The Wisdom of Willie

 

WILLIE Skinner has been part of the fabric of Royal Dornoch Golf Club since his schooldays.

Now 90, and still taking to the links, Willie has been a caddy, a multiple club champion and served as the professional from 1973-98, with his son Andrew following in his footsteps.

His father William, the town clerk, was the club secretary for many years.

So perhaps it wasn’t surprising that US author, retired judge, former Kentucky Senator, preacher and keen golfer and club member Tim Philpot visited Willie and his wife Mary on a visit to Dornoch.

Tim’s latest book “A Player’s Progress” is set in Dornoch and the golf course in the year 2056.

His fascinating interview, “The Wisdom of Willie,” has been shared with the golf club.

The conversation begins with Willie’s decision to exchange a job in a local dental surgery to become the professional, filling a role once enjoyed by Donald Ross, who went on to become the preeminent golf course architect in the USA.

“No one else wanted it,” recalled six times club champion and 1958 Carnegie Shield winner Willie. “Everybody thinks it was like it is today. But we had no visitors from the States or abroad and golf was only played in the summer months.”

Down the decades Willie has witnessedhis beloved golf club become one of the most famous links in world golf, welcoming international visitors in their droves, including presidents and instantly recognisable stars of stage, screen and sport.

Tim’s chat touches on the history of the town, including Willie’s recollections of the glory days of the Dornoch Station Hotel, which has recently undergone a major renovation; the evolution of the Championship Course; and Willie even throws in a valuable putting tip to help older golfers on the green!

You can view “The Wisdom of Willie” below or open in YouTube for the option of watching in full screen.