The COVID 19 lockdown delivered a surprise at a golf club on a tiny Island in the middle of the British Isles. Set in the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man is a Crown Dependency with a small population of excessive drinkers.
The lush green Isle has a 105 mile spectacular coastline with 8 golf courses to enjoy. There are more golf courses per population than anywhere in Europe.
Rowany Golf Club is placed in pretty Port Erin, a village that boasts to have the best beach and the friendliest of golf courses.
Due to the virus crisis, the club has been given a rest from play. During the slumber from golf, Head Green Keeper, Simon Miller was greeted with a shock whilst strimming one morning last week.
Weather conditions over the COVID break meant excessive grass growth around the links. Mr Miller had his work cut out when he noticed that a Pyramid style structure hidden on the 18th tee box.
The Head Green Keeper was bemused as he related the tale, ‘I just kept cutting and cutting. Then, this thing appeared. It looked like a giant pyramid and after a while, it became obvious it was a Mayan Temple. It was quite a find.’
He added, ‘Normally with the strimmer, I’m looking out for dog shit. With a bit of work, I reckon we could use it for teeing off. It’s level on the top. A bit of elevation like. The Thursday morning crew will help with turfing and it’ll give you a nice sea view to end your game.’
During the hot summer of 2018, a series of ‘space lines’ appeared on the 11th hole of course. Pictured is the undisputed trigonometry which proves how these markings are pointing to the ancient heritage site known as ‘Fairy Hill’. Speculation exists that this is an actual UFO landing strip here another civilisation took charge.
Rowany volunteer and academic, Bill Denard was unavailable due to his TV commitments and hence, club steward, Peter Holt was interviewed about the discovery. Unbeknown, to the members, Mr Holt is a semi eminent historian amongst other things and was thrilled at the find.
‘It’s a bit of surprise. Mesoamerican pyramids shaped structures form a prominent part of ancient architecture. Although similar to Pyramids, these New World structures with their flat tops make them perfect to use as tee boxes. Having a view down to the sea is a bonus for a finishing hole too. The steps up are handy. It could slow some of the old boys down at the end of the round.
The Steward added, ‘It’s pure magic for me for me. I can see if anybody is coming down 18 late on. I’ll have time to lock the clubhouse and leg it home. No point your evening getting messed up for two halves of lager and a bag of ready salted.’
Once the COVID19 lockdown ends, members will be treated to the new tee experience. Former Captain, Albi Stoddart stated ‘It’s a bit odd hitting a driver from a grassed alter where 1000’s of ritual sacrifices took place. Having the extra view is something I’m not used to. I’m all for it.’
The appearance of the Mayan Temple is thought not to be related to the Easter Island statue that appeared a short time ago near the 8th green. Members have speculated about the likeness to local golfer, Steve Fox who regularly frequents the area ball hunting.
When the COVID cough has finally gone, book yourself a round at Rowany. It’s a right friendly club known for great greens and post round pints.
