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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27 episodes
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Avg 55 min
English

Episodes 27

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Tuesday · 50 min
What are the best golf club logos – and how should you wear them?
What makes a great golf club logo? Is it the design, the history, the story behind the badge – or simply the prestige of the name? In this episode of the NCG Top 100s Podcast, host Dan Murphy is joined by George Peper, former editor-in-chief of Golf Magazine and author of The Best Logos in Golf, to explore the phenomenon of us golfers and our ever-growing collections of elite merch. George explains what separates a memorable logo from the rest and how he helped compile a ranking of the best in golf. George and Dan also discuss the etiquette of sporting your logo(s). What are the dos and don’ts when it comes to making sure your playing partners know where you have been? Is it acceptable to mix-and-match your logos? When does sharing your pride at playing a great course cross over into insufferable boastfulness? Is it ever acceptable to don a logo of a course that you haven’t played yourself – even if it was a thoughtful gift? Oh – and why is the Masters logo reduced to footnote status in the book? It’s a fascinating look at the stories, traditions and identities that make golf clubs special, and why a great logo can mean so much more than a name on a shirt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
October 6 · 1 hr
Which links is more natural: Machrihanish or Machrihanish Dunes?
Dan Murphy and Tom Irwin jostle for hosting duties as the latter recounts his recent trip to the tip of the remote Kintyre peninsula in south-west Scotland. They discuss the scale – and importance – of the journey to what could be Scotland’s most remote major golfing destination. Tom then holds forth on his experiences at first Machrihanish Dunes, then Dunaverty and finally Machrihanish: three very different links experiences yet each of them stirring the soul. Their evocative discussion covers Machrihanish Dunes’ outrageous green sites and gently roiling fairways, the sheer and elemental simplicity of Dunaverty and the front nine at Machrihanish that might just be the equal of any stretch of holes in the links canon. Two of these courses date back a century and a half while Mach Dunes is yet to celebrate its 20th birthday – but you would not necessarily know it. A trip to Kintyre goes well beyond simply playing these three contrasting seaside courses – the landscape, remoteness and sense of discovery all play a huge part in the experience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
September 29 · 52 min
Machrihanish Dunes: Possibly the most natural links course in the world
NCG Top 100s host Tom Irwin is joined by James Parker, Course Manager at Machrihanish Dunes, to explore one of Scotland’s newest links courses – but also one that feels like it could be among the very oldest. Set on the Kintyre Peninsula in the very south-western tip of Scotland, Machrihanish Dunes is nearer to Antrim than it is to Ayrshire. This is a course that was discovered in the landscape rather than built from scratch. James explains the philosophy behind its natural routing, how its architect David McLay Kidd approached the project and why so little of the original site was disturbed during construction. Tom and James also discuss what makes Machrihanish Dunes so different from more polished modern golf destinations, the importance of its rugged landscape, and the role sheep and grazing play in managing the course and supporting biodiversity. They also look at the wider Kintyre golf scene, the changing appeal of remote links destinations and how Machrihanish Dunes has found a place among the most spiritual of modern golf courses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
September 22 · 46 min
NCG Top 100s: 48 Hours in… Le Touquet and Hardelot
From a last-minute journey that goes spectacularly wrong to the relaxed surroundings of Le Touquet, our intrepid trio of travellers crossed La Manche for the latest episode of 48 Hours In… For this episode of the pod, Tom Irwin is joined by his playing partners Tom Bullough and James Sparkes to look back on the trip and reflect on the golf, the food and the off-camera moments. That includes their visits to some of northern France’s most special golfing venues, including Le Touquet’s La Forêt and Hardelot’s Les Pins. They discuss what makes them so special, and reveal why one course in particular left a lasting impression. Beyond that, we all need to know about Flexi Plus, a broken-down car, a wasp in the hotel room and plenty of the usual 48 Hours In chaos. Find out what really makes these French golf courses worth the trip. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
September 8 · 50 min
How’s it lying, Clive? Meet the golfer, broadcaster and Dumbarnie Links architect Clive Clark
In this special episode, Dan Murphy jumps into the hosting hotseat to chat to golfing royalty Clive Clark, who has enjoyed a fascinating career as an elite golfer and course architect. Clive is a member of a very rare club who have played in both the Walker and Ryder Cups. He also made 10 Open appearances, with a best finish of third in 1967, and played alongside Jack Nicklaus when the great man won his second Claret Jug at St Andrews in 1970. Clive went on to work for the BBC golf commentary team where he was invariably brought into the conversation with the question: ‘How’s it lying, Clive?’ He continued his long-time friendship with Peter Alliss to design golf courses alongside him. He has designed more than 30 courses around the world – including Dumbarnie Links in Fife. Clive discusses the creation of Dumbarnie, from the original vision for the course to its modern risk-and-reward design. They discuss what makes a genuine links site, why playability and strategy are so important, and why Clive believes golfers should have to use “what’s between the ears” to score well at a well-designed course. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
September 1 · 59 min
48 Hours in Finland: Is This Golf’s Next Big Destination?
Tom Irwin is joined by Mike Robertson and Tom Bullough to look back on their recent adventure in Finland, where they spent 48 hours travelling, filming and discovering some of the country's best golf. The trip got off to a chaotic start, with delayed flights, a three-hour drive after landing in Helsinki and just a few hours' sleep before the filming began. From there, the team packed as much into the trip as possible, with long drives, spectacular scenery, midnight-sun conditions and plenty of golf along the way. Mike and Tom talk Tom Irwin through the courses they played, the unique landscapes and conditions they encountered, and what surprised them most about Finnish golf. They also discuss why Finland could be an exciting alternative for golfers looking for something different from the more traditional European golf destinations. Plus, there are plenty of stories from behind the scenes of filming the latest 48 Hours In... episode, including the realities of trying to fit so much into just two days. The full 48 Hours in Finland film is available on the NCG Top 100s YouTube channel 🎥: https://youtu.be/fya0W3UK3cQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
August 11 · 1 hr 19 min
Why One of England's Shortest Top 100 Courses Is Also One of Its Best
Formby Ladies Golf Club is unlike anywhere else in golf. At under 5,400 yards, it's easy to underestimate, but as course manager Rob Sandilands explains, that would be a big mistake. Steve Carroll sits down with Rob to discuss the remarkable transformation of one of England's Top 100 courses, from habitat restoration and sustainable greenkeeping to managing extreme weather and changing how golfers experience a course. They also explore why shorter golf courses deserve far more respect, the unique history of the world's oldest independent women's golf club, and the behind-the-scenes work that has helped make Formby Ladies one of the country's most celebrated golfing destinations. If you've ever wondered what really goes into creating a world-class golf course, or why length isn't everything, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 31 · 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.

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