50 YEARS AT THE HOME OF GOLF 1974-2024
THE STORY OF STANDREWS LINKS TRUST
FOREWORD
2024 was a special year for StAndrews Links Trust, with the organisation celebrating 50 years of being custodians for the most important parcel of land in all of golf.
In the historic lifespan of the links of StAndrews, 50 years is but a blink of an eye with the origins of golf dating back more than six centuries on the land which is now host to six of the seven golf courses operated by the Links Trust.
But since the inception of the Links Trust in 1974, the past 50 years has been as important as any other period in the history of the Links, with significant development and growth in the global renown of StAndrews and its golf courses.
What started with a handful of staff based in portakabins perched on the Bruce Embankment has grown into an operation which employs up to 400 during high season to run the most iconic venue in golf and one which significantly contributes to the prosperity of the town of StAndrews as well as the regional and national tourism economy.
Under the management of the Links Trust, the site has seen the addition of three new golf courses in the Castle, Strathtyrum and Balgove, the renovation of the Jubilee and Eden, the development of a state-of-the-art golf academy and practice facility, the erection of three new clubhouses and three industry-leading greenkeeping centres.
Aside from the playing of golf, there has also been significant engagement and support of the local community with the introduction of the StAndrews Links Junior Golf Association (SALJGA), the management and protection of the West Sands through the West Sands Rangers team, the development of a global retail operation to promote the renown of the StAndrews brand, and the donation of more than £1 million to the StAndrews Community Trust through the benefit of commercial endeavours.
It has been an honour for me to serve as chief executive during the 50th year of the Links Trust and I’m proud to see the dedication and commitment from the team across the Links on a daily basis in constantly striving to improve what we offer. Whether an individual is here for three months or 30 years, the importance of the Links Trust in maintaining, preserving and improving the Links for the benefit of all is a source of pride and motivation for every member of staff.
In celebrating our 50th year and collating this brochure, it has afforded us the opportunity to look back on previous successes and challenges and I hope you enjoy doing the same. Everyone associated with the Links Trust can be proud of its achievements over the past 50 years, evidenced by the significant developments outlined in this publication.
Collectively we very much look forward to the next 50 years and beyond, ensuring we deliver a product befitting our title as the Home of Golf, preserving this most sacred of sites and delivering on our charitable objectives to increase public participation in sport.
Neil Coulson Chief Executive
CONTENTS
Foreword
The Story of the Links
50 Years of Innovation
Keepers of the Sacred Links
The StAndrews Links Experience Clubhouses
Retail
The Golf Academy Community Sustainability Tournaments
The 50th Year of StAndrews Links Trust
Acknowledgements
StAndrews Links Trust would like to extend our thanks to Roger McStravick, Chic Harper and the University of StAndrews Libraries and Museums for their contributions to this brochure.
THE STORY OF THE LINKS
St Andrews has been a place of pilgrimage for over 1,000 years, with people travelling just to be near the bones of apostle Saint Andrew that lay in the cathedral. From time immemorial, the people of StAndrews have enjoyed the open common land for recreation that was gifted and ratified in successive charters throughout the centuries by kings, queens and archbishops. Golfers have strolled the StAndrews links for almost 600 years.
In the era of Tom Morris from the 1820s the links were relatively quiet. Early Spring meetings of the Society of StAndrews Golfers, later called The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of StAndrews (R&A), would only have around 40 gentlemen golfers. There were less than ten courses in the entire country. Caddies would loiter around Davie and then Allan Robertson’s golf parlour, the solitary house then by the 18th green, hoping for a chance to carry clubs (no bag) for a golfer. With no pressure on the links, tees could be placed two yards from the pin. Locals, students, professors and the occasional visitor would play freely. It was not an elite game. As it remains to this day, golf in StAndrews was a game for all – that is the spirit of StAndrews.
Originally 22 holes, the first evidence of 18 hole golf being played on the Old Course dates to 1764 in the R&A Silver Club Challenge. It would take another 100 years for this format to become established more widely within the game.’
The original StAndrews links was 22 holes but the Society of StAndrews Golfers, who took care of the links, cut down the opening four holes to two, to make an 18-hole course. Golf was growing in the 1800s and when new golf clubs were creating their links, they wished to emulate ancient StAndrews. That is why we all play 18 holes. It was the best layout for the land at StAndrews and certainly nothing to do with whisky shots in a glass!
The course back then was played in reverse until the 1870s.
As the game grew, thanks to the new trainline, the surge in Victorian tourism, and the falling cost of golf equipment, StAndrews links became more and more popular. The sleepy links of yesteryear were a mere shadow of the past. To accommodate the congestion on the links, the New Course was created in 1895, followed by the Jubilee in 1897.
Today, StAndrews is a place where traditions and heritage sit side by side with modern green keeping technology and state-of-the-art facilities.
The echoes of those early golfers still reverberate around the links. Be it heroic moments, like Seve punching the air on the 18th on winning The Open in 1984 or Allan Robertson chipping in off the road behind the 17th in 1858 when a match looked all but lost, so much has changed, and yet so very little.
The first tee was beside the closing green. They would play down to today’s 17th green, over the land where the houses are today, as their first hole. The back nine is largely the same today as it was back then.
THE ACTS
Although historically owned by the town, the Old Course at StAndrews was kept in good order for many years by the Society of StAndrews Golfers, later to become The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of StAndrews.
The town council regained the ownership of the links within the 1894 Act, including the New Course. It was thereafter managed by the Green Committee of the StAndrews Links, which consisted of two persons designated by the council and five members of the R&A.
The 1913 Act tried to address the ever-growing problems of congestion on the links. Fees to play the New Course had driven multitudes to play the Old, while the Jubilee was initially only for ladies. Legendary golf course architect Harry Colt was employed to lay out the Eden course, which was ready for play on 4 July 1914.
Permission to allow the R&A to extend their clubhouse was granted in the 1924 Act. The 1932 Act allowed the council to charge gate money for events, which was contra to the locals’ ancient rights, but was needed to control crowds.
The biggest change came in the 1946 Act, when the town took over a share of the costs for the upkeep of the links, with the R&A still carrying the largest burden. The Act also allowed the council to charge locals, to a limit of £2, for the first time for their golf.
The town and R&A agreed to manage the links jointly for the first time with the 1953 Agreement. The Green Committee of StAndrews Links and the Town Links Committee, which managed the Eden and Jubilee alone, combined to form the Joint Links Committee. It would have equal numbers of five R&A members and five nominated by the town council.
The 1967 Act removed the limit on what could be charged for spectators to events like The Open, reflecting the times. Due to the rise of legends like Palmer and Nicklaus, combined with global TV coverage, The Open had grown exponentially and it was imperative for the R&A to be able to raise revenue to meet those costs.
Golf is still not played on the Old Course on a Sunday. This dates back to Old Tom’s era, when Tom insisted the course needed a rest.
ST ANDREWS LINKS TRUST – INCEPTION
When town councils were in the course of being abolished in the 1970s in accordance with Lord Wheatley’s report on local governance in Scotland, there was a fear that the rich heritage of StAndrews would be lost on a larger and somewhat distant authority.
The StAndrews golf clubs were determined that the management of the links should be taken over by an independent links trust, who would take over from the Joint Links Committee. The council duly petitioned Parliament.
Consequently, as part of the 1974 Links Act, the StAndrews Links Trust and the StAndrews Links Management Committee were created. The Trust consists of an eight-member committee who are Trustees of the StAndrews Links Trust. Three members are nominated by the council, three members are from the R&A, one nomination is of the Secretary of State, and the final one is a local MP.
The Management Committee has four members of the R&A and four nominated by the local authority. Local clubs are invited to fill two Council places on the committee and all those appointed to the Management Committee should have close ties to StAndrews.
Within the 1974 Act, the R&A were relieved of any obligation to maintain the Old and the New.
In 1996, North East Fife District Council was replaced by Fife Council, but in essence the structures of the Trust and management committee have remained largely intact to this day. In other words, the local clubs still have control of their ancient links.
The control and management of the StAndrews golf courses has formally been handed over to the StAndrews Links Trust and Management Committee. Pictured here are the Trustees (from left) Sir John Gilmour MP Mr D. Forrester, Sir Norman Graham (Chairman), Sir William Walker and Mr T. T. Fordyce.
Today, the StAndrews Links Trust is a registered charity and, with over 400 staff during peak season, seven courses, a golf academy and three clubhouses, it manages an operation considerably larger than the days when Allan Robertson tended to the greens with his dog, Tell.
The links of StAndrews we know today owes its existence to the upkeep by those of the early days. From Davie Robertson, to his son Allan, Old Tom Morris and the Society of StAndrews Golfers, the preservation of the sacred links has always been paramount. This has continued under the management of the StAndrews Links Trust for the last half century.
Revered as a place of golfing pilgrimage, it is simply the Home of Golf.
Mr Robert Buchanan, the first Executive Secretary of the Links Management Committee.
The Management Committee (from left) Mr Ian Joy, Mr G. P. Adam, Sir Alistair Denny, Mr A. C. Rutherford, Mr David Jamieson, Mr William P. Robertson and Mr G. H. C. Sprot.
50 YEARS OF INNOVATION
Golf has probably been played on the links from the 1400s, coinciding with the foundation of the town’s university in 1413. From Prime Ministers to Presidents, from golfing heroes to royalty, the feeling that you are walking in the footsteps of history surrounds the first tee.
THE OLD COURSE c1400
In 1974, the Old Course was welcoming the likes of Jack Nicklaus, who would become Open Champion under the Trust’s first Open in 1978. The golden summer links have since been improved with cutting edge course management. The StAndrews Links Trust has won numerous awards for its sustainability and environmental programmes. Ongoing work with Toro ensures that the links receive the best-in-class solutions for turf maintenance and irrigation.
The course has evolved too over the last 50 years, including a new championship tee on 17, a new bunker on 9, and a lowering of the green on 11 to allow golfers to putt from the same position as Bobby Jones.
Just as it did in Old Tom’s day, the Old Course constantly evolves.
David Honeyman, Tom Morris’ assistant, actively worked on the tricky green complexes. He was said to have been a master of this art and so it proved to be. In fact, what looks like an uphill putt is probably downhill!
The double greens were added in the 1850s, thanks to Allan Robertson and others, but the one on the Hole O’Cross 5th hole, was much earlier.
Thank you for giving my family, friends as well as myself the opportunity to experience one of the greatest joys in our lives. To golf where the greats have golfed. To walk the same paths as our heroes.”
Dr. Joe Favia, Visiting Golfer
NEW COURSE 1895
Although Benjamin Hall Blyth from Edinburgh was credited for managing the process of laying out the New Course in 1895, it is undoubtedly true that a Committee of the R&A with the aid of Tom Morris did the actual layout. From day one, the press hailed it saying, ‘It goes without saying that the round could not have been better laid out, for none know better than those in whose hands the work was left what a first class green ought to be’.
The New Course was opened on 10 April 1895 and was termed ‘the New’ to differentiate it from the already existing course, henceforth to be known as ‘the Old’. Now well into its second century, it is probably the oldest new course in the world.
In the last 50 years, very little has changed routing-wise, so when you play the New, you are walking the links of Old Tom.
The green on the challenging par 3, 9th hole, perched above the Eden Estuary is typical of the New’s sweeping and undulating green complexes.
At StAndrews, there are two other excellent courses – the New and the Eden … which, if they were not overshadowed by the Old Course, would probably be considered the best in Britain.”
Alister MacKenzie, The Spirit of StAndrews, writing in 1933.
JUBILEE COURSE 1897
With traffic on the links increasing year after year, Town Councillor and Provost Ritchie Welch suggested a third course exclusively for ladies. The 12-hole course was created in 1897 in honour of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, under the good guidance of Tom Morris and set out by John Angus Jnr, with a provision that it could be extended to 18 holes, which happened a few years later. Willie Auchterlonie made alterations in 1946, which explains the name of the first hole.
After the StAndrews Links Trust took over, the course was converted into a championship course in 1988 by Donald Steel. More than 500 yards were added to its length, producing a course of 6,805 yards. The re-designed Jubilee Course re-opened for play in July 1989 and is today considered the toughest of all the links courses.
In 1974, there were around 45,000 rounds of golf across the four courses. Today there are over 250,000 across seven courses per year.
Bill Cowgill, Visiting Golfer “
My favourite hole in all of Scotland is the 15th of the Jubilee. Love the large hillock on the right. Fabulous golf hole!”
DID YOU KNOW?
The opening hole on today’s Eden was originally a shorter par 3, and if you find the tee box on the right of the fairway, you will see a classic Harry Colt short golf hole.
The front nine of the Eden Course are some of the best holes in golf!”
Tom Watson, eight-time Major Championship winner “
EDEN COURSE 1914
Legendary architect Mr Harry S. Colt designed the original Eden in 1914. The course started at the end of today’s driving range and, with trains going past, golfers needed to cross over a wooden railway bridge. This all changed in 1969 when the trains stopped.
In 1989, under StAndrews Links Trust management, the layout was modified by Donald Steel, with the opening holes being taken over by a driving range and practice area, now known as the StAndrews Links Golf Academy.
It remains today, as it was in 1914, one of the most popular links courses amongst locals. Whilst not a long course, Harry Colt’s green complexes are some of the most undulating on the Links, resulting in a superb and charming test of golf for all abilities.
BALGOVE COURSE 1993
The Balgove today is a delight for anyone wishing to play a quick game of golf for an hour or so, but it was originally designed in 1972 as a course for the children of StAndrews.
Following changes to the Eden course in 1989, the land was taken over and the Links Trust gave a promise that a redesigned Balgove Course would be constructed in the future.
Designed by Donald Steel, the new course opened in 1993 with the addition of bunkers and intricate greens. It remains the only 9-hole course at the Home of Golf and is popular amongst all levels of golfers.
Since 1974, the StAndrews Links Trust has created or redesigned three new courses substantively.
The Balgove holds a special place in the hearts of a generation of young golfers here in StAndrews. A place for laughter, fun and learning, and the first steps for many SALJGA members since its inception. It really is the perfect course to begin the journey into golf.”
David Watt, Golf Academy Operations Manager & SALJGA Coordinator
STRATHTYRUM COURSE 1993
If the Balgove was for the children, the Strathyrum was originally created for the older players who wanted a gentler round of golf. Also designed by Steel, and opened one month after the new Balgove in 1993, the course is extremely popular.
In 2004, medal tees were introduced by the Links Management Committee and the number of bunkers increased to 15. Today, the greens staff are further supported by a team of full-time mechanics, irrigation technicians, and an operations manager who looks after greenkeeper training, research and development, recruitment and tournament support.
With the opening of the Balgove and Strathtyrum courses, the number of holes available for golfers in StAndrews rose to 99, making it the largest golf complex in Europe.
Affectionately known as the ‘Strath’, the Strathtyrum Course is immensely popular with locals and frequently used for local club competitions.
From a low staff base looking after the Eden, Balgove and Strathtyrum, there are now managed by 14 greenkeepers, 2 course supervisors, a courses manager, deputy courses manager, head groundsman, 3 groundsmen and a manager for the turf nursery.
THE CASTLE COURSE 2008
Once again, in the 1990s, the congestion on the existing links was creating a problem. With Alan McGregor as Chair, the StAndrews Links Trust sought planning permission in 2003, following a consultation period with local planners, to build a new course.
Twenty golf course architect firms applied for the chance to design the new links. Renowned architect David McLay Kidd was chosen and started construction in 2005, with his right-hand man Paul Kimber remaining on site throughout.
Opening in 2008, The Castle Course offers stunning views over StAndrews and the North Sea. Winning a multitude of awards, it is the sort of course where it almost doesn’t matter how you play, you will always enjoy the scenic experience.
With two loops of nine, this championship course also enjoys custom from golfers who only wish to play 9 holes followed by lunch.
The 17th hole has also won awards for being the best par 3 in the country. Running along the edge of the cliff, this par 3 looks perilous, but locals will tell you how the ball feeds in from the left, so is not as intimidating as it first appears. It is simply a beautiful golf hole.
Hailed as spectacular, the sweeping fairways and greens of The Castle Course, in addition to its strategic bunkering, present a modern and compelling test of links golf.
There are 9 greenkeepers, a course supervisor, course manager and deputy course manager on The Castle Course.
Golf World “
The most eagerly awaited new course in the world. An instant classic.”
The ancient rock formation known as the Rock and Spindle is visible from the tee of the dramatic par 3, 17th hole. It lends its name to the restaurant in the clubhouse, which affords breathtaking views of Fife’s rugged coastline.
Andy Gee, Visiting Golfer “
Golfing on the edge of paradise, with views to die for. What more can you ask for?”
KEEPERS OF THE SACRED LINKS
Since 1974, there have been only five people who have been in overall charge of the links. When the Links Supervisor of StAndrews John Campbell resigned in 1974, Walter Woods was the Trust’s next appointee until 1995. He was followed by Ian Forbes (1996-2000), Gordon Moir (Oct 2000-2018) and today, Sandy Reid.
From the days when the links had the support of hundreds of sheep, who kept the grass short, greenkeeping has also undergone a complete transformation in terms of both environmental approaches and technological advancements.
Old Tom Morris could only have dreamt of the staffing and equipment being used today to take care of the ancient links.
Over the last 50 years since the Trust took over, there are now ten times more staff, with StAndrews Links Trust staff numbers growing to around 400 during peak summer season.
existed long before golf. They were naturally formed mounds that the winds had worn away. In these natural sandy hallows, sheep and cattle would rest or sleep.
Bunkers
Pioneered by Old Tom Morris, topdressing has stood the test of time.
From one old mower on the four courses, the links today has four per course and six on the Old. Improvements in technology and approaches include:
• GPS robot and hybrid mowers
• Re-cycled environmentally friendly Astro turf bunkers
• ‘No spray’ areas to protect flowers, wildlife and natural habitats
• Advanced water management with precise digital measurements to prevent overwatering
• Open wispy grass allowing birds to nest
• Measuring the nutrient value of grass clippings that can be efficiently applied when needed
• Irrigation of greens that can be done with air and water injection
• Wetting agents on the grass that hydrates and maximises the efficiency of water usage
• Use of modern grass seed that is disease resistant and drought tolerant
• Fertilisers that can last an entire season with one spray
John Campbell, Links Supervisor of StAndrews, riding a powered sand rake.
The Eden Centre was opened in 1996 by Viscount Whitelaw, and stores the equipment for the Eden, Strathtyrum and Balgove.
The upgraded Jubilee Centre has all the equipment for the Old, New and Jubilee. Together they are ranked as the best greenkeeping facilities in the world.
This comprehensive, scientific and environmentally focussed strategy ensures that the future of the links is assured.
Who could have imagined a future when a complex golf course irrigation system could be managed with a phone?”
Gordon Moir, former Director of Greenkeeping at StAndrews
Links Trust
The StAndrews Links Trust has kept the links sustainable for the future and has won numerous awards for its green credentials and ground-breaking environmental ethos.
• 2003 BIGGA Award environmental competition
• 2009 Sports Turf Research Institute Environment Award
• 2011 First Open to achieve GEO Certified status
• StAndrews Preservation Trust award for Outstanding Design for the Castle Clubhouse
• 2024 Sustainable Project of the Year, Scottish Golf Tourism Awards
Greenkeeping has become undeniably more scientific over the last 50 years. It is the active analysis of the ecological data that allows the StAndrews Links Trust to routinely fine tune its management of the golf courses.
THEN AND NOW …
Number of courses 4 7
Number of lawnmowers 4 70
Number of f/t greens staff 6 87
Number of staff peak season 20 400
There are now around 27 greenkeepers working on the Old, New and Jubilee, 3 course supervisors, a courses manager, a deputy courses manager, and all overseen by the Director of Greenkeeping. Greenkeeping staff at the AIG Women’s Open.
KEEPER OF THE GREEN
In 2023, Jon Wood became the 10th ‘keeper of the green’ of the Old Course at StAndrews since 1864, carrying on the historic lineage from Old Tom Morris, who is credited with much of the design of the Old Course during his tenure from 1864 to 1904.
Jon took over the role from Gordon McKie, who served as Course Manager for the previous 16 years, during which time he welcomed multiple championships, including the Open Championships in 2010, 2015 and The 150th Open in 2022, two Women’s Opens in 2007 and 2013 and the Senior Open Championship in 2018.
Today, Gordon remains at the Links Trust as Greenkeeping Operations Manager, whilst Jon is responsible for the daily maintenance of the Old Course, and the New and Jubilee courses, both of which opened during Old Tom’s time.
Jon Wood (left) takes over from Gordon McKie (right) in 2023 as Keeper of the Green.
THE ST ANDREWS LINKS EXPERIENCE
From the days when the starter wheeled up an old bathing hut to the first tee on the Old and welcomed golfers from there, to today’s checking-in service at the Old Pavilion, coupled with the fine dining offerings in the clubhouses, the standard of facilities and the levels of service at StAndrews links has grown over the last 50 years.
Today, StAndrews Links is home to a halfway house, three clubhouses, five retail stores, a world-class Golf Academy and more, each catering to thousands every year.
HALFWAY HOUSES
Back in the 1800s, old Daw Anderson, father to thrice Open Champion, Jamie Anderson, would wheel his wicker basket cart out to the 4th hole of the Old and serve ginger beer. His cart was a defacto mobile golf shop with clubs, balls and perhaps something stronger than ginger beer.
Today, in the spirit of old Daw, the halfway house offers an array of sandwiches and drinks that celebrate Scotland’s larder.
The Castle Course also has a halfway house, offering hot and cold food. It is the perfect chance to recuperate and refresh before venturing back onto the links.
CLUBHOUSES
THE LINKS CLUBHOUSE
In 1974, there were few facilities beyond the magic of the links, with golfers getting changed in the car parks. This changed in 1995 when the Links Clubhouse opened and today the StAndrews Links Trust offers golfers and visitors alike the best of Scottish fayre.
The Links Clubhouse serves not only golfers playing the Old, New and Jubilee, but also visitors who can savour Scottish casual dining to the backdrop of a gallery in honour of Tom Morris in the Tom Morris Bar & Grill. The friendly clubhouse enjoys views over the historic links. Golfing facilities include The Links Clubhouse Shop, lockers and equipment hire.
All four of us had the best time ever during our StAndrews experience; the way StAndrews Links treated us and the service provided was second to none.”
StAndrews Links Winter Package Golfers, February 2024
THE EDEN CLUBHOUSE
The Eden Clubhouse opened its doors on Wednesday 1st March 2000, ideally placed for golfers playing the Eden, Strathtyrum and Balgove Courses, with the StAndrews Links Golf Academy just a short walk away. The Eden Clubhouse compliments the existing Links Clubhouse and offers an array of golfing facilities, Scottish fayre lunches at Cafe Spike, and a newly-opened Eden retail store.
The Eden Clubhouse is also home to a room that is allocated specifically for junior golfers, providing a safe space for young golfers to socialise.
THE CASTLE COURSE CLUBHOUSE
With a beautiful circular glass front, the award-winning Castle Clubhouse offers the finest views over StAndrews and the North Sea. Scottish gastropub dishes of handmade burgers, fresh fish and chips, mussels and fine, local ales await in the Rock & Spindle restaurant, whilst just outside is a practice area. Seating is also available outside to truly enjoy the vistas.
It truly is a special place, and is not just for golfers.
RETAIL
The pilgrimage to StAndrews has evolved significantly over the past 50 years. The courses, the town and its inhabitants often reflect the golfing trends and fashion of the day with a first-class retail experience an integral part of the StAndrews experience. Whether it be trying the latest golf equipment, picking up fashion items or stocking up on golf balls before a round, StAndrews has always been a special place for golfers to shop.
Sitting adjacent to the 18th green of the Old Course is the flagship store of StAndrews Links Trust, The Old Course Shop, on the former site of clubmaker to the King, Robert Forgan’s original workshop. Directly to its right is the oldest golf shop in the world, where Old Tom Morris worked when he was just a boy. It was restored in 2011 by the StAndrews Links Trust, back to its original walls and flooring. Today, the shop is operated by The R&A and offers Open Championship merchandise. The 18th Green Shop also has a rich history, operating formerly as the Professional’s Shop and Caddie Shack for the Old Course. In 2022 it became an exclusive TravisMathew outlet, stocking StAndrews Links and TravisMathew lifestyle and golf apparel and accessories.
Since the 1970s, the Trust’s retail offerings have grown greatly with five stores now operating across the Links. In 2024, the Eden Clubhouse shop was reopened after a long hiatus, providing more choice for both local and visiting golfers.
THE GOLF ACADEMY
Since 1974, there has been nothing less than a golf technology revolution and the StAndrews Links Golf Academy today offers locals and visitors alike the latest game improvement cutting edge technology.
Around 1989, a driving range for the StAndrews links was proposed and opened in 1993 by British Ladies’ Champion, Catriona Lambert. This facility was further extended in 2006 and opened by R&A Chief Executive Peter Dawson.
In Tom Morris’ day, golfers barely took a swing before driving off, but attitudes to practice and fitness have dramatically changed. Today, StAndrews’ world class golf academy has some of the finest practice and game improvement facilities in the country, including lessons, group sessions and putting classes. 1993
Great golf stems from pairing sound fundamentals and concepts throughout your game with a sensible course strategy. Learning to get the best out of yourself on one of our courses at StAndrews Links may be closer than you think.”
Scott Wilson, Senior Instructor at StAndrews Links Golf Academy
Facilities
- World class instruction
- Cutting edge technology
- 60 flood-lit bays
- 22 indoor bays
- Short game area
- Toptracer Range
Players can visit the StAndrews Links Golf Academy and get Custom Fit, so that they are playing the best clubs for their game. With the very latest launch monitor tools and OptiFit Technology, the team will provide the best club-fitting specifications. It is also the site for the Callaway Performance Centre for Scotland.
Practice facilities in StAndrews were limited in years gone by with only small areas set aside, including behind the 17th hole.
The world of golf has evolved incredibly over the last 50 years. When the StAndrews Links Trust was created in 1974, they could barely have imagined what golfers of the future would enjoy.
Toptracer
With advancements in technology, Toptracer can provide instant feedback to shot distance and direction.
Digital V1 Pro
Swing analysis provides the perfect feedback and steps needed to be a better golfer. Digital V1 Pro is used by tour players and amateurs alike.
SAM PuttLab
With ultrasound measurements, this putting facility helps golfers perfect their stroke.
Boditrak Pressure Mat
Balance is the key to a good and repetitive swing. The Boditrak Pressure Mat analyses this and weight transfer during a swing.
At the StAndrews Links Academy, shot analysis can be recorded on phones, offering instant feedback. With every element of the game covered, practising at golf has never been so effective … or fun.
World class practice facilities at the StAndrews Links Golf Academy.
COMMUNITY
In the days of yore, StAndrews had one lone keeper of the green, whose remit was to dig a fresh hole for autumn and spring meetings. The StAndrews Links Trust of today is very different and plays a very active role in StAndrews life. Free golf tuition to the town’s young golfers, recycling food waste, turning on festive Christmas lights, tourism infrastructure and cleaning the litter from the West Sands beach are just some of the local activities of the Trust.
StAndrews Links Junior Golf Association (SALJGA)
In 1974, there were few options for junior golfers to improve their golf in the StAndrews area. SALJGA was created by the Trust in 2001 to attract more local youngsters to the game of golf and to teach them the fundamental skills of the game. Today, more than 2,000 children have benefitted from the programme, some who have become national champions and participated in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.
As of 2024, SALJGA boasts a total of 331 members, aged between 5 and 18, who are either residents in StAndrews or pupils at one of the schools within the town. Over 100 of these members are female. The lasting legacy of SALJGA is a whole generation of children who have been given the opportunity to play the game of golf and had lots of fun doing so.
StAndrews Community Trust
Since 2010, the Links Trust has worked with StAndrews Community Council to distribute funds generated through the protection and exploitation of trademarks associated with the StAndrews names and the town crest of the Royal Burgh. Many local projects have received vital support thanks to this initiative and over £1.2 million has been donated since the inception of the Trust.
SUSTAINABILITY
The total land the Trust protects is 370 hectares, including 120 hectares of natural land comprised of sand dunes, wild coastal grassland, wildflower meadow, bare sand, heathland, and native woodland. These hectares provide habitat for various animals, including 529 wildlife species, 47 of which are protected species.
Coastal Management
Coastal erosion has posed challenges to the links at StAndrews for centuries. In the days of Old Tom Morris, the first fairway lay just 30 feet from the sea, with beach sand and seaweed often thrown up onto the course during storms. To protect the links land, construction of a coastal barrier began in 1893 and would become the Bruce Embankment we know today. When StAndrews Links Trust took over the management of the links in 1974, work was undertaken almost immediately to manage several issues posed to the coastline of the historic links.
In 2011, StAndrews Links became the first Open Championship venue to achieve the prestigious GEO Certified™ ecolabel in recognition of a long-term commitment to sustainability.
Construction of the Bruce Embankment.
These works have continued over the past 50 years and the Trust, working with local groups such as Fife Coast and Countryside Trust, has undertaken significant dune restoration work on the West Sands, amounting to the largest and longest-running dune restoration programme in Scotland.
A testament to the incredible work that continues to take place, StAndrews Links Trust won the prestigious Best Sustainability Project Award at the 2024 Scottish Golf Tourism Awards, recognising its impact across the sustainable golf framework, fostering nature, conserving resources, taking climate action, and strengthening communities.
West Sands Rangers
Working with local groups such as Fife Coast and Countryside Trust, the Links Trust helps manage and protect the Eden Estuary and historic West Sands. Activities include gabions to protect against coastal erosion, community beach cleans, and planting marram grasses to bind dunes. In 2022, the West Sands Rangers Service was created to ensure the dunes were cared for and their longevity ensured.
In 2023 alone, the team led 20 sand dune enhancement projects, resulting in 22,000 cubic metres of new dune in the 2022/23 data collection period.
The Kestrel Project
In 2019, the Castle Course greenkeepers took steps to protect and improve kestrel numbers in the area, which had recently dropped by 80 per cent. The Kestrel Project was recognised as the Ecological Project of the Year at the 2023 Golf Environment Awards after an incredible 24 kestrels were fledged over a four-year period.
Bee Protection
Another of the Trust’s initiatives protects local bee populations by encouraging wildflowers, leaving habitat areas uncut, installing new habitat areas, and introducing new bumblebees to the Links. In return, the bees pollinate the flowering plants that ensure the courses thrive, both practically and visually.
Bluewater
StAndrews Links Trust recently partnered with Bluewater to supply purer, healthier water in a sustainable manner. This initiative reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility and health. Bluewater’s advanced systems have been installed across the site, ensuring easy access to high quality water for everyone.
This collaboration not only enhances the experience of visitors and staff but also significantly reduces ecological footprint by minimising the use of single-use plastics and promoting a greener, more sustainable approach to hydration.
Scottish Golf Tourism Awards 2024 - Best Sustainability Project.
TOURNAMENTS
THE OPEN
The Open started in 1860 to find out who was the new Champion Golfer. The event first came to StAndrews in 1873, when it was won by local Tom Kidd. Since then, The Open has returned to StAndrews 30 times.
From the quiet Opens of Tom Morris, with professionals fitting in amongst the local play at Prestwick, to modern times with over 4.7 million people watching Cameron Smith’s victory in 2022, The Open has become one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
With tens of thousands of visitors walking the links each day of Open week including practice days, the Trust works closely with the R&A Championship Committee to ensure a successful and vibrant event when it comes to the Old Course.
Since 1974, when the StAndrews Links Trust took over the management of the links, The Open Championship has entered a new digital revolution. Everything from electric power and maintaining the links to live broadcasts and social media updates are all controlled digitally.
It is a world away from the Trust’s first Open in 1978 with the likes of Nicklaus and a young Seve, when weather was gauged by looking up and a watch told you the time, not the distance to the hole.
As The Open has grown, so too has StAndrews and its ability to successfully manage major events including The AIG Women’s Open, The Walker Cup and the Alfred Dunhill Links.
WOMEN’S OPEN
Winners Lorena Ochoa (top) and Stacy Lewis.
In 2024, the Old Course played host to the Women’s Open for the third time, with Lydia Ko (right) adding her name to the history books at the Home of Golf.
StAndrews Links Trust was established two years prior to the inaugural Ladies’ British Open in 1976 and was established to not only preserve the historic Links for future generations but to also advance participation in golf.
Since 1974, there has been enormous progress in the development of women’s golf which is greatly welcomed and supported by StAndrews Links.
The Trust has demonstrated throughout its history that golf is a sport accessible to everyone, regardless of gender, age or background, and events like this serve as a powerful reminder of the progress that continues to be made.
One month, two gold medals. A Golden August for Lydia Ko.
ALFRED DUNHILL CUP & LINKS CHAMPIONSHIP
The Alfred Dunhill Cup was first competed in 1985 as a team event, approved on the European Tour, hosted each year on the Old Course at StAndrews until the turn of the millennium.
In 2001, the tournament was reformed as the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship and has become a unique celebration of links golf that takes place annually over three of Scotland’s most historic, scenic, and challenging courses, including the Old Course at StAndrews Links, Kingsbarns Golf Links, and Carnoustie Golf Links. The popular competition is the only professional event staged at StAndrews every year.
For players and spectators alike, the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship is one of the highlights of the DP World Tour, as well as of the StAndrews Links calendar.
Nick Faldo holing a putt in the Dunhill Cup.
Matt Fitzpatrick and mother Susan celebrate victory at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.
WALKER CUP
In 2023, the Walker Cup returned to the Old Course for the first time since 1975, seeing the top male amateur golfers in Great Britain & Ireland and the United States compete over the historic links. This marked the ninth playing of the Walker Cup at the Old Course since its inception, more than any other venue in the tournament’s history, and the centenary of the match.
The biennial match is considered by some as the pinnacle of men’s amateur golf and many of the game’s greatest players including Bobby Jones and Sir Michael Bonallack have featured in memorable matches played over the Old Course at StAndrews.
CURTIS CUP
In 2008, the Curtis Cup travelled to the Old Course for the very first time since its inception in 1932.
The event attracted 14,000 spectators over the three days to support both teams, many of the players playing the Old Course for the first time.
The visitors ran home 13-7 victors, with 23-year-old Stacy Lewis winning all five of her matches, the first American to achieve this feat in the event. Although a disappointing result for the GB&I team, there was local success as StRegulus Club life member Krystle Caithness and Sally Watson from Elie both took three points from their matches and were the team’s top scorers.
ST ANDREWS LINKS TOURNAMENTS
StAndrews Links Trophy
Created in 1989, the StAndrews Links Trophy has attracted the world’s top amateur golfers, including the likes of Rory McIlroy, Justin Rose, Ernie Els and Scotland’s very own Robert MacIntyre. The tournament sees elite amateur players from across the globe compete at the Home of Golf, with one round on either the New or Jubilee Course, followed by three rounds on the Old Course.
The Links Trophy is one of the highest ranked amateur events by the R&A World Amateur Golf Rankings (WAGR). In 2023, the R&A announced that the StAndrews Links Trophy was to be one of three events included in their ‘The Open Amateur Series’. The player that receives the most WAGR points across the three events is awarded a spot in that year’s Open Championship, further highlighting the prestige of the StAndrews Links Trophy.
Calum Scott, Links Trophy. 2024
Past Winners
2024 Seb Cave, Coxmoor Golf Club 281
2023 Alex Maguire, Laytown & Bettystown 266
2022 Connor McKinney, Australia 272
2021 Jack Cope (play-off), The Players Club 280
2020 Not played
2019 Jake Burnage, Saunton 268
2018 John Murphy, Kinsale 278
2017 Matthew Jordan, Royal Liverpool 277
2016 Conor O’Rourke, Naas 275
2015 Federico Zucchetti, Italy 214 (54 holes)
2014 Grant Forrest (play-off), Craigielaw 278
2013 Neil Raymond, Corhampton 282
2012 Daan Huizing, Netherlands 264
2011 Tom Lewis, Welwyn Garden City 279
2000 Matthew Southgate, Thorpe Hall 275
2009 Alan Dunbar, Rathmore 285
2008 Keir McNicoll, Carnoustie 283
2007 Llewellyn Matthews, Southerndown 273
2006 Oliver Fisher, West Essex 280
2005 Lloyd Saltman, Craigielaw 275
2004 Jamie McLeary, Leven 284
2003 Richard Finch, Hull 276
2002 Simon Mackenzie, West Linton 289
2001 Steven O’Hara, Colville Park 281
2000 Matthew King, Toft Hotel 140*
1999 David Patrick, Mor tonhall 152*
1998 Craig Watson, East Renfrewshire 276
1997 Justin Rose, North Hants 284
1996 Barclay Howard, Cochrane Castle 282
1995 Graham Rankin, Palacerigg 276
1994 Barclay Howard, Cochrane Castle 294
1993 Garry Hay, Downfield 280
1992 Craig Watson, East Renfrewshire 281
1991 Ricky Willison, Ealing 289
1990 Stuart Bouvier, Australia 280
1989 Russell Claydon, Gog Magog 284
* Due to inclement weather, the 1999 and 2000 events were reduced to a 36-hole championship
StRule Trophy
In 1982, Christo Douglas, a former Captain and Chair of StRule Club, wished to hold an event that celebrated excellence in women’s amateur golf. Initially a 36-hole event, with players like Catriona Matthew and Annika Sorenstam taking part, it has become a 54-hole contest today, with 36 holes on the New Course on Saturday and final rounds on the Old Course on Sunday.
The inaugural tournament was played on 2nd June 1984 with a strong entry including the entire US Curtis Cup team and the trophy being won by one of its members, Penny Hammel. As the reputation of the tournament grew, StAndrews Links agreed to take over the management of the event with assistance from St Rule volunteers.
It is now one of the leading amateur tournaments in Britain, attracting international entry and, as of 2024, is included in the R&A’s ‘The AIG Women’s Open Amateur Series’.
Past Winners
2024 Elice Fredriksson (Sweden) 211
2023 Patience Rhodes (England) 212
2022 Jennifer Saxton (Scotland) 217
2021 Hannah Darling (Scotland) 208
2020 Not played
2019 Hazel MacGarvie (Scotland) 208
2018 Lianna Bailey (England) 214
2017 Clara Young (Scotland) 210
2016 Pauline Roussin-Bouchard (France) 213
2015 Aditi Ashok (India) 216
2014 Jessica Meek (Scotland) 213 (play-off)
2013 Ailsa Summers (Scotland) 211
2012 Laura Murray (Scotland) 220
2011 Ashley Ona (Australia) 73 (reduced to 18 holes)
2010 Laura Murray (Scotland) 221 (play-off)
2009 Kylie Walker (Scotland) 218
2008 Kylie Walker (Scotland) 148 (reduced to 36 holes)
2007 Melissa Reid (England) 209
2006 Krystle Caithness (Scotland) 216
2005 Naomi Edwards (England) 225
2004 Louise Stahle (Sweden) 141 (reduced to 36 holes)
2003 Karen Borjeskog (Sweden) 217
2002 Heather Sitlring (Scotland) 218
2001 Alison Coffey (Ireland) 221
2000 Vikki Laing (Scotland) 153 (reduced to 36 holes)
1999 Lesley Nicholson (Scotland) 227
1998 Nuris Clau (Spain) 154 (reduced to 36 holes)
1997 Kim Rostron (England) 217
1996 Anne Laing (Scotland) 227
1995 Maria Hjorth (Sweden) 220
1994 Catriona Matthew (Scotland) 217
1993 Catriona Lambert (Scotland) 215
1992 Morag Wright (Scotland) 222
1991 Alison Rose (Scotland) 237
1990 Annika Sorenstam (Sweden) 228
1989 Christine Middleton (Scotland) 232
1988 Christine Middleton (Scotland) 152 (36 hole competition)
1987 Joanne Morley (England) 153 (36 hole competition)
1986 Tracey Hammond (England) 153 (36 hole competition)
1985 Kathryn Imrie (Scotland) 151 (36 hole competition)
1984 Penny Hammel (USA) 149 (36 hole competition)
Elice Fredriksson, StRule trophy winner.
StAndrews Links Collegiate
In 2023, StAndrews Links Trust added a new tournament to the annual golf calendar: the StAndrews Links Collegiate, the first-ever college golf event hosted at StAndrews Links.
The inaugural event featured men’s and women’s golf teams with two days of stroke play on the Jubilee Course followed by a day of match play on the historic Old Course. The event marked the first time a televised event had been staged on the Jubilee Course at StAndrews Links.
The tournament returned for a second year in 2024, with the hometown University of StAndrews competing.
Ollie George of the University of StAndrews tees off in the 2024 StAndrews Links Collegiate.
StAndrews Junior Ladies’ Open
This wonderful tournament was created in 1989 to match the Boys’ Open. It is for girls under 23 and handicap less than 28.4. With 80 places, it has a global appeal, with many of the competitors going on to have successful amateur and professional careers.
StAndrews Boys’ Open
This event, which has run since 1948, is for golfers under the age of 18 and handicap 12.4. There are 150 spaces, and there are scratch and handicap prizes. Past winners include Matt Fitzpatrick, winner of the 2022 US Open.
Eden Tournament
This is one of the oldest and most popular amateur golf events in history. Started over 100 years ago in 1919, the Eden Tournament is enjoyed by locals and golfers from all over the globe. After a qualifying round on the New and Eden Courses, there is match play on the Eden Course for both handicap and scratch golfers. The event has 240 entrants, with handicaps not exceeding 15.4, who play for the Eden Trophy, which was presented by the old town council, The Duke of York Cup, presented by the Duke in 1933, (who became HRH King George VI in 1937), and the Victory Cup, presented in 1919 by The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of StAndrews Captain, Lieutenant Colonel Bethune.
Strathtyrum Tournament
This event was created in 1989 to offer ladies the chance of competing in their own Eden Tournament. They play for the Strathtyrum Trophy over 36-hole qualifying rounds on the New and Eden, before the match play finals on the Eden for both scratch and handicap golfers. With 102 places, it is open to those with a handicap sub-28.4. The trophy is presented by the Cheape family, owners of the Strathyrum Estate and with historic connections to StAndrews Links.
Boyd Quaich Memorial Golf Tournament
This event is open to students from all over the world and is hosted by the University of StAndrews. Players play on both the Old and the New over three days and enjoy access to the R&A clubhouse. The event was named after Quentin Douglas Boyd and Anthony Persse Boyd, students of the University of StAndrews, who were both killed in action in World War II. The winner is the lowest aggregate score over the four rounds.
THE 50TH YEAR OF ST ANDREWS LINKS TRUST
The 50th anniversary of StAndrews Links Trust proved to be another historic year at the Home of Golf. From implementing sustainability initiatives to hosting major championship golf, and welcoming golfers from over 65 different countries, 2024 was a year to remember at the Links.
In early 2024, the Singles Daily Draw was introduced to eliminate the need for overnight queues or queuing on the day of play for single golfers looking to play the Old Course. The digital solution instead allocates tee times through a randomised draw, conducted digitally, providing a fair and efficient process for all participants.
In Spring, the Trust was awarded the accolade of Sustainable Project of the Year at the 2024 Scottish Golf Tourism Awards, recognising the holistic approach to sustainable practices, in particular the focus on dune restoration and wildlife conservation. The following month, land from Easter Kincaple Farm, which sits adjacent to the western extremity of the Links, was acquired as part of ongoing sustainability and coastal management activity.
The inaugural ‘Old Course Reversed’ event was held in 2024, with golfers given the opportunity to play the Old Course in its historic clockwise routing – playing from the first tee to the 17th green and continuing in the ‘reverse’ order of what we know today. The event proved to be a brilliant success with 591 golfers playing the historic routing of golf’s most iconic course.
The Summer months saw the publishing of the Trust’s Annual Report & Accounts, showing a record year for 2023, with unprecedented demand and revenue across the golf courses and facilities. In total, 283,082 rounds were played across the seven courses, 7.6m balls hit at the Golf Academy, and record revenue figures of £44m generated.
Opened in 2021, Pilmour House is the office for over 50 employees and has won multiple architectural awards.
Major Championship golf returned to StAndrews in August with the third staging of the AIG Women’s Open at the Old Course. Just three weeks on from winning gold in the Paris Olympic Games, Lydia Ko came from behind to take victory by one stroke, providing a brilliant conclusion to the championship despite challenging conditions.
The Links Trust continued to reinvest into the site throughout 2024 with a fifth on-site retail store added to the existing retail offerings at the Links, providing more choice for both local and visiting golfers, including course merchandise for the Eden, Strathtyrum, and Balgove. The addition of the store formed part refurbishment of the Eden Clubhouse that originally opened in March 2000.
In October, a planning application was made to extend and upgrade the Links Clubhouse to help boost customer experience, with the planned introduction of a new cafe and external seating area, refurbished locker rooms, extended retail footprint and the addition of a dedicated golf bag drop area. It is hoped work will begin on the Links Clubhouse in 2025.
Investments were also being made to continue the digital transformation across the Links, including the delivery of a new booking system in November and trials of a new Home of Golf app in December.
Longer-term projects being looked at by the Links Trust include a multi-year upgrade of irrigation systems across all courses, extensions and upgrades to the Golf Academy, and investigations into the feasibility of renovating The Castle Course to open all year round.
As custodians of the Links, StAndrews Links Trust is committed to enhancing the site for current golfers and visitors to the Links, as well as maintaining and protecting the site for future generations for the next 50 years and beyond.
Artistic impressions of proposed Links Clubhouse upgrades.
