Crail hosts first stage of golfing get-together

Co-ordinator Alan Tait, well known in Scottish golfing circles and now director of golf operations (UK) at GolPhin, is the driving force behind this great playing opportunity for Scotland’s male and female golfers.

Open to those with a four handicap or lower, players had a 10-day window to play 18 holes on eight of Scotland’s finest courses, before the final at the newly-opened Dumbarnie Links, near Upper Largo.

The opening round of eight courses began last Friday on the acclaimed Gil Hanse-designed Craighead Links course at Crail Golfing Society and host club each year to the Battle Trophy.

Play continues until this Sunday (August 9) and around 70-80 golf enthusiasts in total are expected to take part – described by Tait as “absolutely terrific”.

Other host qualifying venues include Murrayshall (August 10-19), Montrose Links (August 20-29), Duddingston (August 30 to September 8), Hayston (September 9-18), Arbroath (September 19-27, Musselburgh (September 28-October 7) and Longniddry (October 8-17).

The eight regional winners will then compete in the grand final on Sunday, October 25 at Dumbarnie Links.

Tait said the impressive numbers captured the essence of the event perfectly and it was largely about getting out and playing golf again with friends.

Many players had commented on how much they enjoyed the experience of playing again, he added, with some not having been on a course for many months.

“The great thing is that whoever tees up gets to play on eight great Scottish golf courses,” he added.

“They can choose their own partners and they have 10 days to also select a tee-time on each of the venues. They have the chance to win some great prizes, finally, with a scorecard back in their hands.”

“Though the prizes are really irrelevant, as this initiative is all about getting people back out on to Scottish golf courses for what will be a proper round of golf,” said Tait.

“If they should win something at the end of the day, then it’s a bonus and, if not, then hopefully they would have had some nice days out with the pals and their friends.

“Each of the golf clubs hosting the rounds has been so supportive and then to have Dumbarnie Links, and the UK’s newest golf course, to host the grand final is like the icing on the cake for this exciting new competition.

“And every one of the clubs acting as host understands, appreciates and values the importance of top Scottish golfers playing their course and then spreading the word about the venue.

“Ultimately, the club will benefit going forward, with increased visitor revenue and, hopefully, some new memberships.”

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