NCG Top 100s Podcast

National Club Golfer

Welcome to the NCG Top 100s Podcast, the ultimate audio companion for golf course lovers, rankings enthusiasts, and those who just can’t get enough of the game’s greatest venues.

We dive deeper into the history of golf's most celebrated courses, featuring interviews with the game's most prominent figures and stories from our adventures.

Available on your preferred podcast platform and YouTube.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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20 episodes
Updated Friday

Episodes20

Newest first

Friday · 55 min
The Best 54 Holes in England? | Inside the Incredible Hagen 54 Experience
Tom Irwin is joined by Mike Robertson to relive one of golf's most unique bucket-list experiences: the Hagen 54. Fresh from walking and playing 54 holes in a single day across Royal St George's, Prince's and Royal Cinque Ports, the pair discuss what makes the event so special, from Walter Hagen's incredible story and the history behind the route to the atmosphere, the people, the golf and whether this is the greatest golfing day out in England. They also compare the three legendary links, reveal their favourite holes, share what it's really like tackling 54 holes in one go, and explain why the Hagen 54 has become one of the most memorable events in the golf calendar. Would you take on the challenge? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 18 · 48 min
Tom Mackenzie joins the NCG Top 100s Podcast at The Open Championship
In a special episode of the NCG Top 100s Podcast, host Tom Irwin is joined by Tom Mackenzie, one half of Mackenzie and Ebert, the golf course architecture duo who were behind the vast changes made to Royal Birkdale ahead of The 154th Open. During the third round of play, Tom and Tom Mackenzie dive into the golf course and how the changes have stood up to the best players in the world throughout the week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 14 · 1 hr 21 min
The Huge Changes Shaping Royal Birkdale Ahead of The Open
Re-visting Royal Birkdale... In this episode of the NCG Top 100s Podcast, host Tom Irwin is joined by Richard Weeks, General Manager of Royal Birkdale, to explore the extensive preparations underway ahead of hosting The Open Championship. They dive into the thinking behind recent course changes, how the team balances tradition with modern championship demands, and what it really takes to present one of the world’s most iconic links at its absolute best. From agronomy and conditioning to logistics and player experience, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at staging golf’s oldest major. Whether you’re a course architecture enthusiast or just love The Open, this is an insightful conversation on the challenges and craft of preparing a world-class venue for the global stage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 7 · 50 min
Royal Birkdale Reinvented: What to Expect at The Open
With The Open returning to Royal Birkdale, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy take an in-depth look at one of golf's most iconic championship venues ahead of the year's final men's major. The pair break down the dramatic changes made to the course since Jordan Spieth's memorable victory in 2017, discussing the brand-new holes, redesigned layouts, and whether the updates will make Birkdale a better test for today's longest hitters. They also explore how The Open is evolving, why The R&A is asking more from its venues than ever before, and what fans can expect from a record-breaking championship on England's Golf Coast. Plus, plenty of chat about links golf, favourite Open memories, and why Royal Birkdale remains one of the game's greatest stages. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 30 · 51 min
We need to talk about trees on golf courses
Why are so many golf clubs cutting down trees? Are trees essential to the beauty and character of a course, or have they become obstacles to great golf course design? In this episode of the Top 100s Podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy tackle one of the most debated topics in modern golf architecture: trees. Inspired by a famous quote from legendary architect Alister MacKenzie, they explore the role trees play in shaping strategy, aesthetics, sustainability, and the long-term health of golf courses. Drawing on their experiences as golfers, course observers, and editors covering golf course management, Tom and Dan discuss the rise of restoration projects, the growing trend of tree removal at leading clubs, and why opinions on the subject are often deeply divided. From heathland restoration and agronomy to championship golf and environmental concerns, they examine how trees can both enhance and hinder the game and why the debate is more relevant than ever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 23 · 1 hr 3 min
Ranking the Rankings: GB&I’s Top 100 courses in 2002 compared to our latest list
In this episode, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy kick things off by reflecting on the US Open at Shinnecock Hills, discussing Wyndham Clark’s victory, the course setup, and what made the championship such a compelling watch. The main focus, however, is a fascinating look back at a Golf World Top 100 ranking from 2002. Using the historic list as a reference point, Tom and Dan explore how golf course rankings have evolved over the last two decades, asking whether modern rankings are driven by genuine improvements, changing tastes, or simply the latest trends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 16 · 40 min
A budget-friendly trip along the Welsh border: the joys of moorland golf
Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy return to the NCG Top 100s Podcast to discuss the arrival of summer golf, the impressive transformation of Moortown, and what makes a great US Open venue. They also look ahead to championship week and debate course setup, width, strategy and the challenge facing the world's best players. The main event is Dan's latest Top 100 ranking adventure through Wales, uncovering some of the country's most underrated golf courses. From the heights of West Monmouthshire to Newport, Builth Wells and beyond, the team shares stories from the road, standout holes, surprising discoveries and the courses that left the biggest impression. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 26 · 54 min
48 Hours on the Fylde Coast Podcast
Tom Irwin and Mike Robertson are in the studio to relive another instalment of the NCG Top 100 48 Hours in series — this time heading to England’s underrated golfing hotspot: the Fylde Coast. Across two packed days, the pair take on four standout courses, explore the stories behind the clubs, and reflect on why this stretch of Lancashire coastline deserves far more attention from travelling golfers. From an early-morning start at Fairhaven to the unmistakable atmosphere and history of Royal Lytham & St Annes, they break down the courses, favourite holes, standout moments and what makes this corner of the North West such a compelling golf destination. Along the way there’s plenty of chat about course architecture, Open Championship venues, local golf culture, coffee runs, first-tee nerves and life on the road filming the 48 Hours in series. Expect honest course opinions, behind-the-scenes stories and a reminder that some of the UK’s best golf trips still fly under the radar. 🎙️ Featuring: Tom Irwin & Mike Robertson ⛳ Courses: Fairhaven, Royal Lytham & St Annes, St Anne’s Old Links & Fleetwood 📍 Destination: The Fylde Coast, Lancashire 🎥 Watch the full 48 Hours on the Fylde Coast film on the NCG Top 100 YouTube channel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 19 · 43 min
Welsh Ranking Kickoff
Join Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy on the latest episode of the NCG Top 100s podcast as they dive into the upcoming Welsh golf rankings and explore what makes golf in Wales so special. From iconic links like Royal St David’s and Aberdovey to hidden moorland gems, the pair discuss the ranking process, standout courses, unforgettable golf trips, and why Wales offers some of the best value golf in Great Britain and Ireland. Along the way, they also debate modern championship course changes, Open venue architecture, and the evolving identity of elite golf. Packed with insight, humour, and plenty of course recommendations, this is essential listening for golfers planning a Welsh golf adventure or anyone fascinated by golf course architecture and rankings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 12 · 1 hr 11 min
Augusta Up Close: Breaking Down the Second Nine After the Masters
Tom and Dan return to complete their deep dive into Augusta National Golf Club, turning their attention to the legendary second nine at the Masters. Before diving in, the pair recap recent travels through North Wales, Belfast, and a fascinating look at golf course transformations and technology conferences shaping the future of the game. The main event, though, is Augusta. From the towering slopes of the 10th to the brutal demands of the 11th, they unpack how the course really plays in modern championship conditions — and challenge the long-held idea that the back nine is simply a birdie-fest waiting to happen. Along the way, they discuss Rory McIlroy’s infamous 2011 miss on 10, the evolution of Augusta’s firmness and agronomy, the relentless lengthening of the course over the decades, and why modern championship golf is increasingly being defended by firmness rather than distance. Expect plenty of architecture chat, Masters nostalgia, strategic insight, and the kind of obsessive golf course detail that only the NCG Top 100 Podcast can deliver. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 21 · 1 hr 5 min
Augusta Up Close: Breaking Down the Front Nine After the Masters
Fresh off the fairways of Augusta National, Tom Irwin is joined by Dan Murphy to relive their experience at the Masters and dive deep into one of golf’s most iconic stretches. From the deceptive opener to the drama of Amen Corner’s doorstep, Tom and Dan break down how each hole really plays, what surprised them most on the ground, and why Augusta’s subtleties are impossible to fully grasp from TV alone. Expect vivid storytelling, strategic insights, and a few behind-the-scenes moments from their time at the season’s first major. Whether you’ve walked the course yourself or only dreamed of it, this episode brings the front nine at Augusta National to life in a way you won’t hear anywhere else. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 13 · 1 hr 21 min
The 2026 Masters, turns out we were right in the first place
In this special episode of the NCG Golf Podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy look back on a captivating week at Augusta National, where Rory McIlroy cemented his place in golfing history with a second consecutive Masters victory. Having captured his maiden Green Jacket in 2025, McIlroy returned in 2026 to prove it was no one-off, holding off a relentless chasing pack to become just the fourth player ever to win back-to-back Masters titles. Tom and Dan revisit their early tournament predictions and reflect on how, despite the twists, turns, and moments of doubt throughout the week, their original instincts ultimately rang true. The episode breaks down the defining moments of the championship, the key challengers who pushed McIlroy to the limit, and the significance of joining such an exclusive club of Masters legends. They also explore what this achievement means for McIlroy’s legacy and his standing in the modern game. Tune in for expert insight, engaging analysis, and a celebration of a historic triumph at Augusta. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 12 · 41 min
Moving Day: Forget everything we said yesterday
In this Saturday edition of the NCG Golf Podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy return to reassess the ever-shifting landscape of The Masters. After the optimism surrounding Rory McIlroy’s earlier performance, moving day told a very different story. McIlroy struggled to find his rhythm, leaving the door wide open for the chasing pack. Stepping into the spotlight was Cameron Young, who produced a sensational 65 (-7) to surge up the leaderboard and ignite the tournament heading into Sunday. With momentum building behind a host of contenders, the race for the Green Jacket is suddenly wide open. Tom and Dan break down the key moments from the round, analyse what went wrong for McIlroy, and assess the growing list of challengers poised to make a Sunday charge. With Augusta National set for a thrilling finale, everything is still to play for. Tune in for expert insight, sharp analysis, and all the drama from moving day at the Masters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 11 · 42 min
Anatomy of a 65, in the company of greatness
In this special Masters edition of the NCG Golf Podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy dissect a truly memorable round from Rory McIlroy. The episode takes listeners shot-by-shot through McIlroy’s sensational performance at The Masters. The duo explore the key moments that defined the round, the strategic decisions that shaped his score, and how this display stacks up against some of Augusta National’s most iconic performances. With expert insight and passionate analysis, Tom and Dan place McIlroy’s 65 in historical context, examining what it means for his legacy and his pursuit of the Green Jacket. Whether you’re a Masters enthusiast or simply appreciate golfing excellence, this episode offers a deep dive into a round that may stand among the finest ever played at Augusta. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 10 · 51 min
Tradition Unlike Any Other: Thursday at The Masters
Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy break down all the action from an enthralling opening day at Augusta National. From standout performances and surprise contenders to the traditions and quirks that make The Masters truly unique, the duo explore the moments that only happen at Augusta. Expect sharp analysis, behind-the-scenes insights, and plenty of storytelling as the journey to the Green Jacket gets underway. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 8 · 55 min
Inside Augusta National: What It’s Really Like
Augusta National is one of the most famous venues in sport, but what is it really like beyond the perfectly manicured fairways and familiar TV shots? In this special episode of the NCG Golf Podcast, Dan Murphy and Tom Irwin take you inside the gates to share their first-hand experiences from the home of the Masters on the day before the action starts. From the subtleties of the course’s elevation changes to the scale of its most iconic holes, they cut through the usual clichés to reveal what makes Augusta National so unique. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 7 · 26 min
Dunbar Golf Club: Timeless Links, Tom Morris' Legacy & A Bold Future
In this episode of the NCG Top 100s Podcast, Tom Irwin is joined at Dunbar Golf Club by Membership Services Manager Cameron John Byrne for an in-depth look at one of Scotland’s most captivating links courses. Set on the rugged East Lothian coastline, Dunbar blends over 400 years of golfing history with a layout shaped by Old Tom Morris and refined through the ages, yet still remarkably untouched in its essence. Tom and Cameron explore what makes the course so special, from its natural routing and ever-changing winds to its dramatic sea views, unique features, and moments that truly define links golf at its purest. They also dive into Dunbar’s growing reputation on the global stage, its appeal to travelling golfers, and why it’s fast becoming a must-play alongside the region’s biggest names. Looking ahead, Cameron shares exciting insight into the club’s future: a brand-new clubhouse, a reimagined routing, and the addition of a high-quality 9-hole par-3 course—all designed to enhance the Dunbar experience while preserving its rich heritage. This is a conversation about tradition, evolution, and why Dunbar might just be one of the most authentic links experiences in the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
March 31 · 56 min
The Venues Hosting GB&I’s Biggest Amateur Events
Tom Irwin is joined by Dan Murphy to explore the host venues staging some of GB&I’s biggest amateur events this year. From the historic fairways of Royal Birkdale to the ever-influential Moortown, they look at the courses shaping the amateur calendar and what makes them worthy of the spotlight. The conversation also dives into the role these venues play in supporting young golfers and giving back to the game, highlighting how clubs across GB&I continue to nurture the next generation. Along the way, they discuss The Island in Ireland and preview the Walker Cup heading to Lahinch—two standout links that promise a true test of championship golf. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
March 24 · 54 min
Golf Course Types Explained: What Makes A Course A Links, Heathland or Parkland?
In this episode of the NCG Top 100s podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy tackle one of golf’s most misunderstood topics: how do we actually define a golf course? From links and parkland to heathland, moorland and clifftop, the pair break down the characteristics that separate each style, exploring everything from soil types and vegetation to location and design philosophy. They also dive into the often-blurred lines between categories, asking what really distinguishes a heathland course from a moorland – and whether those definitions still hold up today. Along the way, Tom and Dan discuss some well-known examples and debate where certain courses truly belong, highlighting just how subjective golf course classification can be. The episode wraps up with a quiz from Dan, putting Tom to the test as he’s challenged to categorise a selection of courses – with some trickier than others. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
March 17 · 59 min
Revealed: Where The Open Will Be Held In 2028 & Beyond
In this episode of the NCG Top 100s podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy turn their attention to one of golf’s biggest questions: where is The Open heading after St Andrews in 2027? The pair explore the future of the Open rota, discussing established venues such as Royal St George’s and Royal Troon, while also debating whether iconic courses like Portmarnock could finally join the championship’s regular host list. With the R&A continually assessing the rota, Tom and Dan consider which venues are most likely to feature in the coming years - and which might be overdue a return. Along the way, they break down what truly makes an “Open course”, from the strategic demands of links golf to the infrastructure and scale required to host one of the game’s biggest events. They also examine the growing conversation around taking the Open beyond its traditional boundaries, including the possibility of the championship heading to the Republic of Ireland for the first time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.