King Edward Bay Golf Club, situated in Onchan on the Isle of Man, boasts a rich history that reflects the evolution of golf on the island.
Early Beginnings: Howstrake Golf Club
The origins of the club trace back to 1892 with the establishment of Howstrake Golf Club. The creation of the new Electric Railway line from Derby Castle to Groudle sparked the idea for a new nine-hole golf course to be built to add to the growing tourist interest the Island was generating. Old Tom Morris, the renowned clubmaker and ‘keeper of greens’ at St Andrew’s, was engaged to design the course, leading to the birth of Howstrake Golf Club.
In 1893, the course was temporarily closed to allow the Port Jack and Royal Avenue area to be developed. However, just 12 months later, Dr. Farrell, a local golfer, found an area of ground near Groudle suitable for a new 18 holes, and together with George Lowe, Old Tom Morris got to work on designing the Onchan course once more. A new timber-framed and iron-covered clubhouse was erected behind what is now the 15th green, with a fine view over Douglas Bay, and was one of the first public buildings in the Island to have electric lighting.
By 1896, Howstrake was considered one of the best courses at that time, attracting players from the UK with regular competitions offering prizes totaling £70. The club’s prominence continued into the early 20th century, hosting notable events such as a 54-hole tournament in 1929 featuring the British and Irish Ryder Cup team, including Henry Cotton.
Challenges and Relocation
The economic downturn caused by the First World War affected the club significantly. However, by the 1920s, a new 18-hole, 150-acre course was unveiled, leading to a period of prosperity for Howstrake Golf Club. Despite this resurgence, the club faced challenges in the mid-20th century, including a proposal to reduce the course to nine holes in 1965, which was met with resistance from passionate members.
In 1970, Ramsey developer Manor Investments purchased the club, and two years later, the club received a ‘notice to quit,’ which it was forced to accept. However, in 1974, following intense negotiations and much hard work by the committee, the course was back in business, and club spirit was rising once more. The course was unveiled on a new 55-acre site with 13 holes, and Harold Jones continued in charge, a position he held for nearly 20 years, assisted by his family and stalwarts.
Establishment of King Edward Bay Golf Club
In 1984, a consortium of nine local businessmen, headed by Peter Gough, formed Golf and Leisure and purchased the course. They built a grand new clubhouse, giving new life to the treasured club. The facility was opened in 1987, and the club was renamed King Edward Bay Golf Club in 1989. At this time, Harold Jones retired from his role, and local man Roy Moore was appointed as head greenkeeper. By 1991, the course had been restored to its full 18 holes and has since gone from strength to strength, thanks largely to the tireless efforts of Peter Gough and present head greenkeeper Brian Duggan.
Course Design and Features
The course, designed by Old Tom Morris in the late 19th century, is a par-67 heathland links that boasts stunning coastal views running from Douglas Bay along the Island’s east coast to Groudle. It is superbly maintained by dedicated greenkeeping staff and volunteers, offering golfers of all abilities a unique and exciting test. The course has seen major changes over recent years, with the redesigned 8th becoming one of the toughest par fours in Manx golf. New greens on the 7th, 10th, 16th, and 17th have also presented fresh challenges to players, with even more developments set to take place.
Cultural Significance
The club has played a significant role in the Isle of Man’s golfing community, hosting various competitions and events. It has been praised for maintaining the traditional values of links golf, with its tricky, firm greens and narrow, undulating fairways reflecting the design principles of Old Tom Morris. The club’s history is a testament to the dedication and passion of its members, who have worked tirelessly to preserve and enhance the course over the years.
Today, King Edward Bay Golf Club continues to thrive, offering a memorable and cherished golfing experience to both members and visitors, while upholding the rich heritage and traditions established over a century ago.
