The Links Diary Podcast

The Links Diary
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  • GOLF
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Golf storytelling that celebrates the soul of the game.

Episodes

  1. 3H AGO

    Episode 4: The Butten Boy

    Ernest Butten came late to golf. An innovator by nature and an entrepreneur by trade, he did not even take up the game until he was 60 years old. ​Butten watched British golf with growing frustration. The Open Championship, the very tournament born on British soil, seemed increasingly dominated by American players. To him, this was not a matter of talent but of preparation. Given the right coaching, time, and facilities, he believed British golfers could once again stand at the summit of the game.​  In 1963, determined to turn conviction into action, Butten decided to invest his own considerable resources into an ambitious experiment. He selected four young players who showed exceptional promise. His vision was bold: create an elite training environment unlike anything British golf had seen before.​ And so, almost quietly at first, the "Butten Boys" were born — a small group carrying the hopes of a man who believed champions could be made as well as discovered. Among them was Jim McAllister, one of the original boys, and this is his story. If you have enjoyed this episode why not become a member and support independent golf storytelling that celebrates the soul of the game - www.thelinksdiary.com/memberships

    33 min

  2. JAN 20

    Episode 3: Golf at the edge of the world

    Iona Golf Course is one of the most unique courses in the world. Set on a small island off Scotland's west coast, reaching it is part of the adventure: two ferries, a drive across Mull—one of the country's most beautiful landscapes—and a final mile on foot, as there are no cars here beyond those of the locals. The course itself is a natural wonder, raw and wild. Just twelve members belong to the Honourable Company of Iona Golfers, including Finlay, who joins us in this episode, alongside our good friend Jim Hartsell, to tell its remarkable story.  If you have enjoyed this episode why not become a member and support independent golf storytelling that celebrates the soul of the game - www.thelinksdiary.com/memberships

    1 hr

  3. 12/12/2025

    Episode 2: Hogan at Panmure with David Brodie

    We are joined in this episode by David Brodie of Panmure Golf Club. In 1953 Ben Hogan spent two weeks at Panmure prior to his only Open appearance - at Carnoustie - which he went on to win. David shares tales and stories of those two weeks spent on the links. A wonderful and insightful listen. We hope you enjoy. If you have enjoyed this episode why not become a member and support independent golf storytelling that celebrates the soul of the game - www.thelinksdiary.com/memberships

    53 min
  4. Episode 1: Writing, Golf and Revelations with Jim Hartsell

    11/10/2025

    Episode 1: Writing, Golf and Revelations with Jim Hartsell

    Jim Hartsell - our friend, author and contributor to The Links Diary - joins us for our first episode. Although he resides in Alabama his heart belongs to the west coast of Scotland. Jim has been writing for us from the very beginning and has profoundly changed the way we view this great game through his thoughtful words. He's written two books, most recently - When Revelation Comes - a loving tribute to his son Jordan who sadly is no longer with us. The book takes you on an emotional journey through heartache and finding peace on the sandy fairways of his beloved Kintyre. He's currently finishing his third book which will be available in the spring of 2026. We share laughs, memories from his numerous trips to Scotland over the past thirty years and the people he's met along the way. We hope you enjoy our conversation with our great friend. If you have enjoyed this episode why not become a member and support independent golf storytelling that celebrates the soul of the game - www.thelinksdiary.com/memberships

    1h 20m
  • 4 Episodes

About

Golf storytelling that celebrates the soul of the game.

Information

  • Creator
    The Links Diary
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    4
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    The Links Diary Podcast

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