Open champion Paul Lawrie launches new Home Of Golf hub in St Andrews
Open Championship winner Paul Lawrie was in attendance during the launch of a new Links Trust community hub in St Andrews this week.
The golfer, who remains the last Scottish male to win a major, was joined by members of the local community during the opening of the Home of Golf Hub. The multi-functional community venue is St Andrews Links Trust’s first brick and mortar space in the centre of the town.
It aims to give the local community insight into the golf organisation through a series of exhibitions, information displays, photography events, and a retail shop.
Paul, the 1999 Open champion who triumphed at Carnoustie following a memorable play-off against Jean van de Velde and Justin Leonard, took part in a televised interview by Caroline Blair in front of a live local audience.
Paul said: “St Andrews means so much to golfers across the world and the local community alike. Introducing this new space right in the centre of town is a great opportunity to share and celebrate the history and the people that make the Home of Golf unique.
"I've enjoyed some unforgettable moments in St Andrews throughout my career, including hitting the first shot of the 150th Open Championship on the Old Course back in 2022, so it's always special to come back and explore the memories that connect me to the town and its courses."
Abigail May, aged 18, is one of Scotland's leading amateur golfers, with a string of awards to her name.
She said: “I’ve lived in St Andrews my whole life, and the Links Trust’s courses have completely shaped my golfing career. This is where I realised my passion for the sport, and I still get chills every time I play the Old Course.”
Sandra Tuddenham, chair of trustees at St Andrews Links Trust, said: “The past few days have brought together people who care deeply about St Andrews, and its past and future as the Home of Golf, to celebrate a new space that roots us in the centre of the town for the first time.”
For more information on the new hub visit the St Andrews Links Trust website.