Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago

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Golf wasn’t always 18 holes.
In 1764, the Old Course at St Andrews Links reduced its layout from 22 holes to 18 by combining several shorter holes.
Other courses eventually followed the model — and over time, 18 became the standard.
No grand master plan. Just one decision that shaped the game for the next 260 years.
So why does it feel untouchable?
Imagine courses designed to loop back to the clubhouse every 6 holes — play 6, 12, or 18 depending on your day.
Would you change it… or did history get it right?