St Andrews shines behind closed doors on European Tour

It was an event unlike any other witnessed at the home of golf in its long history.
By Scott Inglis
Published 22nd Oct 2020, 09:18 BST
Updated 22nd Oct 2020, 11:32 BST
Adrian Otaegui of Spain poses with the trophy following his victory during day four of the Scottish Championship presented by AXA at Fairmont St Andrews. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)Adrian Otaegui of Spain poses with the trophy following his victory during day four of the Scottish Championship presented by AXA at Fairmont St Andrews. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Adrian Otaegui of Spain poses with the trophy following his victory during day four of the Scottish Championship presented by AXA at Fairmont St Andrews. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

But that didn’t stop the inaugural Scottish Championship from making a positive impression as St Andrews shone in front of the TV cameras.

The European Tour event, played overthe Fairmont’s Torrance Course, rounded off the tour’s second UK Swing but, sadly, wasn’t open to spectators due to restrictions.

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Normally, when the tour arrives in town the community is buzzing with fans, players and caddies all mingling in the pubs, restaurants and streets of the sport’s birthplace.

That’ll all have to wait for the time being, though, with Ryder Cup star Lee Westwood amongst those admitting it made for a strange atmosphere.

He said: “There’s no going into the town or into the Jigger for a pint.

“You turn up, test, pass, go into the hotel, practise, go to the gym. There are other ways of occupying your time which are probably more beneficial to members of the tour than going for a pint. It’s clinical, no crowds to create that atmosphere, but needs must in certain cases.”

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The tournament was won by Spaniard Adrián Otaegui, who stretched away on the final day to win by four.

The Fairmont has hosted big events in the past, and Westwood said the course was a welcome addition to the tour.

He added: “You’re not going to see better greens all year. They’re absolutely immaculate.

“I think they’re some of the best links greens I’ve ever seen.”

Otaegui won the event ahead of Englishmen Matt Wallace and Aaron Rai.

Related topics:St AndrewsLee WestwoodTV cameras

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