Ever wonder how the scoring system in golf's greatest championships came to be? In this episode of The Secret of St. Andrews, we delve into the fascinating chaos of the R&A's original method for determining a champion—where players waited for clerks to scrutinize "jottings" before a winner was revealed. Join us as we uncover how this convoluted system led to the stroke play scoring we know today.

Three remarkable figures—John Rattray, Hugh Mercer, and David Wemyss—are at the heart of this episode of The Secret of St. Andrews. From their shared experience at the Battle of Culloden to their fascinating journeys across Scotland, France, and the American colonies, this story reveals their enduring patriotism, secret intelligence efforts, and lasting impact on history. Discover how their bonds, forged in rebellion, shaped Scotland’s future and influenced the American Revolution.

In this episode, we explore George Fullerton Carnegie’s Golfiana and its 1833 poem, The First Hole at St. Andrews on a Crowded Day. Dive into the colorful characters, vivid imagery, and timeless love for golf that Carnegie captures in this ode to the home of the sport. It’s a celebration of tradition, camaraderie, and the enduring charm of St. Andrews.

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