Golf
When you think of golf in Scotland the first thing that comes to mind is St Andrews and the Old Course, the home of golf and the host of the Open Championship.
The Old Course in St Andrews, on the east cost, is where golf has been nurtured and developed for more than 600 years. The R&A, which assumes responsibility for the game and its rules, on behalf of over 30 million golfers, in 126 countries around the world, is also based in the town.
Scotland’s champion golfer
Martin Laird is one of Scotland’s most successful young golfers. He won his maiden PGA Tour event in October 2009 – the first Scot to do so on US soil since Sandy Lyle won the Masters in 1988. He’s a regular high finisher on the Tour and is set for future successes in the game. Other Scots playing on the professional tours include Stephen Gallacher, Paul Lawrie and Richie Ramsay.
Joining a golf club
From elite private members club to council-run courses, where you pay by the round, you’re never far away from a golf course in Scotland. There are more than 500 different Scottish courses to choose from; from Shetland’s Asta course, to the Scarista course on the island of Harris, to courses in Alloa and Braehead.
There are two types of golf courses in Scotland – those restricted to club members and courses owned by the government, or municipal courses.
A large proportion of Scottish golfers play at municipal golf courses. Municipal courses offer great value for money and let you play on a pay-per-round system.
When you become a member of golf club you get unlimited access to the green. Men’s, women’s, junior, senior and associate memberships are available for mostly all of Scotland’s golf courses.
Before playing in official club competitions, and on other courses, you must have an official handicap. This is easily acquired from a golf club affiliated with the Scottish Golf Union/Golfing Association - the governing body for amateur golf in Scotland. The association issues official handicaps and regulates golf clubs and golf competition around the country.
Most clubs host regular weekend and midweek competitions between members and through other clubs and once you have your official handicap you’re free to compete.
Local club houses are great places for socialising and getting involved with your local community.
Scotland’s Clubgolf Programme
In 2003, Scotland’s Clubgolf Programme came into effect. The initiative helps children in Scotland to develop their golfing skills. Run in collaboration with PGA coaches, children get the chance to improve the skills, coordination and confidence through the sport.
More on Scotland’s golf courses
More on the R&A
The official home of Scottish golf
More on Scotland’s Clubgolf Programme
Martin Laird on YouTube