MINI golfers from all over the world have gathered in East Lothian for the most prestigious junior competition in Europe.
Despite many being shorter than a putter the youngsters will take on some of Scotland’s toughest courses.
Among those hotly tipped as a star of the future is seven-year-old Aarav Shah who flew in from Melbourne.
The youngest player is six-year-old Matilda Modesti from Rome who is hoping to card an under par score.
In total 604 tiny golfers from 43 nations as far afield as Kazakhstan, Nigeria, Thailand and Puerto Rico will take part in the U.S. Kids Golf European Championships.
They will play on five famous courses including those at Gullane Golf Club – which will hosts golf’s biggest names during the Scottish Open in a few weeks time.
Aarav’s mother (and caddie), Farah said: “It is a long way to come but Aarav was determined to come to Scotland.
“It is a big personal and financial commitment for me and my husband, but Aarav loves the game and he is starting to emerge as a talented player in his age group.
“He knows playing a traditional links course in typical windy Scottish weather will be a real test but he’s so delighted to be In Scotland.”
She added: “And I’ve already told my husband that if Aarav keeps progressing the way he has been, he can forget about retiring early as we’ll need plenty more years of him supporting our son’s golf career.”
Dan Van Horn, President and founder of U.S. Kids Golf, said: “The enthusiasm and skills on show at the championships is always second to none, evident in the incredible scores that have been recorded in past years.”
Gullane Golf Club Professional Alasdair Good, added: “There’s no doubt there will be added interest and excitement as the young players get a chance to say they will be playing in a tournament that hosts one of the best events on the European Tour.
“With world No 1 Rory McIIroy, and the likes of superstars Phil Mickelson, Justin Rose and Matt Kuchar, as well as home favourite Stephen Gallacher, all confirmed for the Scottish Open, it can only significantly boost the profile of East Lothian in the minds of these young players.”
U.S. Kids Golf European Championships takes places over May 26-28.
The top finishers in each category will compete in the Van Horn Cup at Luffness New
