug.” Discover the birth and evolution of golf, the inception and development of the British Open Championship, and grab a front row spot in the gallery for the dramatic conclusion of Claret Dreams.
About the Author
Tim Alpaugh is a student of both golf history and golf architecture. He has played many of the nation’s top golf courses and has received acclaim for his entry in the Alister MacKenzie Golf Architecture competition. He enjoys making reproduction hickory golf clubs at his home in Randolph, New Jersey.