St Andrews Links Blog

Tournament preparation

It looks like a busy couple of weeks ahead for the dedicated Links greenkeeping teams!

St Rule Trophy

Starting this weekend we see the annual tournament season kick off with the St Rule Trophy on Saturday (June 1st). The Ladies’ event brings the top amateurs from across the world to compete. One round will be played on the Tom Morris designed New Course with the final two rounds played out on the Old Course on Sunday.

Our greenstaff will be busy building up to the weekend with preparations on-going to get the surfaces into pristine condition. One of the main operations will be the handmowing of greens to refine putting surfaces.

Staffing

During tournaments we utilise staff from our other courses to allow us to complete the preparation on the tournament course well in advance of play commencing. This will mean early starts for the greenkeepers to allow full presentation and cutting to take place ahead of the 7am first tee time.

St Andrews Links Trophy

The following weekend sees our leading Mens’ amateur event take place on the Jubilee and Old Courses on Friday, Saturday & Sunday. The St Andrews Links Trophy continues to grow in stature and this year sees the cut off handicap at +3.1, so no chance I will be playing!

Preparation will commence from early in the week when work will be carried out to further refine playing surfaces, shape up the bunkers and of course, set those all important testing pin positions.

So a busy time ahead for all concerned. Good luck to all the competitors and hopefully the conditions won’t be too testing.

The St Rule Trophy takes place 1-2 June and St Andrews Links Trophy 7-9 June. Spectators are welcome. For more information visit our website.

 

Words by Gordon McKie, Course Manager – Old Course