Most golfers never get to experience the thrill of hitting shots at St. Andrews, Scotland or going through Amen Corner at Augusta National or enjoy the beauty of many other famed courses worldwide.

But in Myrtle Beach, S. C., you can now get a taste of such internationally-known golf courses at The World Tour Golf Links.

This course, located just off Highway 501in the heart of Myrtle Beach, provides 27 holes patterned after 27 world-famed holes.

And many of the holes bear striking resemblances to the real thing.

When I approached a par three that was an almost mirror image of the famed No. 12 par three at Augusta National I became a real believer. The hole has the exact same sand traps, the same pond, the same distance, even the same scenic stone bridges.

This hole is just one of many look-alikes that can transport golfers to a dream round.

The layout even includes two island green par threes (English Turn and Sawgrass).

The World Tour has won both state and national honors as being among the top 50 courses in the nation.

The World Tour course describes itself this way:

"When guests drive up the magnolia lined entryway to World Tour Golf Links, they are transported to a world that most golfers only dream about. The World Tour facility is comprised of 27- holes inspired by world renowned courses, many of which have been host to championship tournaments. Augusta National, St. Andrews, Winged Foot, Oakmont, and Valderrama to name a few, are etched into the Carolina terrain, enabling golfers to sample some of the most famous layouts throughout the world all in a single day.

"The superior design and the placement of the holes flow naturally and seamlessly together creating a true championship course. World Tour is the Grand Strand's most unusual and unique golf facility with 27-holes that read like a golfer’s fantasy list. In fact, a tee time at World Tour is the equivalent of a golfing passport to some of golf’s most exclusive clubs. Guests are assured of a golfing experience like no other. All daily pressures are set aside as the guest receives a “passport” and the “tour” begins.

"As the guests arrive at the 25,000 square foot Ante-bellum clubhouse, our friendly, professional team plays a vital role in making our guests feel as if they are actually experiencing the venues that inspired the holes at World Tour. Upon check-in and receiving their Players Badge, an Ambassador trained in the art of guest services assists each group of visitors from the moment they arrive until their time of departure.

"The immaculate conditioning of all 27-holes, featuring L93 Bentgrass greens and 419 Bermuda tees, fairways and rough is overwhelming as our guests prepare for their “tour“ on the practice facility using Nike practice balls. First impressions are accented with expressions such “Awesome“ and “Incredible“ as they approach their first tee. Throughout the day the quality of the golf experience is present at every turn. Memories of legendary shots are ignited as the golfer at World Tour experiences playing those same championship holes.

"Departing, once again through the magnolia lined entryway, our guests reflect on the magnificent day with great satisfaction. A momentary escape from the challenges of society was accomplished by a day of golf like no other.

"Golf is ever present on television screens throughout the facility including a 53-inch entertainment center screen in the dining room. Group and corporate meetings may be held in the meeting room on the second floor; and once the business is out of the way, adjourn to the golf course!

Golf carts at The World Tour feature the useful GPS (global positioning) systems, letting you know at any moment your position as it relates to the hole (distance, slope, etc.). The screen also provides interesting and useful information about each hole and the history of the hole it was patterened after. For example, on number 5 of the Open Course, a replica of the 15th hole at the English Turn Golf and Country Club in New Orleans, and the digital display in your cart projects factual tidbits on the 542-yard, par-5 replica that are worthy of the famous golf writer and historian.

Each hole also has, bronzed plaques with historical data about each respective hole.

The reproduction of the famed par 5 number four at Valderamma in Spain even includes the numerous rock wall waterfalls, creating a beautiful scene (many people have even chosen to get married there).

Golf writer Patrick Jones described his visit to the The World Tour this way in part:

"Knowing that John Daly put four tee shots into the water on his way to a 12 during the 1994 Freeport-McMoran Classic on this hole's inspiration is truly interesting -- if not exactly the mental imagery that sports shrink Bob Rotella would want foremost on your cerebellum while waggling over your ball. Having that background information on the original hole (and Daly) is certainly gratifying, though, if you stay dry, roll in a putt and wind up with a mere third of Long John's carded dozen.

"No.1 on the World Tour Golf Link's Championship Course is a reproduction of the 18th hole at Winged Foot in Mamoroneck, N.Y. You don't need Ben Wright riding shotgun to learn that this was the closing hole when Bobby Jones won the U.S. Open in 1929. And that the USGA must have been on top of its punishing course-setup game that year considering Jones won the championship at 14-over-par."

Many World Tour customers not only love the unique holes, but laud the services and amenities offered as well.

The facility, opened in October 1999, is the brainchild of Charlotte-based owner Mel Graham.

The course last year was named "Best Overall Golf Course" by 3,500 participants in a Myrtle Beach Golf Magazine poll and also won for "Best Greens," "Course Consistently in Best Condition" and "Friendliest Golf Course Staff." And the course was named "2003 Golf Course of the Year" in July 2005 by the Myrtle Beach Golf Course Owners Association.

Some dress code rules apply including traditional golf attire - collared shirts, slacks, Bermuda shorts are required. The course also asks that shirts be tucked in for gentlemen. Gym shorts, swim trunks, sleeveless shirts, tank tops, denim jeans, or shorts, and bathing suits are not allowed.

World Tour fees:

Date: AM PM Extra 9 Holes
11/14/05 - 12/31/05 $100 $75 $30
01/01/06 - 2/15/06 $100 $75 $30
02/16/06 - 03/01/06 $125 $100 $35
03/02/06 - 03/15/06 $160 $130 $45
03/16/06 - 05/07/06 $185 $145 $50
5/08/06 - 05/21/06 $160 $130 $45
05/22/06 - 09/06/06 $100 $75 $30
09/07/06 - 11/12/06 $160 $130 $45
11/13/06 - 01/24/07 $100 $75 $30


*Play all 27. Additional play rate includes 9 holes & Club Car cart equipped with Uplink GPS system. Additional Nine cannot be pre-booked. Availability is limited.

For information: www.worldtourmb.com or call toll free 877-377-7773
(Local 843-236-2000)

This story was published on 17 Jan 2006.