Hopes hang on trio of area's top golfers

The club’s duo are not the only local interest in the prestigious tournament, with Ladybank’s Susan Jackson also lining up.

The competition has an international feel, with competitors coming from all corners of the globe, including France, Belgium and Australia, in a bid to win it.

Last year’s winner of the 54-hole women’s open tournament at St Andrews, 17-year-old Indian Aditi Ashok, has turned professional since her victory by five strokes.

But Bristol’s Bethan Popel, who was runner-up 12 months ago, is in the international field again.

So too is Carnoustie Ladies’ Jess Meek who won a title play-off against Annelle Carnet (France) in this tournament two years ago.

A past winner of the Scottish U21 girls title, Jess is a student at Missouri University.

It will be interesting to see Rochelle Morris (Woodsome Hall) in action.

The Yorkshire player will be making her GB and I debut in the 39th Curtis Cup match against the Americans at Dun Laoghaire GC, near Dublin, from June 10 to 12.

Another Yorkshire competitor to keep an eye on will be Olivia Winning from Rotherham.

She scored her second win in the Helen Holm Scottish women’s open amateur stroke play championship at Troon a few weeks back.

Playing in Scotland must bring out the best in her.

The St Rule Trophy tournament has gone from strength to strength since it was introduced in 1984.

This will be its 33rd staging.

Arguably the most famous winner of the event was Sweden’s Annika Sorentstam in 1990.

That was one of her last appearances as an amateur.

She went on to become one of the most successful professionals on the United States’ LPGA Tour before retiring prematurely to get married and start her own family.

The first two rounds are over the New Course at St Andrews on Saturday.

The third and final round is over the Old Course on Sunday.

There is no cut.