Alfred Dunhill Links Championship Power Rankings

Players and fans alike are treated to some of Europe’s top courses this week at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in Scotland

In big-time professional golf tournaments these days, so much goes into the selection of a host venue. While the quality of the 18 holes themselves are near the top of the priority list, there’s more to consider. The host needs to be able to accommodate parking, hospitality, security and other factors that contribute to the fan experience.

With so many boxes to be checked to be a suitable host candidate, it’s inevitable some desired courses are unable to make the cut. It’s part of the reason why we’re robbed of seeing a major championship at Pine Valley, for example. Some weeks it can feel like we’re simply watching the pros attack another cookie cutter course. This certainly isn’t one of them.

The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship has had no problem building clout since its debut in 2011. It attracts players from all over the world each year, including a handful of Americans.

A reason why so many make this a priority on their schedule is the triumvirate of courses they tee it up at alongside their pro-am partner: Kingsbarns, Carnoustie and the Old Course at St. Andrew’s. St. Andrew’s hosts the final round after the 54-hole cut.

The two latter courses are on The Open Championship rota and are two of the world’s best, most historic links courses.

Just four tournaments remain until the Race to Dubai Final Series, so there’s a lot on the line for players jockeying to either make the top 70 or align for a chance to make a run at the top prize.