JUDY Murray is best known for her high profile in the world of tennis, but it was a recently discovered love of golf which lured her recently to the Highlands.
She was guest of honour at celebrations to mark the 30th anniversary of ladies enjoying full membership at Royal Dornoch.
In addition to playing the Championship Course for the first time, Judy also fitted in a game at Brora.
“One of my brothers, Niall Erskine, is a long-time member of Royal Dornoch and his wife Tracey is a member at Brora,” she explained.
“They have been going up for golf and beach walks for many years.
“This was the first time I had played the Championship Course. The course is in immaculate condition; I loved all the little humps and bumps on the fairways and the greens are challenging but lovely.
“The outlook is spectacular, running alongside the Dornoch Firth and the beach.
“And teeing-off in front of that beautiful new clubhouse is memorable.
“It lived up to all my expectations and I can see why people like my brother and Tracey feel so incredibly relaxed when they visit the area.”
Golfers visiting the Highlands of Scotland can take their pick from a series of fabulous golf courses and Judy, who only took up golf four years ago, added Brora to a tick list that already included Castle Stuart on the outskirts of Inverness.
“I can totally understand why so many visitors from overseas want to play Scottish links courses when they come here.
“I played with my sister-in-law Tracey. The sun was shining and we had lunch in the clubhouse.
“Like Dornoch, I was struck by just how warm and friendly everyone was.”
Gleneagles member Judy insists she is a “totally erratic” 15.9 handicap and, in stark contrast to her hugely successful sons Andy and Jamie, she enjoys golf for recreation rather than to get the competitive juices flowing.
She admits the brothers would enjoy a visit to the Highlands, given the array of courses the region enjoys.
“Jamie and Andy would absolutely love it. They are both very good golfers,” said Judy.
“Andy is down to scratch already, which is very annoying! He is quite obsessed with golf and likes playing in competitions and medals.
“Jamie has started to get into it more since he retired from tennis at the end of last year so he has been having lessons.
“The sibling rivalry is already kicking in!”
