British Open courses like Carnoustie are still cheaper than most American major championship venues and much more accessible

We here at WorldGolf.com have been whining plenty recently about the American Dollar’s weakness in Europe and the British Isles.

But honestly, this currency ineptitude is hurting my self esteem a little. I haven’t been to my old stomping ground Canada in years and to hear we’re almost equal makes me want to send some NHL teams back to Winnipeg and Quebec.

The other day, I had to toss a quarter onto the sidewalk in front of some kids just to be reassured my money is still worth something.

But that doesn’t mean British Open courses are out of reach for North Americans. In fact, they are still cheaper than many of America’s major championship venues.

A quick sampling (with estimated $USD):
Carnoustie: £115 ($235)
Turnberry: £135 ($275)
Old Course at St. Andrews: £125 ($255)

England’s Open courses are about the same:

Royal St. George’s: £120 ($245)
Royal Lytham & St. Annes: £120 ($245)
Royal Birkdale: £110-35 ($225-275)

By the way, these English clubs all offer free lunch (insert joke about how the offering of English food should mean a discount HERE).

And don’t forget Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, the Emerald Isle’s only Open venue (1951). It’s £110 ($225).

The only course in the rotation that seems too pricey is Royal Troon, which is asking £220 ($450) for a 36-hole day at their Old Course and secondary Portland course. In fact, USA Today blogger Larry Olmsted (and guest of WorldGolf.com Sweet Spots) just blasted Royal Troon for its snootiness an urges everyone to stay away.

Having to pay a 36-hole rate seems like too much of a commitment, considering if players want to do a 36-hole day, it should be Troon and next-door neighbor Prestwick, which hosted the original British Opens but is too short and quirky for a modern Open.

There are probably golf packagers who can get around this, however.

Then there’s the American major venues (that are public, at least)

Whistling Straits: $300 plus $60 mandatory caddie.
Pebble Beach: $475
Pinehurst No. 2: $319
Ocean Course, Kiawah Island: $245

America’s two feathers in the cap however:
Torrey Pines (South): $181
Bethpage Black: $120 (non-resident)

That isn’t of course including the legions of private clubs that have scored numerous majors. I’ve gone on blue-collar crusades in this blog in the past and right now I just don’t have the energy for it.

But just remember, even if you think $250 is a little steep to play a round of golf, you’re paying even more or can’t play at all most of America’s major venues.