Wide fairways define Dundonald Links in North Ayrshire, a modern design along Scotland's west coast

IRVINE, Ayrshire, Scotland -- Dundonald Links might be young compared to its historic neighbors -- Royal Troon, Western Gailes and Prestwick Golf Club -- but the site does have some interesting history.

There was an early course named the Dundonald Golf Club from 1911-1936 before the land was taken over by the military. Architect Kyle Phillips brought golf back to the mostly flat site, creating a 7,100-yard modern links that opened in 2003.

Phillips, best known for his work at Kingsbarns, uses wide fairways cut through man-made dunes to make players feel confident before tightening the shot-making demands on the approach. Penal bunkers surround some wild greens.

Burns protect several holes, notably in front of the greens at no. 9 and no. 18. The 13th and 16th holes play parallel to the railroad tracks that separate the course from Western Gailes. The signature swing comes on the 11th tee box, a perplexing 120-yard par 3 with an elevated green. Short shots knocked down by the wind typically end up in a marsh or three deep front bunkers. A shot long might end up in a devilish pot bunker smaller than a bathtub.