Hole 8 | Rodger’s
At stroke index 2 for male golfers the stats do not lie, yet for some this is a straightforward hole. An accurate tee shot using an iron or fairway wood leaves a mid or short iron second shot to a relatively flat green guarded by deep bunkers front left and right.
Many others have found Rodger’s to be a card wrecker. This mainly due to the dog-leg right-to-left shape and woodland tightly lining both sides of the fairway. Even a straight drive up the right can run off into the trees and roots that edge the fairway.
Top tip – big hitters and risk takers can get close to the green from the tee, but on this tight hole accuracy is key or you could find yourself reloading.
|
Tee |
Yards |
Par |
Index |
|
White |
368 |
4 |
2 |
|
Yellow |
336 |
4 |
2 |
|
Red |
327 |
4 |
10 |
Professional and Greenkeeper
Until relatively recently, it was not uncommon for a club professional to also serve as the head greenkeeper — a dual role that demanded both golfing expertise and deep knowledge of course care. Such was the case with David Rodgers, who took on both responsibilities at Forres Golf Club in 1955.
Rodgers played a pivotal role during a time of growth and transformation for the club. Under his stewardship, significant developments took shape — including plans for enhanced facilities, such as the introduction of the club’s first licensed bar, and a series of ambitious alterations to the course itself.
Among the most notable of these changes was the creation of two new holes — the present 7th and 8th. This project required substantial planning, replanting, and vision. Rodgers is widely credited with the superb landscaping and natural integration of this woodland section of the course, a testament to both his skill and dedication.
The excavation was said to unearth machine parts, bottles and all sorts. The Council supplied the eartch to compleet the project but such was the lay of the land preferred lies were given on these holes up until 1980.
Following his untimely passing in 1969, Rodgers was remembered as a figure of great influence and respect. In a lasting tribute, the club named the 8th hole — his personal favourite among the many improvements he helped deliver — in his honour.